Datasets:

---

innovation-hacking2

/

shitposting_dataset2

like 0

[ "/u/ToppedYaByAccident (OP) has awarded 2 delta(s) in this post.\nAll comments that earned deltas (from OP or other users) are listed here, in /r/DeltaLog.\nPlease note that a change of view doesn't necessarily mean a reversal, or that the conversation has ended.\n^Delta System Explained ^| ^Deltaboards", ">\n\nYou’re not accounting for the self-fulfilling prophecy effect. It’s not just that tall men with deep voices are unconsciously taken more seriously and regarded as leaders; it’s also that, as these men are growing up, they notice that and begin to regard themselves as leaders in turn. \nSo, as a confounding factor for your two statistical arguments, which only can illustrate data trends, not explain them, one could add: short men with higher-pitched voices are less likely to be leaders because they have been less likely to be regarded as leaders by others and so they don’t come to regard themselves as that as frequently as tall, lower-pitched voice men do. \nIf you account for the feedback between self-regard and other-regard, you can’t just unambiguously separate “quality” from bias; it turns out that people who fit the natural bias are those who come to possess the qualities in question.", ">\n\nBut as you said, they notice these things, which means that their parents and peers are perpetuating these biases, right?", ">\n\nSure, but my underlying point is that you can’t reduce the bias to merely a matter of people’s primitive preferences at work. Rather, the bias is corroborated by its producing the kind of people who conform to it upon noticing its working in their favor. This means that even if you could convince people to recognize the bias as primitive, an evolutionary hand-me-down, it wouldn’t really matter. The choice of tall, deep voiced people would still find corroboration as a good one because those people are the ones who’ve come to regard themselves as leaders and to exhibit the traits of leadership just as a matter of habit.\nIf it sounds like the argument is circular, it is, but that’s a generic figure of how social facts work. Their arbitrariness (e.g., we could live in a world where short kings lead, idk) has to do with them having their basis in custom, which, in turn, has to do with them having held true in the choice. The basis in custom lends them objectivity as “facts,” where objectivity means that they hold true at the population-level, such as your statistics illustrate.", ">\n\nI understand that teaching people that these biases are primitive may not work if the bias works in their favor. I may be splitting hairs and possibly speaking irrelevantly or getting too granular; a common saying is that everything must end.\nWhat if a man who has benefitted from these biases has children, but the children are mentally disabled? Or they're not tall and have high-pitched voices; wouldn't they want to subscribe to judging people based on quality, or would they wallow over that which worked for them but won't work for their children?\nI think you can break this thinking by telling people that genetics could and possibly will eventually \"break,\" and holding onto the ideas of what strong is will be of great detriment to them.But I may also be underestimating man's ego.", ">\n\nThat wouldn’t work because there would still be other corroborating reasons to believe that tall, deep-voiced men are good leaders: the strongest would be that statistically-speaking, they are, and so you’d be asking people to act against the evidence of their experience.\nAn alternative strategy wouldn’t be to try and contest a “social fact,” as that rarely work; rather, it’s to offer a different interpretation of existing social practices, so as to make them legible as acts of leadership. \nSocial movements have taken that tack in the past, by the way. “Servant leadership,” “horizontal leadership,” “leading with kindness,” etc, are interpretations of behavior that, in the past, wouldn’t have been recognized as styles of leadership. Then, once you have a term, you can corroborate the effectiveness of the style through statistical analysis on the population level. That analysis would make salient features in individuals that would otherwise have been devalued as traits of a future leader: an instance of this would be how we now value (largely in women) a warmer interpersonal style, one that solicits feedback from everyone, as a leadership trait, albeit for a different style of leadership than that expected of deep-voiced, tall men.\nSo, what the short kings and their advocates need to do is: (1) offer an interpretation of a behavior the kings already practice that construes it as a leadership trait; (2) demonstrate through quantitative analyses that the trait yields benefits consistently, that is, on a population level; (3) correlate those results to traits that the individuals possess that would explain the behavior. I don’t speak for the kings, though, as I’m 6’ 1” …", ">\n\nHow do you propose we change human nature?\nWhy would you want your view changed to appearance and vocal tone should be a major factor in deciding on leaders?\nOf course we shouldn't rely on those things, but we do because that's how human brains are wired to varying degrees for different individuals.", ">\n\nThank you for your reply.\nWe are aware that we think a certain way instinctually, and if we're aware of something, we can change our thinking through practice. Some of those practices are forced but lean on how our brain's first thoughts will lead to harm. My brain's wired to have sex with things, but I don't insert myself into or onto everything I can. I could catch a disease, start a relationship with someone psychotic, start an inappropriate relationship with someone \"younger,\" if you catch my drift, etc.\nMaybe I'm wrong, but these things don't happen because the experiences and behavioral optimizations created by others have taught me better. Our brains, in their original state, don't think that \"Character Counts,\" but elementary schools implemented that to teach us good character or attempt to.\nAs for your first question, I don't know honestly. I'll think about that.\nEdit: doo doo formatting lol", ">\n\nfirstly, you yourself invoke value in \"stronger\". A CEO is not valuable because of their strength. you seem to have fallen prey to the very idea you critique here. Perceived or real strength should not matter for a CEO (if it does, then you'd be in trouble because the actual correlations between height and strength are pretty real up until about 6'1, but even then a 6'3\" is going to be stronger than a 5'9\" person, on average - the correlation in strength increase relative to height increase decreases beyond 6'1ish.)\nsecondly, the practical requirement of a CEO to be a leader necessitates that they be able to lead in the context of the flawed humans who carry the ideas about height. I think you misrepresent the challenge here as a \"hiring problem\" when it's really a chicken and egg problem. That's not to say it's not a real problem, but in a crazy-world sense do you want to a hire a CEO that your people aren't going to follow? This isn't a great excuse, and therefore I agree with the \"should\" in a justice sense, but disagree in the pragmatic sense.", ">\n\nCould you elaborate on your final point, please? Specifically the first sentence?", ">\n\nThis might get removed, because it's not exactly a counter argument, but...\nIf you'd like to learn more about the history and development of good decision-making, I'd recommend looking into \"Choosing by Advantages\" by Jim Suhr, and \"Thinking Fast and Slow\" by Daniel Kahneman. In short, most people go through life using easy, instinctive decision making processes, rather than considering their lives and choices with a consistent process. This applies to everything from job selection to diet choice to the ballot box. It's no one's fault, there just hasn't been a sound, consistent, understandable decision making process for people to learn until very recently in history.", ">\n\nI actually find this to be a solid counter argument...could you please elaborate on why it's no one's fault though? \nAnd thank you for the book recs.", ">\n\nIt's \"no one's fault\" because most people aren't really aware that there are decision-making methods worth learning. A common response to Choosing by Advantages, for instance goes along the lines of \"I'm a successful person who has made important decisions for all of my life. Why do I need to learn this?\"\nThe bottom line is that decision-making needs to be learned from an early age, and parents or teachers often do their best to teach decision-making skills they way they learned and understand them. Many people, for instance, learn the idea of \"weighing pros and cons\" from an early age. Methods like these have had a lot of success, but have only recently been shown to introduce biases or mistakes, especially in more complicated decisions - where they're most heavily relied on. Choosing by Advantages represents an attempt to standardize decision-making terminology, and focus a person's mind on the importance of differences between alternatives. For instance, when choosing by pros and cons, you may end up with a list with \"low gas mileage\" on one side, and \"high gas mileage on the other.\" As Kahneman showed, this \"double counting\" will not only exaggerate the difference between two vehicles, it will actually introduce an aversion bias against the car with lower mileage.\nEven accounting for some of the more complex, somewhat successful decision-making methods, most people go through life relying mostly on their \"fast\" system (as Kahneman would say), which has evolved primarily to quickly identify threats. The fast system jumps to conclusions and activates reflexes to try to keep one safe. It's only by reexamining these reflexes with our \"slow\" system that most people can come to better conclusions, especially when complex social or monetary issues are involved. Many on the far right, for instance, value a certain kind of safety above all else. Safety for their culture or lifestyle can be their chief concern, above any regard for equality, or the safety of strangers. From this mindset, the \"fast\" system encourages them to support leaders who promise protection, whether physical, cultural, or \"moral.\" It would only be by engaging their \"slow\" systems and examining whether or not these leaders actually deliver on these promises (not to mention the much more difficult question of whether these promises are reasonable) that they may come to realize that different choices in leadership might result in better personal and global outcomes.\nEdit: a good concrete example would be Trump's promise to \"build a wall.\" People who support that concept are typically afraid of Mexican or South American immigration for one reason or another. They see the idea of a wall as a protection of their culture, livelihood, families, or a combination thereof. Promises from DC of \"immigration reform\" often don't sound concrete enough, and their \"fast\" systems don't take into account things like long term crime statistics, global politics, or long term economic outcomes in areas with or without immigration.", ">\n\nI don't mean to be off-topic with what I'm about to say. I want to respond to your example with the hope of drawing out more conversation and information.\nDoesn't conservatism eventually fail; it always felt like anti-progress, which isn't how America was made, right? We applied technologies and knowledge of different cultures to meet our goals and met them at fast rates.\nIn a way, the ideology or thinking, rather, that I'm against is conservative and almost anti-human progress. I can't counter the example of the fast and slow system. It doesn't completely eradicate my feelings toward what I've posted, but I still want to give you a Δ, or a half one (lol), because you make profound points about why we have these biases in the first place and why they're so difficult to change.\nSo Δ because of the paragraph about choosing advantages and how they permeate our thoughts and decision-making.\nSide note: Not sure if this is against the sub's rules, but even though I awarded a delta, I stand by my CMV and am open to more comments and opposition.", ">\n\nConfirmed: 1 delta awarded to /u/bug_the_bug (1∆).\n^Delta System Explained ^| ^Deltaboards", ">\n\nLeadership requires confidence. The people you described will likely be more self confident and this step up to the challenges of leadership more frequently. You are correct that these superficial characteristics don’t necessarily make these people better or more capable leaders but often they have much more practice in leadership roles that does make them at least somewhat more capable.", ">\n\nI think this touches on my point where I say that people with these characteristics get more opportunities and therefore, get more experience.", ">\n\nAppearance and vocal tone are a matter of opinion, but in my opinion, almost every US President in modern history was either funny-looking or had a weird voice, or both.", ">\n\nLMAO!! So you're saying they were \"distinct,\" looking more so than being tall and having a deep voice?", ">\n\nNo, \"~~district~~ distinct\" is not the word I would use to describe the appearance of most of them. Many of them were funny-looking, and the ones who weren't looked average. And most of the ones who looked average had weird voices.\nThere are maybe a few exceptions.", ">\n\nSorry, I think if you look again, my word was \"distiNCT\"", ">\n\nSorry, auto-correct error. \"Distinct\" is not the word that comes to mind when I look at our best-known leaders. I'll stick with \"funny-looking\"", ">\n\nThe truth is that most CEOs, elected officials, local leaders etc. are not really chosen by grassroots movements or meritocratic processes at all.\nCorporate ownership and leadership are often determined by nepotism and inheritance. Access to think tanks, campaign funds, and political “connections” are also skewed in favor of people who are already tapped into elite circles - consider legacy admissions at the Ivies and T10 law schools that produce the largest number of viable Presidential candidates in the US.\nGiven how strongly factors like height, race, biological sex etc. correlate with deterministic privilege, it’s not surprising that the candidates for such positions are overwhelmingly homogenous. Some people argue that we need to use representation and affirmative action to “correct” these imbalances but they’re also such deeply systemic issues that we need more than just a re-evaluation of leadership. The most reliably effective way of dismantling these imbalances is equal access to education and basic opportunities, as well as a genuine un-learning of unfounded cultural stigma vis à vis toxic masculinity at its roots.", ">\n\nJust so I'm not assuming, when you say \"these imbalances,\" are there imbalances that you're leaving out? I'd like to hear more of this view point.", ">\n\nMost of the factors that I mentioned were the ones that are outwardly perceptible in every person - but there are certainly many other subtle forms of privilege and disenfranchisement. \nTake nationality for example - the country of your birth and upbringing has such a colossal effect on your access to education, individual freedom, healthcare, and eventually, employment opportunities. Former colonial powers, their allies, and white settlements still control an obviously disproportionate level of the world’s wealth. The leadership composition of the largest MNCs, trade alliances etc. clearly reflect this. \nEven countries that seemingly broke through these constraints have tons of systemic discrimination within them. India has a caste system that made education, property ownership and generational wealth virtually impossible for a massive segment of the population until the 20th century - and it’s hardly gotten much better since then. The oligarchic tendencies of Tsarist Russia and the USSR have completely taken over in the post-Soviet era. China has pretty much the same problems in addition to being an information vacuum with dystopian government oversight. The political and financial leadership of these countries is leaning heavily into cronyism, nepotism and all-around corruption. I don’t think that any of these systemic issues are beyond saving, but they need to be addressed at the root level - we need to better equalize the baseline for everyone and install checks and balances that prevent corrupt incentives from taking hold of the economy and policy sphere.", ">\n\nDoesn't it matter how other people perceive our leaders, particularly our elected leaders? \nIf the data you provide is true, then wouldn't we want a president, for example, who can take advantage of this phenomenon? Certainly it is not the only metric of a good president, but it isn't like it is nothing either. You want foreign leaders to take the president seriously and this is a factor, right?", ">\n\nI do agree with you though I think there are some other factors that might need to be considered. In theory, I think some individuals conform to certain roles/occupations because of their appearance or physical attributes and so there are likely more candidates of that nature. And so even growing up, I never would have taken basketball seriously because I knew I wouldn't fit the bill. This is highly correlated in physical occupations and sports, like basketball, because as we know being larger or stronger has a perceived benefit in this domain. \nSo the ultimate question here is, does being larger or stronger make you a \"better\" leader? I think it does, but that's entirely based on innate primal instincts and our current social/cultural understanding of the world, as you've kind of suggested yourself. In individual circumstances, I would therefore say that if I was a chairman and could choose the next CEO of a company, it would be justified if physical appearance would be part of my criteria, because this may be strongly perceived by internal or external stakeholders and could yield additional positive effects.\nWhat you're effectively challenging is whether we should change societal standards such that all stakeholders in society don't consider physical demeanor a determinate factor in evaluating leadership. I think the vast majority of people would agree with you here, and I would too. But that would require unravelling years of history to the point where I'd say what you're advocating for is almost theoretical as opposed to practical.", ">\n\nThanks for your reply.\nWhen you said, \"it does,\" my mind went to a clip I watched when learning about the Andrew Tate phenomenon. He was boasting about his height and muscles and was talking about how people take him more seriously because of these things. \nAfter an hour of delving into that protein-powdered wormhole, I thought, \"wow, he's really just playing on everyone's instincts.\" \nAnother commenter made a great point that people are just following what benefits them, but how many great people are being tossed aside in favor of what we think are great leaders? Would Andrew Tate be possible with this thinking? Would Hustler's university exist? I think not.\nI think if Andrew Tate was 5 foot 3 inches and a flyweight kickboxing champion, he wouldn't be as popular as he is/was.", ">\n\n\nWhen you said, \"it does,\" my mind went to a clip I watched when learning about the Andrew Tate phenomenon. \nI think if Andrew Tate was 5 foot 3 inches and a flyweight kickboxing champion, he wouldn't be as popular as he is/was.\n\nExactly. I don't think Andrew Tate is a good person but his pure physical demeanor allows him to be perceived as confident, persuasive, etc., which allow him be effective at what he does, and in essence, a better leader for people that believe in him. And so I think it's fair to say that his physical demeanor, therefore, does make him become perceived as a better leader. And as a result of being perceived this way, that does make him a better leader by result.\nBy the way, I should clarify so that when I say \"better\" leader I don't mean if they are good or bad (Like how Hitler exuded very strong leadership characteristics but is undeniably a terrible person).", ">\n\nI think you may be disregarding the feedback loop of aesthetic advantage.\nIt's not just that people with these qualities pop into the world yesterday with a full spectrum of ability. People who have the aesthetic qualities associated with leadership- as shallow as they may be- don't just get assigned the CEO job out of the blue. As unfair as it may seem, they get thrust into places of authority early in life. The feedback loop is that early trust and respect gives them more confidence and more experience, and those qualities ARE important in leadership.\nThere was a great study a while back on hockey players in Canada. They found that an extraordinary number had birthdays clustered into the same few months. How could this be? It turned out to coincide with the cutoff for starting school. Kids who were at the older end of their grade level would be bigger and have better motor skills than their slightly younger peers. They would have more early success on the ice than their peers because of the advantage of a few months of age, so they would enjoy it more, practice more, be more likely to envision a future as a player. Parents and coaches would see that early success and dedication and funnel more energy into training those kids.\nBy the time they were grown, that few months of age meant nothing by itself, but it had started a cascade, in a fairly merit attuned system, which made them better hockey players.\nBecause of the month they were born in.\nSo even if the selection of CEOs and world leaders were done entirely blinded to height and tone of voice, I fully expect that most leadership would still have those qualities to some extent, because whatever biases make them preferred for leadership, likely actually made them better leaders.\nMaybe you could say we should rid the world of these biases at every level. I think that's a great ideal, but also a tall order. We've been trying to teach kids to \"never judge a book by it's cover\" for a long time now. And I suspect hammering it even harder would have the backlash effect that \"Just say no\" did. It's likely not a very moveable set of biases.", ">\n\nYeah you're quoting Malcolm Gladwell's Outliers, which is an excellent read.\nAnd man, you've almost changed my view, but I don't think we can accept that our biases can't be molded. It sounds live giving in and a shortcut from hard work, which is what our society preaches; to think hard and work hard to create a better world. That can't be done if we're handing out important roles to people that just \"look,\" the part.", ">\n\nI'm not as much saying our biases can't be molded.\nBut what I am saying is that aesthetic bias works in a broader, more systemic way that wouldn't be eliminated even by blinded voting and hiring.\nCertainly some things can be done to lessen the effect to some extent.\nBut if we get down to the roots of it, human's first experience of authority is their parents- who are much taller and deeper voiced than them. I don't think we'll erase the effects of the very earliest childhood experience.\nWe could compare it to other problems that are as baked in and systemic. Take for example, greed. I'm sure we can agree that greed is not a good thing (Unless you're Gordon Gekko). And we can have educational systems in place that seek to lessen greed and teach kids to be better. But we're not going to get rid of greed entirely. And if someone were to post a CMV that said \"We should get rid of greed\" I'm not sure how to even address that.", ">\n\nΔ! The parents being taller and deeper voiced, or more physically imposing is an EXCELLENT, excellent point. \nI still stand by my post but I will amend my future thoughts on this topic with this point. Thanks!!\nAnd love the Wall Street reference.", ">\n\nConfirmed: 1 delta awarded to /u/-paperbrain- (86∆).\n^Delta System Explained ^| ^Deltaboards", ">\n\nA leader isn't someone with a genius plan to increase revenue. It's someone who can command other people. A plan means nothing without execution, and coming up with plans is not leadership. Anyone can do that. In fact, being able to take in and enact other people's plans is a leadership skill", ">\n\nFair point. I didn't mean to say that's the only factor; my point was that what a smaller man/woman brings to the table will be overlooked. Height and a deep voice does not equal \"commanding.\"", ">\n\nI mean, you are saying here both that it's unfair that tall people with deep voices are universally automatically considered to be more \"commanding,\" and also that that exact qualities is important for leadership \nNot that it really matters because CEOs are bullshit jobs anyway, but if that's the argument on the table, let's go with it. If someone is naturally shy and an introvert, but otherwise has qualities that would potentially make them a good leader, that doesn't necessarily make up the difference", ">\n\nI think there’s a bit of mistranslation here. Forgive me if I’m wrong. I used height and voice pitch as examples but my overall point is the post title. \nWhy are CEOs bullshit jobs lol!? I don’t disagree that just really funny to read out loud and I’m curious of your thoughts there.", ">\n\nno, people with more money have a stable supply of food, which means they can grow taller, and healthier, you can see it in north Korea where they are all midgets because of food shortages for several generations\nif height was the factor the dutch would rule the world", ">\n\nBut how do you explain most of our world and corporate leaders being taller than the average person of their respective country? We want well-fed people in leadership positions?", ">\n\nbeing taller isn't the cause of leadership positions, its a symptom of being well fed for one / multiple generations, which correlates with being financially well off, which correlates with being able to provide proper education, which makes one more eligible for leadership positions, people in leadership positions tend to be well off, so their children tend to be well of, but they are now also connected to powerful people, which makes leadership positions more likely. \n​\nhow many ceo's have wealthy parents, i would bet that would also be above average", ">\n\nIf you are a 5 foot tall manlet super genius why wouldn't you want a 7 foot tall adonis to be the CEO fall guy of your company? People natutally trust him more than you and a big part of being CEO is just managing relationships and talking to other people. They don't actually have time to do any work or research their job is just to sell it in 99.9% of companies.", ">\n\nBut people naturally trusting him is based on what? Is it based on a higher-level of thinkin? And not having the time to do the work and research is the antithesis or making well-rounded decisions.", ">\n\nI think you are overestimating how smart the average person is and underestimating halo effect..\nThe taller people are at an advantage as people are more intimidated by the said person and strive to take their advice more seriously, and therefore have more productivity, which again creates an impression that they are better leaders.\nThough exceptions exist,and there are few short people who do command a strong presence, a tall man can and will exude a presence without even trying.", ">\n\nIt’s funny you say that…my Mom used to tell me, “you give ppl too much credit, son.”\nIt just seems like a sad and honestly unproductive way to live life. I can understand attraction to certain characteristics, but business, politics and organization, unless it’s vanity oriented, should be about critical thinking and production.\nIt’s also ironic that we have free will but some of us are slaves to our hindbrain.", ">\n\nI do agree with you for the most part. Though our primal instincts are there for a reason, evolution did not spend years ‘developing’ intuitive biases without good reason to do so. In a sense one should respect primal instinct as well, as there is fundamental truth in all instinct. I’m not disagreeing that we should attempt to be as objective as possible when determining leaders, but as a general stance instinct is not something to be overcome but vital.", ">\n\nI think the bigger problem is that there is no absolute truth.", ">\n\nunfortunately its really REALLY hard to shut down that part of our brain, and equally easy to trigger it. Unless you are specifially engaging with it in a way to mitigate it, Politics is marketing these days.", ">\n\nDo you think the primal instincts that we give into when voting may also be a factor that effects the way they are able to interact with other leaders? And thus remains an important factor to consider.", ">\n\nHow people feel about you is an inseparable part of leadership. Leaders lead people, not machines. Subjective, illogical elements have to come into play when leading subjective, illogical beings.\nDo you feel the same way about charisma as you do about height and vocal depth? \nSay a short, high-voiced person is very charismatic and rises to a position of leadership because if it. Would that situation be better than if they had gotten there on height and vocal depth?\nIf so, why? \nWhy does it matter whether it’s something that someone is, or something that someone does? \nBeing a leader is, in no small part, about being someone that people feel like following. Shouldn’t any unharmful ability or quality which make people feel comfortable with your leadership be considered a valid criterion for leadership potential?\nInevitably, because it involves humans, leadership relationships carry highly subjective and emotional components, which you seem to be throwing out completely, or expect can be easily rewritten.\n(Edit: am devil’s advocate).", ">\n\nRegarding your fifth paragraph: it sounds like meritocracy is a front then? \nCharisma isn’t a physical trait, so actually no I don’t. Charisma is important in leadership. Inspiring devotion can be learned. \nI don’t disagree with any of this, and while we’re not machines, there are people working in artificial intelligence that are creating automatons to eliminate human error.\nIn certain instances I think human error is important for personal growth, but being aware that a feeling is irrational or just a feeling, is something we all experience and we check ourselves.\nI’m sure our girlfriends and wives go outside and find other men attractive. They feel attraction, but do they act on it? We keep our feelings in check all the time; why do we give in in this case?", ">\n\nWhy is a physical trait less valid than charisma? \nThey both serve the same function, and neither makes you better at, say, planning, or any other practical part of leadership. They only serve to make people comfortable. Why does one being learnable matter? What’s wrong with simply being gifted?", ">\n\nI’m saying Charisma is not a physical trait at all. \nOne being learnable matters because it can be done consistently, while as the feeling based one will wane. If a man is not charismatic but invokes it in others through his physical traits, he will be exposed, eventually.\nAnyone can be, but not everyone can do." ]

[]

[ "Do a complete investigation, gather the evidence, follow all procedures and the law, seek justice without fear or favor no matter who is involved. Figure this mess out." ]

[ "Do a complete investigation, gather the evidence, follow all procedures and the law, seek justice without fear or favor no matter who is involved. Figure this mess out.", ">\n\nFully agree - and I'd actually like the investigation to be concluded swiftly since the ones being investigated will likely be 100% cooperative. It's not like DoJ will have to be dealing with full on liars and criminals which takes forever to find the answers." ]

[ "Do a complete investigation, gather the evidence, follow all procedures and the law, seek justice without fear or favor no matter who is involved. Figure this mess out.", ">\n\nFully agree - and I'd actually like the investigation to be concluded swiftly since the ones being investigated will likely be 100% cooperative. It's not like DoJ will have to be dealing with full on liars and criminals which takes forever to find the answers.", ">\n\nI 100% agree that there ought to be a reasonable investigation into this but I do have to wonder if any of this matters at all given that Biden is currently the president and therefore has not only the right to have classified information but also the ability to declassify that information.\nNot trying to make excuses for the oversight (or lack thereof) of classified documents, but it seems to me as though this requires an investigation into how classified documents are handled during and after individuals have been given such status and after said status has lapsed.\nLet's be perfectly honest, if they had taken different actions on the first set of documents, we likely wouldn't even know about this because there was nobody searching for them.\nHad Biden and his lawyers actually been seriously corrupt, they could easily have disposed of them in a fireplace or down a toilet and no one would know the better.\nThe fact that they brought this directly to the attention of the proper authorities is at least proof that they do have respect for the rule of law and are willing to except the consequences, even if it is going to be used to make political hay while the sun shines.\nThat said, this likely has huge implications for executive privilege, especially to the extent that the former president argued he had. I personally do not have a problem with the minister of th Office of the President being able to be held accountable for their actions but only if it is equally applied across the board and not just something that we will have to deal with when presidents from the Democratic party are being scrutinized." ]

[ "Do a complete investigation, gather the evidence, follow all procedures and the law, seek justice without fear or favor no matter who is involved. Figure this mess out.", ">\n\nFully agree - and I'd actually like the investigation to be concluded swiftly since the ones being investigated will likely be 100% cooperative. It's not like DoJ will have to be dealing with full on liars and criminals which takes forever to find the answers.", ">\n\nI 100% agree that there ought to be a reasonable investigation into this but I do have to wonder if any of this matters at all given that Biden is currently the president and therefore has not only the right to have classified information but also the ability to declassify that information.\nNot trying to make excuses for the oversight (or lack thereof) of classified documents, but it seems to me as though this requires an investigation into how classified documents are handled during and after individuals have been given such status and after said status has lapsed.\nLet's be perfectly honest, if they had taken different actions on the first set of documents, we likely wouldn't even know about this because there was nobody searching for them.\nHad Biden and his lawyers actually been seriously corrupt, they could easily have disposed of them in a fireplace or down a toilet and no one would know the better.\nThe fact that they brought this directly to the attention of the proper authorities is at least proof that they do have respect for the rule of law and are willing to except the consequences, even if it is going to be used to make political hay while the sun shines.\nThat said, this likely has huge implications for executive privilege, especially to the extent that the former president argued he had. I personally do not have a problem with the minister of th Office of the President being able to be held accountable for their actions but only if it is equally applied across the board and not just something that we will have to deal with when presidents from the Democratic party are being scrutinized.", ">\n\n\nhas not only the right to have classified information but also the ability to declassify that information.\n\nHe does. But apparently these docs were from his Vice Presidency under Obama. So, it's a bit uncertain.\nAnd it really undermines at least one of the central charges you could have lodged against Trump, that everyone that is able to access classified documents has a substantive responsibility to make sure they are handled appropriately. The \"oh, well, we had to leave in a hurry and things just got mixed up\" arguments Trump could have made before would have had little merit - especially when you consider previous historic cases where even a single doc mishandled ended up with someone in jail.\nBut now Trump will be able to dilute that charge completely. He's still fucked on obstruction and everything else (hopefully)." ]

[ "Do a complete investigation, gather the evidence, follow all procedures and the law, seek justice without fear or favor no matter who is involved. Figure this mess out.", ">\n\nFully agree - and I'd actually like the investigation to be concluded swiftly since the ones being investigated will likely be 100% cooperative. It's not like DoJ will have to be dealing with full on liars and criminals which takes forever to find the answers.", ">\n\nI 100% agree that there ought to be a reasonable investigation into this but I do have to wonder if any of this matters at all given that Biden is currently the president and therefore has not only the right to have classified information but also the ability to declassify that information.\nNot trying to make excuses for the oversight (or lack thereof) of classified documents, but it seems to me as though this requires an investigation into how classified documents are handled during and after individuals have been given such status and after said status has lapsed.\nLet's be perfectly honest, if they had taken different actions on the first set of documents, we likely wouldn't even know about this because there was nobody searching for them.\nHad Biden and his lawyers actually been seriously corrupt, they could easily have disposed of them in a fireplace or down a toilet and no one would know the better.\nThe fact that they brought this directly to the attention of the proper authorities is at least proof that they do have respect for the rule of law and are willing to except the consequences, even if it is going to be used to make political hay while the sun shines.\nThat said, this likely has huge implications for executive privilege, especially to the extent that the former president argued he had. I personally do not have a problem with the minister of th Office of the President being able to be held accountable for their actions but only if it is equally applied across the board and not just something that we will have to deal with when presidents from the Democratic party are being scrutinized.", ">\n\n\nhas not only the right to have classified information but also the ability to declassify that information.\n\nHe does. But apparently these docs were from his Vice Presidency under Obama. So, it's a bit uncertain.\nAnd it really undermines at least one of the central charges you could have lodged against Trump, that everyone that is able to access classified documents has a substantive responsibility to make sure they are handled appropriately. The \"oh, well, we had to leave in a hurry and things just got mixed up\" arguments Trump could have made before would have had little merit - especially when you consider previous historic cases where even a single doc mishandled ended up with someone in jail.\nBut now Trump will be able to dilute that charge completely. He's still fucked on obstruction and everything else (hopefully).", ">\n\nClassified != Compartmentalized, Top Secret, etc." ]

[ "Do a complete investigation, gather the evidence, follow all procedures and the law, seek justice without fear or favor no matter who is involved. Figure this mess out.", ">\n\nFully agree - and I'd actually like the investigation to be concluded swiftly since the ones being investigated will likely be 100% cooperative. It's not like DoJ will have to be dealing with full on liars and criminals which takes forever to find the answers.", ">\n\nI 100% agree that there ought to be a reasonable investigation into this but I do have to wonder if any of this matters at all given that Biden is currently the president and therefore has not only the right to have classified information but also the ability to declassify that information.\nNot trying to make excuses for the oversight (or lack thereof) of classified documents, but it seems to me as though this requires an investigation into how classified documents are handled during and after individuals have been given such status and after said status has lapsed.\nLet's be perfectly honest, if they had taken different actions on the first set of documents, we likely wouldn't even know about this because there was nobody searching for them.\nHad Biden and his lawyers actually been seriously corrupt, they could easily have disposed of them in a fireplace or down a toilet and no one would know the better.\nThe fact that they brought this directly to the attention of the proper authorities is at least proof that they do have respect for the rule of law and are willing to except the consequences, even if it is going to be used to make political hay while the sun shines.\nThat said, this likely has huge implications for executive privilege, especially to the extent that the former president argued he had. I personally do not have a problem with the minister of th Office of the President being able to be held accountable for their actions but only if it is equally applied across the board and not just something that we will have to deal with when presidents from the Democratic party are being scrutinized.", ">\n\n\nhas not only the right to have classified information but also the ability to declassify that information.\n\nHe does. But apparently these docs were from his Vice Presidency under Obama. So, it's a bit uncertain.\nAnd it really undermines at least one of the central charges you could have lodged against Trump, that everyone that is able to access classified documents has a substantive responsibility to make sure they are handled appropriately. The \"oh, well, we had to leave in a hurry and things just got mixed up\" arguments Trump could have made before would have had little merit - especially when you consider previous historic cases where even a single doc mishandled ended up with someone in jail.\nBut now Trump will be able to dilute that charge completely. He's still fucked on obstruction and everything else (hopefully).", ">\n\nClassified != Compartmentalized, Top Secret, etc.", ">\n\nI agree with you, but I was recently informed that sources say some of these classified documents were classified Top Secret.\nIt does appear as though ABC is confirming that sources are saying that some of these were top secret documents.\n\nSources also told ABC News that the original batch of about 10 documents found in November contains classified vice-presidential briefing papers about foreign countries, some of which were marked top secret.\n\nAnd CNN is not even using the journalistic term source, going so far as to assert that some of these documents were top secret.\n\nSome of the classified documents were “top secret,” the highest level. They were found in three or four boxes that also contained unclassified papers that fall under the Presidential Records Act, CNN has reported.\n\nIf we are going to maintain Integrity about the treatment of top secret classified documents, it is important to hold both sides accountable for their retention of documents.\nThank goodness that Biden's lawyers were up front with the FBI and NARA rather than lying about the retention of documents and obstructing an investigation.\nI really hope that Biden doesn't try to use the executive privilege argument to keep himself from investigation, but this is likely going to be a permanent stain on his reputation and definitely opens up the presidential field in the Democratic Party for 2024." ]

[ "Do a complete investigation, gather the evidence, follow all procedures and the law, seek justice without fear or favor no matter who is involved. Figure this mess out.", ">\n\nFully agree - and I'd actually like the investigation to be concluded swiftly since the ones being investigated will likely be 100% cooperative. It's not like DoJ will have to be dealing with full on liars and criminals which takes forever to find the answers.", ">\n\nI 100% agree that there ought to be a reasonable investigation into this but I do have to wonder if any of this matters at all given that Biden is currently the president and therefore has not only the right to have classified information but also the ability to declassify that information.\nNot trying to make excuses for the oversight (or lack thereof) of classified documents, but it seems to me as though this requires an investigation into how classified documents are handled during and after individuals have been given such status and after said status has lapsed.\nLet's be perfectly honest, if they had taken different actions on the first set of documents, we likely wouldn't even know about this because there was nobody searching for them.\nHad Biden and his lawyers actually been seriously corrupt, they could easily have disposed of them in a fireplace or down a toilet and no one would know the better.\nThe fact that they brought this directly to the attention of the proper authorities is at least proof that they do have respect for the rule of law and are willing to except the consequences, even if it is going to be used to make political hay while the sun shines.\nThat said, this likely has huge implications for executive privilege, especially to the extent that the former president argued he had. I personally do not have a problem with the minister of th Office of the President being able to be held accountable for their actions but only if it is equally applied across the board and not just something that we will have to deal with when presidents from the Democratic party are being scrutinized.", ">\n\n\nhas not only the right to have classified information but also the ability to declassify that information.\n\nHe does. But apparently these docs were from his Vice Presidency under Obama. So, it's a bit uncertain.\nAnd it really undermines at least one of the central charges you could have lodged against Trump, that everyone that is able to access classified documents has a substantive responsibility to make sure they are handled appropriately. The \"oh, well, we had to leave in a hurry and things just got mixed up\" arguments Trump could have made before would have had little merit - especially when you consider previous historic cases where even a single doc mishandled ended up with someone in jail.\nBut now Trump will be able to dilute that charge completely. He's still fucked on obstruction and everything else (hopefully).", ">\n\nClassified != Compartmentalized, Top Secret, etc.", ">\n\nI agree with you, but I was recently informed that sources say some of these classified documents were classified Top Secret.\nIt does appear as though ABC is confirming that sources are saying that some of these were top secret documents.\n\nSources also told ABC News that the original batch of about 10 documents found in November contains classified vice-presidential briefing papers about foreign countries, some of which were marked top secret.\n\nAnd CNN is not even using the journalistic term source, going so far as to assert that some of these documents were top secret.\n\nSome of the classified documents were “top secret,” the highest level. They were found in three or four boxes that also contained unclassified papers that fall under the Presidential Records Act, CNN has reported.\n\nIf we are going to maintain Integrity about the treatment of top secret classified documents, it is important to hold both sides accountable for their retention of documents.\nThank goodness that Biden's lawyers were up front with the FBI and NARA rather than lying about the retention of documents and obstructing an investigation.\nI really hope that Biden doesn't try to use the executive privilege argument to keep himself from investigation, but this is likely going to be a permanent stain on his reputation and definitely opens up the presidential field in the Democratic Party for 2024.", ">\n\nWhy would this be a permanent stain on Biden’s reputation?" ]

[ "Do a complete investigation, gather the evidence, follow all procedures and the law, seek justice without fear or favor no matter who is involved. Figure this mess out.", ">\n\nFully agree - and I'd actually like the investigation to be concluded swiftly since the ones being investigated will likely be 100% cooperative. It's not like DoJ will have to be dealing with full on liars and criminals which takes forever to find the answers.", ">\n\nI 100% agree that there ought to be a reasonable investigation into this but I do have to wonder if any of this matters at all given that Biden is currently the president and therefore has not only the right to have classified information but also the ability to declassify that information.\nNot trying to make excuses for the oversight (or lack thereof) of classified documents, but it seems to me as though this requires an investigation into how classified documents are handled during and after individuals have been given such status and after said status has lapsed.\nLet's be perfectly honest, if they had taken different actions on the first set of documents, we likely wouldn't even know about this because there was nobody searching for them.\nHad Biden and his lawyers actually been seriously corrupt, they could easily have disposed of them in a fireplace or down a toilet and no one would know the better.\nThe fact that they brought this directly to the attention of the proper authorities is at least proof that they do have respect for the rule of law and are willing to except the consequences, even if it is going to be used to make political hay while the sun shines.\nThat said, this likely has huge implications for executive privilege, especially to the extent that the former president argued he had. I personally do not have a problem with the minister of th Office of the President being able to be held accountable for their actions but only if it is equally applied across the board and not just something that we will have to deal with when presidents from the Democratic party are being scrutinized.", ">\n\n\nhas not only the right to have classified information but also the ability to declassify that information.\n\nHe does. But apparently these docs were from his Vice Presidency under Obama. So, it's a bit uncertain.\nAnd it really undermines at least one of the central charges you could have lodged against Trump, that everyone that is able to access classified documents has a substantive responsibility to make sure they are handled appropriately. The \"oh, well, we had to leave in a hurry and things just got mixed up\" arguments Trump could have made before would have had little merit - especially when you consider previous historic cases where even a single doc mishandled ended up with someone in jail.\nBut now Trump will be able to dilute that charge completely. He's still fucked on obstruction and everything else (hopefully).", ">\n\nClassified != Compartmentalized, Top Secret, etc.", ">\n\nI agree with you, but I was recently informed that sources say some of these classified documents were classified Top Secret.\nIt does appear as though ABC is confirming that sources are saying that some of these were top secret documents.\n\nSources also told ABC News that the original batch of about 10 documents found in November contains classified vice-presidential briefing papers about foreign countries, some of which were marked top secret.\n\nAnd CNN is not even using the journalistic term source, going so far as to assert that some of these documents were top secret.\n\nSome of the classified documents were “top secret,” the highest level. They were found in three or four boxes that also contained unclassified papers that fall under the Presidential Records Act, CNN has reported.\n\nIf we are going to maintain Integrity about the treatment of top secret classified documents, it is important to hold both sides accountable for their retention of documents.\nThank goodness that Biden's lawyers were up front with the FBI and NARA rather than lying about the retention of documents and obstructing an investigation.\nI really hope that Biden doesn't try to use the executive privilege argument to keep himself from investigation, but this is likely going to be a permanent stain on his reputation and definitely opens up the presidential field in the Democratic Party for 2024.", ">\n\nWhy would this be a permanent stain on Biden’s reputation?", ">\n\nBecause it will 100% be used along with whataboutism to suggest that Biden was going after Trump for the same thing that he was caught doing, regardless of the fact that Biden was not responsible for the investigation into Trump's documents has not been outspoken about the retention of documents, subsequent Lies by his lawyers, and obstruction.\nI'm not saying that it is going to be fair, or even rational but it is going to cause a stain and that will be used to pillory him." ]

[ "Do a complete investigation, gather the evidence, follow all procedures and the law, seek justice without fear or favor no matter who is involved. Figure this mess out.", ">\n\nFully agree - and I'd actually like the investigation to be concluded swiftly since the ones being investigated will likely be 100% cooperative. It's not like DoJ will have to be dealing with full on liars and criminals which takes forever to find the answers.", ">\n\nI 100% agree that there ought to be a reasonable investigation into this but I do have to wonder if any of this matters at all given that Biden is currently the president and therefore has not only the right to have classified information but also the ability to declassify that information.\nNot trying to make excuses for the oversight (or lack thereof) of classified documents, but it seems to me as though this requires an investigation into how classified documents are handled during and after individuals have been given such status and after said status has lapsed.\nLet's be perfectly honest, if they had taken different actions on the first set of documents, we likely wouldn't even know about this because there was nobody searching for them.\nHad Biden and his lawyers actually been seriously corrupt, they could easily have disposed of them in a fireplace or down a toilet and no one would know the better.\nThe fact that they brought this directly to the attention of the proper authorities is at least proof that they do have respect for the rule of law and are willing to except the consequences, even if it is going to be used to make political hay while the sun shines.\nThat said, this likely has huge implications for executive privilege, especially to the extent that the former president argued he had. I personally do not have a problem with the minister of th Office of the President being able to be held accountable for their actions but only if it is equally applied across the board and not just something that we will have to deal with when presidents from the Democratic party are being scrutinized.", ">\n\n\nhas not only the right to have classified information but also the ability to declassify that information.\n\nHe does. But apparently these docs were from his Vice Presidency under Obama. So, it's a bit uncertain.\nAnd it really undermines at least one of the central charges you could have lodged against Trump, that everyone that is able to access classified documents has a substantive responsibility to make sure they are handled appropriately. The \"oh, well, we had to leave in a hurry and things just got mixed up\" arguments Trump could have made before would have had little merit - especially when you consider previous historic cases where even a single doc mishandled ended up with someone in jail.\nBut now Trump will be able to dilute that charge completely. He's still fucked on obstruction and everything else (hopefully).", ">\n\nClassified != Compartmentalized, Top Secret, etc.", ">\n\nI agree with you, but I was recently informed that sources say some of these classified documents were classified Top Secret.\nIt does appear as though ABC is confirming that sources are saying that some of these were top secret documents.\n\nSources also told ABC News that the original batch of about 10 documents found in November contains classified vice-presidential briefing papers about foreign countries, some of which were marked top secret.\n\nAnd CNN is not even using the journalistic term source, going so far as to assert that some of these documents were top secret.\n\nSome of the classified documents were “top secret,” the highest level. They were found in three or four boxes that also contained unclassified papers that fall under the Presidential Records Act, CNN has reported.\n\nIf we are going to maintain Integrity about the treatment of top secret classified documents, it is important to hold both sides accountable for their retention of documents.\nThank goodness that Biden's lawyers were up front with the FBI and NARA rather than lying about the retention of documents and obstructing an investigation.\nI really hope that Biden doesn't try to use the executive privilege argument to keep himself from investigation, but this is likely going to be a permanent stain on his reputation and definitely opens up the presidential field in the Democratic Party for 2024.", ">\n\nWhy would this be a permanent stain on Biden’s reputation?", ">\n\nBecause it will 100% be used along with whataboutism to suggest that Biden was going after Trump for the same thing that he was caught doing, regardless of the fact that Biden was not responsible for the investigation into Trump's documents has not been outspoken about the retention of documents, subsequent Lies by his lawyers, and obstruction.\nI'm not saying that it is going to be fair, or even rational but it is going to cause a stain and that will be used to pillory him.", ">\n\nSo in essence, this is only going to be a stain in the minds of people who are rather brainless to begin with….gotcha" ]

[ "Do a complete investigation, gather the evidence, follow all procedures and the law, seek justice without fear or favor no matter who is involved. Figure this mess out.", ">\n\nFully agree - and I'd actually like the investigation to be concluded swiftly since the ones being investigated will likely be 100% cooperative. It's not like DoJ will have to be dealing with full on liars and criminals which takes forever to find the answers.", ">\n\nI 100% agree that there ought to be a reasonable investigation into this but I do have to wonder if any of this matters at all given that Biden is currently the president and therefore has not only the right to have classified information but also the ability to declassify that information.\nNot trying to make excuses for the oversight (or lack thereof) of classified documents, but it seems to me as though this requires an investigation into how classified documents are handled during and after individuals have been given such status and after said status has lapsed.\nLet's be perfectly honest, if they had taken different actions on the first set of documents, we likely wouldn't even know about this because there was nobody searching for them.\nHad Biden and his lawyers actually been seriously corrupt, they could easily have disposed of them in a fireplace or down a toilet and no one would know the better.\nThe fact that they brought this directly to the attention of the proper authorities is at least proof that they do have respect for the rule of law and are willing to except the consequences, even if it is going to be used to make political hay while the sun shines.\nThat said, this likely has huge implications for executive privilege, especially to the extent that the former president argued he had. I personally do not have a problem with the minister of th Office of the President being able to be held accountable for their actions but only if it is equally applied across the board and not just something that we will have to deal with when presidents from the Democratic party are being scrutinized.", ">\n\n\nhas not only the right to have classified information but also the ability to declassify that information.\n\nHe does. But apparently these docs were from his Vice Presidency under Obama. So, it's a bit uncertain.\nAnd it really undermines at least one of the central charges you could have lodged against Trump, that everyone that is able to access classified documents has a substantive responsibility to make sure they are handled appropriately. The \"oh, well, we had to leave in a hurry and things just got mixed up\" arguments Trump could have made before would have had little merit - especially when you consider previous historic cases where even a single doc mishandled ended up with someone in jail.\nBut now Trump will be able to dilute that charge completely. He's still fucked on obstruction and everything else (hopefully).", ">\n\nClassified != Compartmentalized, Top Secret, etc.", ">\n\nI agree with you, but I was recently informed that sources say some of these classified documents were classified Top Secret.\nIt does appear as though ABC is confirming that sources are saying that some of these were top secret documents.\n\nSources also told ABC News that the original batch of about 10 documents found in November contains classified vice-presidential briefing papers about foreign countries, some of which were marked top secret.\n\nAnd CNN is not even using the journalistic term source, going so far as to assert that some of these documents were top secret.\n\nSome of the classified documents were “top secret,” the highest level. They were found in three or four boxes that also contained unclassified papers that fall under the Presidential Records Act, CNN has reported.\n\nIf we are going to maintain Integrity about the treatment of top secret classified documents, it is important to hold both sides accountable for their retention of documents.\nThank goodness that Biden's lawyers were up front with the FBI and NARA rather than lying about the retention of documents and obstructing an investigation.\nI really hope that Biden doesn't try to use the executive privilege argument to keep himself from investigation, but this is likely going to be a permanent stain on his reputation and definitely opens up the presidential field in the Democratic Party for 2024.", ">\n\nWhy would this be a permanent stain on Biden’s reputation?", ">\n\nBecause it will 100% be used along with whataboutism to suggest that Biden was going after Trump for the same thing that he was caught doing, regardless of the fact that Biden was not responsible for the investigation into Trump's documents has not been outspoken about the retention of documents, subsequent Lies by his lawyers, and obstruction.\nI'm not saying that it is going to be fair, or even rational but it is going to cause a stain and that will be used to pillory him.", ">\n\nSo in essence, this is only going to be a stain in the minds of people who are rather brainless to begin with….gotcha", ">\n\nIts a stain because it's political ammunition for the other side, not because you or I see it for the opportunitistically timed political assault that it seems to be. In modern politics, being on the defensive is the same as losing. Hillary Clinton's email fiasco likely contributed to the 2016 election results even though she wasn't indicted for a crime.\nThe people on the other side of the political spectrum who would consider this whole fiasco a stain on Biden AREN'T brainless, they're heavily propogandized, and they DO vote. This whole thing will be used to justify any or all of Trump's conduct that should be immediately disqualifying. Expect this to be split-screened with all of Trump's legal woes.\nHopefully Trump won't make it to the 2024 Election season as a viable candidate. If Trump does make it, Trump will use this against Biden. If Trump loses out to someone like DeSantis, there will be a concerted effort to crucify Biden with it." ]

[ "Do a complete investigation, gather the evidence, follow all procedures and the law, seek justice without fear or favor no matter who is involved. Figure this mess out.", ">\n\nFully agree - and I'd actually like the investigation to be concluded swiftly since the ones being investigated will likely be 100% cooperative. It's not like DoJ will have to be dealing with full on liars and criminals which takes forever to find the answers.", ">\n\nI 100% agree that there ought to be a reasonable investigation into this but I do have to wonder if any of this matters at all given that Biden is currently the president and therefore has not only the right to have classified information but also the ability to declassify that information.\nNot trying to make excuses for the oversight (or lack thereof) of classified documents, but it seems to me as though this requires an investigation into how classified documents are handled during and after individuals have been given such status and after said status has lapsed.\nLet's be perfectly honest, if they had taken different actions on the first set of documents, we likely wouldn't even know about this because there was nobody searching for them.\nHad Biden and his lawyers actually been seriously corrupt, they could easily have disposed of them in a fireplace or down a toilet and no one would know the better.\nThe fact that they brought this directly to the attention of the proper authorities is at least proof that they do have respect for the rule of law and are willing to except the consequences, even if it is going to be used to make political hay while the sun shines.\nThat said, this likely has huge implications for executive privilege, especially to the extent that the former president argued he had. I personally do not have a problem with the minister of th Office of the President being able to be held accountable for their actions but only if it is equally applied across the board and not just something that we will have to deal with when presidents from the Democratic party are being scrutinized.", ">\n\n\nhas not only the right to have classified information but also the ability to declassify that information.\n\nHe does. But apparently these docs were from his Vice Presidency under Obama. So, it's a bit uncertain.\nAnd it really undermines at least one of the central charges you could have lodged against Trump, that everyone that is able to access classified documents has a substantive responsibility to make sure they are handled appropriately. The \"oh, well, we had to leave in a hurry and things just got mixed up\" arguments Trump could have made before would have had little merit - especially when you consider previous historic cases where even a single doc mishandled ended up with someone in jail.\nBut now Trump will be able to dilute that charge completely. He's still fucked on obstruction and everything else (hopefully).", ">\n\nClassified != Compartmentalized, Top Secret, etc.", ">\n\nI agree with you, but I was recently informed that sources say some of these classified documents were classified Top Secret.\nIt does appear as though ABC is confirming that sources are saying that some of these were top secret documents.\n\nSources also told ABC News that the original batch of about 10 documents found in November contains classified vice-presidential briefing papers about foreign countries, some of which were marked top secret.\n\nAnd CNN is not even using the journalistic term source, going so far as to assert that some of these documents were top secret.\n\nSome of the classified documents were “top secret,” the highest level. They were found in three or four boxes that also contained unclassified papers that fall under the Presidential Records Act, CNN has reported.\n\nIf we are going to maintain Integrity about the treatment of top secret classified documents, it is important to hold both sides accountable for their retention of documents.\nThank goodness that Biden's lawyers were up front with the FBI and NARA rather than lying about the retention of documents and obstructing an investigation.\nI really hope that Biden doesn't try to use the executive privilege argument to keep himself from investigation, but this is likely going to be a permanent stain on his reputation and definitely opens up the presidential field in the Democratic Party for 2024.", ">\n\nWhy would this be a permanent stain on Biden’s reputation?", ">\n\nBecause it will 100% be used along with whataboutism to suggest that Biden was going after Trump for the same thing that he was caught doing, regardless of the fact that Biden was not responsible for the investigation into Trump's documents has not been outspoken about the retention of documents, subsequent Lies by his lawyers, and obstruction.\nI'm not saying that it is going to be fair, or even rational but it is going to cause a stain and that will be used to pillory him.", ">\n\nSo in essence, this is only going to be a stain in the minds of people who are rather brainless to begin with….gotcha", ">\n\nIts a stain because it's political ammunition for the other side, not because you or I see it for the opportunitistically timed political assault that it seems to be. In modern politics, being on the defensive is the same as losing. Hillary Clinton's email fiasco likely contributed to the 2016 election results even though she wasn't indicted for a crime.\nThe people on the other side of the political spectrum who would consider this whole fiasco a stain on Biden AREN'T brainless, they're heavily propogandized, and they DO vote. This whole thing will be used to justify any or all of Trump's conduct that should be immediately disqualifying. Expect this to be split-screened with all of Trump's legal woes.\nHopefully Trump won't make it to the 2024 Election season as a viable candidate. If Trump does make it, Trump will use this against Biden. If Trump loses out to someone like DeSantis, there will be a concerted effort to crucify Biden with it.", ">\n\nMy favorite part of this:\nNo raging tweets from the president making up executive powers. Accusing people of planting evidence and arguing about a deep state conspiracy against him." ]

[ "Do a complete investigation, gather the evidence, follow all procedures and the law, seek justice without fear or favor no matter who is involved. Figure this mess out.", ">\n\nFully agree - and I'd actually like the investigation to be concluded swiftly since the ones being investigated will likely be 100% cooperative. It's not like DoJ will have to be dealing with full on liars and criminals which takes forever to find the answers.", ">\n\nI 100% agree that there ought to be a reasonable investigation into this but I do have to wonder if any of this matters at all given that Biden is currently the president and therefore has not only the right to have classified information but also the ability to declassify that information.\nNot trying to make excuses for the oversight (or lack thereof) of classified documents, but it seems to me as though this requires an investigation into how classified documents are handled during and after individuals have been given such status and after said status has lapsed.\nLet's be perfectly honest, if they had taken different actions on the first set of documents, we likely wouldn't even know about this because there was nobody searching for them.\nHad Biden and his lawyers actually been seriously corrupt, they could easily have disposed of them in a fireplace or down a toilet and no one would know the better.\nThe fact that they brought this directly to the attention of the proper authorities is at least proof that they do have respect for the rule of law and are willing to except the consequences, even if it is going to be used to make political hay while the sun shines.\nThat said, this likely has huge implications for executive privilege, especially to the extent that the former president argued he had. I personally do not have a problem with the minister of th Office of the President being able to be held accountable for their actions but only if it is equally applied across the board and not just something that we will have to deal with when presidents from the Democratic party are being scrutinized.", ">\n\n\nhas not only the right to have classified information but also the ability to declassify that information.\n\nHe does. But apparently these docs were from his Vice Presidency under Obama. So, it's a bit uncertain.\nAnd it really undermines at least one of the central charges you could have lodged against Trump, that everyone that is able to access classified documents has a substantive responsibility to make sure they are handled appropriately. The \"oh, well, we had to leave in a hurry and things just got mixed up\" arguments Trump could have made before would have had little merit - especially when you consider previous historic cases where even a single doc mishandled ended up with someone in jail.\nBut now Trump will be able to dilute that charge completely. He's still fucked on obstruction and everything else (hopefully).", ">\n\nClassified != Compartmentalized, Top Secret, etc.", ">\n\nI agree with you, but I was recently informed that sources say some of these classified documents were classified Top Secret.\nIt does appear as though ABC is confirming that sources are saying that some of these were top secret documents.\n\nSources also told ABC News that the original batch of about 10 documents found in November contains classified vice-presidential briefing papers about foreign countries, some of which were marked top secret.\n\nAnd CNN is not even using the journalistic term source, going so far as to assert that some of these documents were top secret.\n\nSome of the classified documents were “top secret,” the highest level. They were found in three or four boxes that also contained unclassified papers that fall under the Presidential Records Act, CNN has reported.\n\nIf we are going to maintain Integrity about the treatment of top secret classified documents, it is important to hold both sides accountable for their retention of documents.\nThank goodness that Biden's lawyers were up front with the FBI and NARA rather than lying about the retention of documents and obstructing an investigation.\nI really hope that Biden doesn't try to use the executive privilege argument to keep himself from investigation, but this is likely going to be a permanent stain on his reputation and definitely opens up the presidential field in the Democratic Party for 2024.", ">\n\nWhy would this be a permanent stain on Biden’s reputation?", ">\n\nBecause it will 100% be used along with whataboutism to suggest that Biden was going after Trump for the same thing that he was caught doing, regardless of the fact that Biden was not responsible for the investigation into Trump's documents has not been outspoken about the retention of documents, subsequent Lies by his lawyers, and obstruction.\nI'm not saying that it is going to be fair, or even rational but it is going to cause a stain and that will be used to pillory him.", ">\n\nSo in essence, this is only going to be a stain in the minds of people who are rather brainless to begin with….gotcha", ">\n\nIts a stain because it's political ammunition for the other side, not because you or I see it for the opportunitistically timed political assault that it seems to be. In modern politics, being on the defensive is the same as losing. Hillary Clinton's email fiasco likely contributed to the 2016 election results even though she wasn't indicted for a crime.\nThe people on the other side of the political spectrum who would consider this whole fiasco a stain on Biden AREN'T brainless, they're heavily propogandized, and they DO vote. This whole thing will be used to justify any or all of Trump's conduct that should be immediately disqualifying. Expect this to be split-screened with all of Trump's legal woes.\nHopefully Trump won't make it to the 2024 Election season as a viable candidate. If Trump does make it, Trump will use this against Biden. If Trump loses out to someone like DeSantis, there will be a concerted effort to crucify Biden with it.", ">\n\nMy favorite part of this:\nNo raging tweets from the president making up executive powers. Accusing people of planting evidence and arguing about a deep state conspiracy against him.", ">\n\nI’d be hilarious if he copy pasted one of trumps tweets and ended it with JK I’m not a raving lunatic in a middle of a tantrum." ]

[ "Do a complete investigation, gather the evidence, follow all procedures and the law, seek justice without fear or favor no matter who is involved. Figure this mess out.", ">\n\nFully agree - and I'd actually like the investigation to be concluded swiftly since the ones being investigated will likely be 100% cooperative. It's not like DoJ will have to be dealing with full on liars and criminals which takes forever to find the answers.", ">\n\nI 100% agree that there ought to be a reasonable investigation into this but I do have to wonder if any of this matters at all given that Biden is currently the president and therefore has not only the right to have classified information but also the ability to declassify that information.\nNot trying to make excuses for the oversight (or lack thereof) of classified documents, but it seems to me as though this requires an investigation into how classified documents are handled during and after individuals have been given such status and after said status has lapsed.\nLet's be perfectly honest, if they had taken different actions on the first set of documents, we likely wouldn't even know about this because there was nobody searching for them.\nHad Biden and his lawyers actually been seriously corrupt, they could easily have disposed of them in a fireplace or down a toilet and no one would know the better.\nThe fact that they brought this directly to the attention of the proper authorities is at least proof that they do have respect for the rule of law and are willing to except the consequences, even if it is going to be used to make political hay while the sun shines.\nThat said, this likely has huge implications for executive privilege, especially to the extent that the former president argued he had. I personally do not have a problem with the minister of th Office of the President being able to be held accountable for their actions but only if it is equally applied across the board and not just something that we will have to deal with when presidents from the Democratic party are being scrutinized.", ">\n\n\nhas not only the right to have classified information but also the ability to declassify that information.\n\nHe does. But apparently these docs were from his Vice Presidency under Obama. So, it's a bit uncertain.\nAnd it really undermines at least one of the central charges you could have lodged against Trump, that everyone that is able to access classified documents has a substantive responsibility to make sure they are handled appropriately. The \"oh, well, we had to leave in a hurry and things just got mixed up\" arguments Trump could have made before would have had little merit - especially when you consider previous historic cases where even a single doc mishandled ended up with someone in jail.\nBut now Trump will be able to dilute that charge completely. He's still fucked on obstruction and everything else (hopefully).", ">\n\nClassified != Compartmentalized, Top Secret, etc.", ">\n\nI agree with you, but I was recently informed that sources say some of these classified documents were classified Top Secret.\nIt does appear as though ABC is confirming that sources are saying that some of these were top secret documents.\n\nSources also told ABC News that the original batch of about 10 documents found in November contains classified vice-presidential briefing papers about foreign countries, some of which were marked top secret.\n\nAnd CNN is not even using the journalistic term source, going so far as to assert that some of these documents were top secret.\n\nSome of the classified documents were “top secret,” the highest level. They were found in three or four boxes that also contained unclassified papers that fall under the Presidential Records Act, CNN has reported.\n\nIf we are going to maintain Integrity about the treatment of top secret classified documents, it is important to hold both sides accountable for their retention of documents.\nThank goodness that Biden's lawyers were up front with the FBI and NARA rather than lying about the retention of documents and obstructing an investigation.\nI really hope that Biden doesn't try to use the executive privilege argument to keep himself from investigation, but this is likely going to be a permanent stain on his reputation and definitely opens up the presidential field in the Democratic Party for 2024.", ">\n\nWhy would this be a permanent stain on Biden’s reputation?", ">\n\nBecause it will 100% be used along with whataboutism to suggest that Biden was going after Trump for the same thing that he was caught doing, regardless of the fact that Biden was not responsible for the investigation into Trump's documents has not been outspoken about the retention of documents, subsequent Lies by his lawyers, and obstruction.\nI'm not saying that it is going to be fair, or even rational but it is going to cause a stain and that will be used to pillory him.", ">\n\nSo in essence, this is only going to be a stain in the minds of people who are rather brainless to begin with….gotcha", ">\n\nIts a stain because it's political ammunition for the other side, not because you or I see it for the opportunitistically timed political assault that it seems to be. In modern politics, being on the defensive is the same as losing. Hillary Clinton's email fiasco likely contributed to the 2016 election results even though she wasn't indicted for a crime.\nThe people on the other side of the political spectrum who would consider this whole fiasco a stain on Biden AREN'T brainless, they're heavily propogandized, and they DO vote. This whole thing will be used to justify any or all of Trump's conduct that should be immediately disqualifying. Expect this to be split-screened with all of Trump's legal woes.\nHopefully Trump won't make it to the 2024 Election season as a viable candidate. If Trump does make it, Trump will use this against Biden. If Trump loses out to someone like DeSantis, there will be a concerted effort to crucify Biden with it.", ">\n\nMy favorite part of this:\nNo raging tweets from the president making up executive powers. Accusing people of planting evidence and arguing about a deep state conspiracy against him.", ">\n\nI’d be hilarious if he copy pasted one of trumps tweets and ended it with JK I’m not a raving lunatic in a middle of a tantrum.", ">\n\nThat would be some great dark Brandon shit." ]

[ "Do a complete investigation, gather the evidence, follow all procedures and the law, seek justice without fear or favor no matter who is involved. Figure this mess out.", ">\n\nFully agree - and I'd actually like the investigation to be concluded swiftly since the ones being investigated will likely be 100% cooperative. It's not like DoJ will have to be dealing with full on liars and criminals which takes forever to find the answers.", ">\n\nI 100% agree that there ought to be a reasonable investigation into this but I do have to wonder if any of this matters at all given that Biden is currently the president and therefore has not only the right to have classified information but also the ability to declassify that information.\nNot trying to make excuses for the oversight (or lack thereof) of classified documents, but it seems to me as though this requires an investigation into how classified documents are handled during and after individuals have been given such status and after said status has lapsed.\nLet's be perfectly honest, if they had taken different actions on the first set of documents, we likely wouldn't even know about this because there was nobody searching for them.\nHad Biden and his lawyers actually been seriously corrupt, they could easily have disposed of them in a fireplace or down a toilet and no one would know the better.\nThe fact that they brought this directly to the attention of the proper authorities is at least proof that they do have respect for the rule of law and are willing to except the consequences, even if it is going to be used to make political hay while the sun shines.\nThat said, this likely has huge implications for executive privilege, especially to the extent that the former president argued he had. I personally do not have a problem with the minister of th Office of the President being able to be held accountable for their actions but only if it is equally applied across the board and not just something that we will have to deal with when presidents from the Democratic party are being scrutinized.", ">\n\n\nhas not only the right to have classified information but also the ability to declassify that information.\n\nHe does. But apparently these docs were from his Vice Presidency under Obama. So, it's a bit uncertain.\nAnd it really undermines at least one of the central charges you could have lodged against Trump, that everyone that is able to access classified documents has a substantive responsibility to make sure they are handled appropriately. The \"oh, well, we had to leave in a hurry and things just got mixed up\" arguments Trump could have made before would have had little merit - especially when you consider previous historic cases where even a single doc mishandled ended up with someone in jail.\nBut now Trump will be able to dilute that charge completely. He's still fucked on obstruction and everything else (hopefully).", ">\n\nClassified != Compartmentalized, Top Secret, etc.", ">\n\nI agree with you, but I was recently informed that sources say some of these classified documents were classified Top Secret.\nIt does appear as though ABC is confirming that sources are saying that some of these were top secret documents.\n\nSources also told ABC News that the original batch of about 10 documents found in November contains classified vice-presidential briefing papers about foreign countries, some of which were marked top secret.\n\nAnd CNN is not even using the journalistic term source, going so far as to assert that some of these documents were top secret.\n\nSome of the classified documents were “top secret,” the highest level. They were found in three or four boxes that also contained unclassified papers that fall under the Presidential Records Act, CNN has reported.\n\nIf we are going to maintain Integrity about the treatment of top secret classified documents, it is important to hold both sides accountable for their retention of documents.\nThank goodness that Biden's lawyers were up front with the FBI and NARA rather than lying about the retention of documents and obstructing an investigation.\nI really hope that Biden doesn't try to use the executive privilege argument to keep himself from investigation, but this is likely going to be a permanent stain on his reputation and definitely opens up the presidential field in the Democratic Party for 2024.", ">\n\nWhy would this be a permanent stain on Biden’s reputation?", ">\n\nBecause it will 100% be used along with whataboutism to suggest that Biden was going after Trump for the same thing that he was caught doing, regardless of the fact that Biden was not responsible for the investigation into Trump's documents has not been outspoken about the retention of documents, subsequent Lies by his lawyers, and obstruction.\nI'm not saying that it is going to be fair, or even rational but it is going to cause a stain and that will be used to pillory him.", ">\n\nSo in essence, this is only going to be a stain in the minds of people who are rather brainless to begin with….gotcha", ">\n\nIts a stain because it's political ammunition for the other side, not because you or I see it for the opportunitistically timed political assault that it seems to be. In modern politics, being on the defensive is the same as losing. Hillary Clinton's email fiasco likely contributed to the 2016 election results even though she wasn't indicted for a crime.\nThe people on the other side of the political spectrum who would consider this whole fiasco a stain on Biden AREN'T brainless, they're heavily propogandized, and they DO vote. This whole thing will be used to justify any or all of Trump's conduct that should be immediately disqualifying. Expect this to be split-screened with all of Trump's legal woes.\nHopefully Trump won't make it to the 2024 Election season as a viable candidate. If Trump does make it, Trump will use this against Biden. If Trump loses out to someone like DeSantis, there will be a concerted effort to crucify Biden with it.", ">\n\nMy favorite part of this:\nNo raging tweets from the president making up executive powers. Accusing people of planting evidence and arguing about a deep state conspiracy against him.", ">\n\nI’d be hilarious if he copy pasted one of trumps tweets and ended it with JK I’m not a raving lunatic in a middle of a tantrum.", ">\n\nThat would be some great dark Brandon shit.", ">\n\nI am all for a special counsel being appointed. But a Trump appointee feels like an attempt by Garland to bend over backwards to show just how apolitical he is. If he wanted to reach across the aisle, he couldn’t find a Bush appointee rather than someone appointed by a man who literally tried to upend the Republic and is known for appointing partisan hacks?" ]

[ "Do a complete investigation, gather the evidence, follow all procedures and the law, seek justice without fear or favor no matter who is involved. Figure this mess out.", ">\n\nFully agree - and I'd actually like the investigation to be concluded swiftly since the ones being investigated will likely be 100% cooperative. It's not like DoJ will have to be dealing with full on liars and criminals which takes forever to find the answers.", ">\n\nI 100% agree that there ought to be a reasonable investigation into this but I do have to wonder if any of this matters at all given that Biden is currently the president and therefore has not only the right to have classified information but also the ability to declassify that information.\nNot trying to make excuses for the oversight (or lack thereof) of classified documents, but it seems to me as though this requires an investigation into how classified documents are handled during and after individuals have been given such status and after said status has lapsed.\nLet's be perfectly honest, if they had taken different actions on the first set of documents, we likely wouldn't even know about this because there was nobody searching for them.\nHad Biden and his lawyers actually been seriously corrupt, they could easily have disposed of them in a fireplace or down a toilet and no one would know the better.\nThe fact that they brought this directly to the attention of the proper authorities is at least proof that they do have respect for the rule of law and are willing to except the consequences, even if it is going to be used to make political hay while the sun shines.\nThat said, this likely has huge implications for executive privilege, especially to the extent that the former president argued he had. I personally do not have a problem with the minister of th Office of the President being able to be held accountable for their actions but only if it is equally applied across the board and not just something that we will have to deal with when presidents from the Democratic party are being scrutinized.", ">\n\n\nhas not only the right to have classified information but also the ability to declassify that information.\n\nHe does. But apparently these docs were from his Vice Presidency under Obama. So, it's a bit uncertain.\nAnd it really undermines at least one of the central charges you could have lodged against Trump, that everyone that is able to access classified documents has a substantive responsibility to make sure they are handled appropriately. The \"oh, well, we had to leave in a hurry and things just got mixed up\" arguments Trump could have made before would have had little merit - especially when you consider previous historic cases where even a single doc mishandled ended up with someone in jail.\nBut now Trump will be able to dilute that charge completely. He's still fucked on obstruction and everything else (hopefully).", ">\n\nClassified != Compartmentalized, Top Secret, etc.", ">\n\nI agree with you, but I was recently informed that sources say some of these classified documents were classified Top Secret.\nIt does appear as though ABC is confirming that sources are saying that some of these were top secret documents.\n\nSources also told ABC News that the original batch of about 10 documents found in November contains classified vice-presidential briefing papers about foreign countries, some of which were marked top secret.\n\nAnd CNN is not even using the journalistic term source, going so far as to assert that some of these documents were top secret.\n\nSome of the classified documents were “top secret,” the highest level. They were found in three or four boxes that also contained unclassified papers that fall under the Presidential Records Act, CNN has reported.\n\nIf we are going to maintain Integrity about the treatment of top secret classified documents, it is important to hold both sides accountable for their retention of documents.\nThank goodness that Biden's lawyers were up front with the FBI and NARA rather than lying about the retention of documents and obstructing an investigation.\nI really hope that Biden doesn't try to use the executive privilege argument to keep himself from investigation, but this is likely going to be a permanent stain on his reputation and definitely opens up the presidential field in the Democratic Party for 2024.", ">\n\nWhy would this be a permanent stain on Biden’s reputation?", ">\n\nBecause it will 100% be used along with whataboutism to suggest that Biden was going after Trump for the same thing that he was caught doing, regardless of the fact that Biden was not responsible for the investigation into Trump's documents has not been outspoken about the retention of documents, subsequent Lies by his lawyers, and obstruction.\nI'm not saying that it is going to be fair, or even rational but it is going to cause a stain and that will be used to pillory him.", ">\n\nSo in essence, this is only going to be a stain in the minds of people who are rather brainless to begin with….gotcha", ">\n\nIts a stain because it's political ammunition for the other side, not because you or I see it for the opportunitistically timed political assault that it seems to be. In modern politics, being on the defensive is the same as losing. Hillary Clinton's email fiasco likely contributed to the 2016 election results even though she wasn't indicted for a crime.\nThe people on the other side of the political spectrum who would consider this whole fiasco a stain on Biden AREN'T brainless, they're heavily propogandized, and they DO vote. This whole thing will be used to justify any or all of Trump's conduct that should be immediately disqualifying. Expect this to be split-screened with all of Trump's legal woes.\nHopefully Trump won't make it to the 2024 Election season as a viable candidate. If Trump does make it, Trump will use this against Biden. If Trump loses out to someone like DeSantis, there will be a concerted effort to crucify Biden with it.", ">\n\nMy favorite part of this:\nNo raging tweets from the president making up executive powers. Accusing people of planting evidence and arguing about a deep state conspiracy against him.", ">\n\nI’d be hilarious if he copy pasted one of trumps tweets and ended it with JK I’m not a raving lunatic in a middle of a tantrum.", ">\n\nThat would be some great dark Brandon shit.", ">\n\nI am all for a special counsel being appointed. But a Trump appointee feels like an attempt by Garland to bend over backwards to show just how apolitical he is. If he wanted to reach across the aisle, he couldn’t find a Bush appointee rather than someone appointed by a man who literally tried to upend the Republic and is known for appointing partisan hacks?", ">\n\nThis is how Garland has been acting since appointed. It’s like he’s so terrified of being perceived as biased against repubs that he instead acts biased against dems. He has truly been a failure at AG.. even more of a letdown than Mueller" ]

[ "Do a complete investigation, gather the evidence, follow all procedures and the law, seek justice without fear or favor no matter who is involved. Figure this mess out.", ">\n\nFully agree - and I'd actually like the investigation to be concluded swiftly since the ones being investigated will likely be 100% cooperative. It's not like DoJ will have to be dealing with full on liars and criminals which takes forever to find the answers.", ">\n\nI 100% agree that there ought to be a reasonable investigation into this but I do have to wonder if any of this matters at all given that Biden is currently the president and therefore has not only the right to have classified information but also the ability to declassify that information.\nNot trying to make excuses for the oversight (or lack thereof) of classified documents, but it seems to me as though this requires an investigation into how classified documents are handled during and after individuals have been given such status and after said status has lapsed.\nLet's be perfectly honest, if they had taken different actions on the first set of documents, we likely wouldn't even know about this because there was nobody searching for them.\nHad Biden and his lawyers actually been seriously corrupt, they could easily have disposed of them in a fireplace or down a toilet and no one would know the better.\nThe fact that they brought this directly to the attention of the proper authorities is at least proof that they do have respect for the rule of law and are willing to except the consequences, even if it is going to be used to make political hay while the sun shines.\nThat said, this likely has huge implications for executive privilege, especially to the extent that the former president argued he had. I personally do not have a problem with the minister of th Office of the President being able to be held accountable for their actions but only if it is equally applied across the board and not just something that we will have to deal with when presidents from the Democratic party are being scrutinized.", ">\n\n\nhas not only the right to have classified information but also the ability to declassify that information.\n\nHe does. But apparently these docs were from his Vice Presidency under Obama. So, it's a bit uncertain.\nAnd it really undermines at least one of the central charges you could have lodged against Trump, that everyone that is able to access classified documents has a substantive responsibility to make sure they are handled appropriately. The \"oh, well, we had to leave in a hurry and things just got mixed up\" arguments Trump could have made before would have had little merit - especially when you consider previous historic cases where even a single doc mishandled ended up with someone in jail.\nBut now Trump will be able to dilute that charge completely. He's still fucked on obstruction and everything else (hopefully).", ">\n\nClassified != Compartmentalized, Top Secret, etc.", ">\n\nI agree with you, but I was recently informed that sources say some of these classified documents were classified Top Secret.\nIt does appear as though ABC is confirming that sources are saying that some of these were top secret documents.\n\nSources also told ABC News that the original batch of about 10 documents found in November contains classified vice-presidential briefing papers about foreign countries, some of which were marked top secret.\n\nAnd CNN is not even using the journalistic term source, going so far as to assert that some of these documents were top secret.\n\nSome of the classified documents were “top secret,” the highest level. They were found in three or four boxes that also contained unclassified papers that fall under the Presidential Records Act, CNN has reported.\n\nIf we are going to maintain Integrity about the treatment of top secret classified documents, it is important to hold both sides accountable for their retention of documents.\nThank goodness that Biden's lawyers were up front with the FBI and NARA rather than lying about the retention of documents and obstructing an investigation.\nI really hope that Biden doesn't try to use the executive privilege argument to keep himself from investigation, but this is likely going to be a permanent stain on his reputation and definitely opens up the presidential field in the Democratic Party for 2024.", ">\n\nWhy would this be a permanent stain on Biden’s reputation?", ">\n\nBecause it will 100% be used along with whataboutism to suggest that Biden was going after Trump for the same thing that he was caught doing, regardless of the fact that Biden was not responsible for the investigation into Trump's documents has not been outspoken about the retention of documents, subsequent Lies by his lawyers, and obstruction.\nI'm not saying that it is going to be fair, or even rational but it is going to cause a stain and that will be used to pillory him.", ">\n\nSo in essence, this is only going to be a stain in the minds of people who are rather brainless to begin with….gotcha", ">\n\nIts a stain because it's political ammunition for the other side, not because you or I see it for the opportunitistically timed political assault that it seems to be. In modern politics, being on the defensive is the same as losing. Hillary Clinton's email fiasco likely contributed to the 2016 election results even though she wasn't indicted for a crime.\nThe people on the other side of the political spectrum who would consider this whole fiasco a stain on Biden AREN'T brainless, they're heavily propogandized, and they DO vote. This whole thing will be used to justify any or all of Trump's conduct that should be immediately disqualifying. Expect this to be split-screened with all of Trump's legal woes.\nHopefully Trump won't make it to the 2024 Election season as a viable candidate. If Trump does make it, Trump will use this against Biden. If Trump loses out to someone like DeSantis, there will be a concerted effort to crucify Biden with it.", ">\n\nMy favorite part of this:\nNo raging tweets from the president making up executive powers. Accusing people of planting evidence and arguing about a deep state conspiracy against him.", ">\n\nI’d be hilarious if he copy pasted one of trumps tweets and ended it with JK I’m not a raving lunatic in a middle of a tantrum.", ">\n\nThat would be some great dark Brandon shit.", ">\n\nI am all for a special counsel being appointed. But a Trump appointee feels like an attempt by Garland to bend over backwards to show just how apolitical he is. If he wanted to reach across the aisle, he couldn’t find a Bush appointee rather than someone appointed by a man who literally tried to upend the Republic and is known for appointing partisan hacks?", ">\n\nThis is how Garland has been acting since appointed. It’s like he’s so terrified of being perceived as biased against repubs that he instead acts biased against dems. He has truly been a failure at AG.. even more of a letdown than Mueller", ">\n\nWell, Garland is a conservative….. people think that he must be left wing because Obama nominated him for SCOTUS. NOPE! - he’s right wing and Obama was throwing the GOP a bone. The GOP just hated Obama so fucking much they slapped down a nominee that aligned with them." ]

[ "Do a complete investigation, gather the evidence, follow all procedures and the law, seek justice without fear or favor no matter who is involved. Figure this mess out.", ">\n\nFully agree - and I'd actually like the investigation to be concluded swiftly since the ones being investigated will likely be 100% cooperative. It's not like DoJ will have to be dealing with full on liars and criminals which takes forever to find the answers.", ">\n\nI 100% agree that there ought to be a reasonable investigation into this but I do have to wonder if any of this matters at all given that Biden is currently the president and therefore has not only the right to have classified information but also the ability to declassify that information.\nNot trying to make excuses for the oversight (or lack thereof) of classified documents, but it seems to me as though this requires an investigation into how classified documents are handled during and after individuals have been given such status and after said status has lapsed.\nLet's be perfectly honest, if they had taken different actions on the first set of documents, we likely wouldn't even know about this because there was nobody searching for them.\nHad Biden and his lawyers actually been seriously corrupt, they could easily have disposed of them in a fireplace or down a toilet and no one would know the better.\nThe fact that they brought this directly to the attention of the proper authorities is at least proof that they do have respect for the rule of law and are willing to except the consequences, even if it is going to be used to make political hay while the sun shines.\nThat said, this likely has huge implications for executive privilege, especially to the extent that the former president argued he had. I personally do not have a problem with the minister of th Office of the President being able to be held accountable for their actions but only if it is equally applied across the board and not just something that we will have to deal with when presidents from the Democratic party are being scrutinized.", ">\n\n\nhas not only the right to have classified information but also the ability to declassify that information.\n\nHe does. But apparently these docs were from his Vice Presidency under Obama. So, it's a bit uncertain.\nAnd it really undermines at least one of the central charges you could have lodged against Trump, that everyone that is able to access classified documents has a substantive responsibility to make sure they are handled appropriately. The \"oh, well, we had to leave in a hurry and things just got mixed up\" arguments Trump could have made before would have had little merit - especially when you consider previous historic cases where even a single doc mishandled ended up with someone in jail.\nBut now Trump will be able to dilute that charge completely. He's still fucked on obstruction and everything else (hopefully).", ">\n\nClassified != Compartmentalized, Top Secret, etc.", ">\n\nI agree with you, but I was recently informed that sources say some of these classified documents were classified Top Secret.\nIt does appear as though ABC is confirming that sources are saying that some of these were top secret documents.\n\nSources also told ABC News that the original batch of about 10 documents found in November contains classified vice-presidential briefing papers about foreign countries, some of which were marked top secret.\n\nAnd CNN is not even using the journalistic term source, going so far as to assert that some of these documents were top secret.\n\nSome of the classified documents were “top secret,” the highest level. They were found in three or four boxes that also contained unclassified papers that fall under the Presidential Records Act, CNN has reported.\n\nIf we are going to maintain Integrity about the treatment of top secret classified documents, it is important to hold both sides accountable for their retention of documents.\nThank goodness that Biden's lawyers were up front with the FBI and NARA rather than lying about the retention of documents and obstructing an investigation.\nI really hope that Biden doesn't try to use the executive privilege argument to keep himself from investigation, but this is likely going to be a permanent stain on his reputation and definitely opens up the presidential field in the Democratic Party for 2024.", ">\n\nWhy would this be a permanent stain on Biden’s reputation?", ">\n\nBecause it will 100% be used along with whataboutism to suggest that Biden was going after Trump for the same thing that he was caught doing, regardless of the fact that Biden was not responsible for the investigation into Trump's documents has not been outspoken about the retention of documents, subsequent Lies by his lawyers, and obstruction.\nI'm not saying that it is going to be fair, or even rational but it is going to cause a stain and that will be used to pillory him.", ">\n\nSo in essence, this is only going to be a stain in the minds of people who are rather brainless to begin with….gotcha", ">\n\nIts a stain because it's political ammunition for the other side, not because you or I see it for the opportunitistically timed political assault that it seems to be. In modern politics, being on the defensive is the same as losing. Hillary Clinton's email fiasco likely contributed to the 2016 election results even though she wasn't indicted for a crime.\nThe people on the other side of the political spectrum who would consider this whole fiasco a stain on Biden AREN'T brainless, they're heavily propogandized, and they DO vote. This whole thing will be used to justify any or all of Trump's conduct that should be immediately disqualifying. Expect this to be split-screened with all of Trump's legal woes.\nHopefully Trump won't make it to the 2024 Election season as a viable candidate. If Trump does make it, Trump will use this against Biden. If Trump loses out to someone like DeSantis, there will be a concerted effort to crucify Biden with it.", ">\n\nMy favorite part of this:\nNo raging tweets from the president making up executive powers. Accusing people of planting evidence and arguing about a deep state conspiracy against him.", ">\n\nI’d be hilarious if he copy pasted one of trumps tweets and ended it with JK I’m not a raving lunatic in a middle of a tantrum.", ">\n\nThat would be some great dark Brandon shit.", ">\n\nI am all for a special counsel being appointed. But a Trump appointee feels like an attempt by Garland to bend over backwards to show just how apolitical he is. If he wanted to reach across the aisle, he couldn’t find a Bush appointee rather than someone appointed by a man who literally tried to upend the Republic and is known for appointing partisan hacks?", ">\n\nThis is how Garland has been acting since appointed. It’s like he’s so terrified of being perceived as biased against repubs that he instead acts biased against dems. He has truly been a failure at AG.. even more of a letdown than Mueller", ">\n\nWell, Garland is a conservative….. people think that he must be left wing because Obama nominated him for SCOTUS. NOPE! - he’s right wing and Obama was throwing the GOP a bone. The GOP just hated Obama so fucking much they slapped down a nominee that aligned with them.", ">\n\nTrue, Biden should have appointed someone else" ]

[ "Do a complete investigation, gather the evidence, follow all procedures and the law, seek justice without fear or favor no matter who is involved. Figure this mess out.", ">\n\nFully agree - and I'd actually like the investigation to be concluded swiftly since the ones being investigated will likely be 100% cooperative. It's not like DoJ will have to be dealing with full on liars and criminals which takes forever to find the answers.", ">\n\nI 100% agree that there ought to be a reasonable investigation into this but I do have to wonder if any of this matters at all given that Biden is currently the president and therefore has not only the right to have classified information but also the ability to declassify that information.\nNot trying to make excuses for the oversight (or lack thereof) of classified documents, but it seems to me as though this requires an investigation into how classified documents are handled during and after individuals have been given such status and after said status has lapsed.\nLet's be perfectly honest, if they had taken different actions on the first set of documents, we likely wouldn't even know about this because there was nobody searching for them.\nHad Biden and his lawyers actually been seriously corrupt, they could easily have disposed of them in a fireplace or down a toilet and no one would know the better.\nThe fact that they brought this directly to the attention of the proper authorities is at least proof that they do have respect for the rule of law and are willing to except the consequences, even if it is going to be used to make political hay while the sun shines.\nThat said, this likely has huge implications for executive privilege, especially to the extent that the former president argued he had. I personally do not have a problem with the minister of th Office of the President being able to be held accountable for their actions but only if it is equally applied across the board and not just something that we will have to deal with when presidents from the Democratic party are being scrutinized.", ">\n\n\nhas not only the right to have classified information but also the ability to declassify that information.\n\nHe does. But apparently these docs were from his Vice Presidency under Obama. So, it's a bit uncertain.\nAnd it really undermines at least one of the central charges you could have lodged against Trump, that everyone that is able to access classified documents has a substantive responsibility to make sure they are handled appropriately. The \"oh, well, we had to leave in a hurry and things just got mixed up\" arguments Trump could have made before would have had little merit - especially when you consider previous historic cases where even a single doc mishandled ended up with someone in jail.\nBut now Trump will be able to dilute that charge completely. He's still fucked on obstruction and everything else (hopefully).", ">\n\nClassified != Compartmentalized, Top Secret, etc.", ">\n\nI agree with you, but I was recently informed that sources say some of these classified documents were classified Top Secret.\nIt does appear as though ABC is confirming that sources are saying that some of these were top secret documents.\n\nSources also told ABC News that the original batch of about 10 documents found in November contains classified vice-presidential briefing papers about foreign countries, some of which were marked top secret.\n\nAnd CNN is not even using the journalistic term source, going so far as to assert that some of these documents were top secret.\n\nSome of the classified documents were “top secret,” the highest level. They were found in three or four boxes that also contained unclassified papers that fall under the Presidential Records Act, CNN has reported.\n\nIf we are going to maintain Integrity about the treatment of top secret classified documents, it is important to hold both sides accountable for their retention of documents.\nThank goodness that Biden's lawyers were up front with the FBI and NARA rather than lying about the retention of documents and obstructing an investigation.\nI really hope that Biden doesn't try to use the executive privilege argument to keep himself from investigation, but this is likely going to be a permanent stain on his reputation and definitely opens up the presidential field in the Democratic Party for 2024.", ">\n\nWhy would this be a permanent stain on Biden’s reputation?", ">\n\nBecause it will 100% be used along with whataboutism to suggest that Biden was going after Trump for the same thing that he was caught doing, regardless of the fact that Biden was not responsible for the investigation into Trump's documents has not been outspoken about the retention of documents, subsequent Lies by his lawyers, and obstruction.\nI'm not saying that it is going to be fair, or even rational but it is going to cause a stain and that will be used to pillory him.", ">\n\nSo in essence, this is only going to be a stain in the minds of people who are rather brainless to begin with….gotcha", ">\n\nIts a stain because it's political ammunition for the other side, not because you or I see it for the opportunitistically timed political assault that it seems to be. In modern politics, being on the defensive is the same as losing. Hillary Clinton's email fiasco likely contributed to the 2016 election results even though she wasn't indicted for a crime.\nThe people on the other side of the political spectrum who would consider this whole fiasco a stain on Biden AREN'T brainless, they're heavily propogandized, and they DO vote. This whole thing will be used to justify any or all of Trump's conduct that should be immediately disqualifying. Expect this to be split-screened with all of Trump's legal woes.\nHopefully Trump won't make it to the 2024 Election season as a viable candidate. If Trump does make it, Trump will use this against Biden. If Trump loses out to someone like DeSantis, there will be a concerted effort to crucify Biden with it.", ">\n\nMy favorite part of this:\nNo raging tweets from the president making up executive powers. Accusing people of planting evidence and arguing about a deep state conspiracy against him.", ">\n\nI’d be hilarious if he copy pasted one of trumps tweets and ended it with JK I’m not a raving lunatic in a middle of a tantrum.", ">\n\nThat would be some great dark Brandon shit.", ">\n\nI am all for a special counsel being appointed. But a Trump appointee feels like an attempt by Garland to bend over backwards to show just how apolitical he is. If he wanted to reach across the aisle, he couldn’t find a Bush appointee rather than someone appointed by a man who literally tried to upend the Republic and is known for appointing partisan hacks?", ">\n\nThis is how Garland has been acting since appointed. It’s like he’s so terrified of being perceived as biased against repubs that he instead acts biased against dems. He has truly been a failure at AG.. even more of a letdown than Mueller", ">\n\nWell, Garland is a conservative….. people think that he must be left wing because Obama nominated him for SCOTUS. NOPE! - he’s right wing and Obama was throwing the GOP a bone. The GOP just hated Obama so fucking much they slapped down a nominee that aligned with them.", ">\n\nTrue, Biden should have appointed someone else", ">\n\nOnly took a year and a half to appoint one for Trump. Also what about that DOJ policy about not investigating and prosecuting a sitting president which protected the former guy for, what, six years now?" ]

[ "Do a complete investigation, gather the evidence, follow all procedures and the law, seek justice without fear or favor no matter who is involved. Figure this mess out.", ">\n\nFully agree - and I'd actually like the investigation to be concluded swiftly since the ones being investigated will likely be 100% cooperative. It's not like DoJ will have to be dealing with full on liars and criminals which takes forever to find the answers.", ">\n\nI 100% agree that there ought to be a reasonable investigation into this but I do have to wonder if any of this matters at all given that Biden is currently the president and therefore has not only the right to have classified information but also the ability to declassify that information.\nNot trying to make excuses for the oversight (or lack thereof) of classified documents, but it seems to me as though this requires an investigation into how classified documents are handled during and after individuals have been given such status and after said status has lapsed.\nLet's be perfectly honest, if they had taken different actions on the first set of documents, we likely wouldn't even know about this because there was nobody searching for them.\nHad Biden and his lawyers actually been seriously corrupt, they could easily have disposed of them in a fireplace or down a toilet and no one would know the better.\nThe fact that they brought this directly to the attention of the proper authorities is at least proof that they do have respect for the rule of law and are willing to except the consequences, even if it is going to be used to make political hay while the sun shines.\nThat said, this likely has huge implications for executive privilege, especially to the extent that the former president argued he had. I personally do not have a problem with the minister of th Office of the President being able to be held accountable for their actions but only if it is equally applied across the board and not just something that we will have to deal with when presidents from the Democratic party are being scrutinized.", ">\n\n\nhas not only the right to have classified information but also the ability to declassify that information.\n\nHe does. But apparently these docs were from his Vice Presidency under Obama. So, it's a bit uncertain.\nAnd it really undermines at least one of the central charges you could have lodged against Trump, that everyone that is able to access classified documents has a substantive responsibility to make sure they are handled appropriately. The \"oh, well, we had to leave in a hurry and things just got mixed up\" arguments Trump could have made before would have had little merit - especially when you consider previous historic cases where even a single doc mishandled ended up with someone in jail.\nBut now Trump will be able to dilute that charge completely. He's still fucked on obstruction and everything else (hopefully).", ">\n\nClassified != Compartmentalized, Top Secret, etc.", ">\n\nI agree with you, but I was recently informed that sources say some of these classified documents were classified Top Secret.\nIt does appear as though ABC is confirming that sources are saying that some of these were top secret documents.\n\nSources also told ABC News that the original batch of about 10 documents found in November contains classified vice-presidential briefing papers about foreign countries, some of which were marked top secret.\n\nAnd CNN is not even using the journalistic term source, going so far as to assert that some of these documents were top secret.\n\nSome of the classified documents were “top secret,” the highest level. They were found in three or four boxes that also contained unclassified papers that fall under the Presidential Records Act, CNN has reported.\n\nIf we are going to maintain Integrity about the treatment of top secret classified documents, it is important to hold both sides accountable for their retention of documents.\nThank goodness that Biden's lawyers were up front with the FBI and NARA rather than lying about the retention of documents and obstructing an investigation.\nI really hope that Biden doesn't try to use the executive privilege argument to keep himself from investigation, but this is likely going to be a permanent stain on his reputation and definitely opens up the presidential field in the Democratic Party for 2024.", ">\n\nWhy would this be a permanent stain on Biden’s reputation?", ">\n\nBecause it will 100% be used along with whataboutism to suggest that Biden was going after Trump for the same thing that he was caught doing, regardless of the fact that Biden was not responsible for the investigation into Trump's documents has not been outspoken about the retention of documents, subsequent Lies by his lawyers, and obstruction.\nI'm not saying that it is going to be fair, or even rational but it is going to cause a stain and that will be used to pillory him.", ">\n\nSo in essence, this is only going to be a stain in the minds of people who are rather brainless to begin with….gotcha", ">\n\nIts a stain because it's political ammunition for the other side, not because you or I see it for the opportunitistically timed political assault that it seems to be. In modern politics, being on the defensive is the same as losing. Hillary Clinton's email fiasco likely contributed to the 2016 election results even though she wasn't indicted for a crime.\nThe people on the other side of the political spectrum who would consider this whole fiasco a stain on Biden AREN'T brainless, they're heavily propogandized, and they DO vote. This whole thing will be used to justify any or all of Trump's conduct that should be immediately disqualifying. Expect this to be split-screened with all of Trump's legal woes.\nHopefully Trump won't make it to the 2024 Election season as a viable candidate. If Trump does make it, Trump will use this against Biden. If Trump loses out to someone like DeSantis, there will be a concerted effort to crucify Biden with it.", ">\n\nMy favorite part of this:\nNo raging tweets from the president making up executive powers. Accusing people of planting evidence and arguing about a deep state conspiracy against him.", ">\n\nI’d be hilarious if he copy pasted one of trumps tweets and ended it with JK I’m not a raving lunatic in a middle of a tantrum.", ">\n\nThat would be some great dark Brandon shit.", ">\n\nI am all for a special counsel being appointed. But a Trump appointee feels like an attempt by Garland to bend over backwards to show just how apolitical he is. If he wanted to reach across the aisle, he couldn’t find a Bush appointee rather than someone appointed by a man who literally tried to upend the Republic and is known for appointing partisan hacks?", ">\n\nThis is how Garland has been acting since appointed. It’s like he’s so terrified of being perceived as biased against repubs that he instead acts biased against dems. He has truly been a failure at AG.. even more of a letdown than Mueller", ">\n\nWell, Garland is a conservative….. people think that he must be left wing because Obama nominated him for SCOTUS. NOPE! - he’s right wing and Obama was throwing the GOP a bone. The GOP just hated Obama so fucking much they slapped down a nominee that aligned with them.", ">\n\nTrue, Biden should have appointed someone else", ">\n\nOnly took a year and a half to appoint one for Trump. Also what about that DOJ policy about not investigating and prosecuting a sitting president which protected the former guy for, what, six years now?", ">\n\nGarland is not our friend." ]

[ "Do a complete investigation, gather the evidence, follow all procedures and the law, seek justice without fear or favor no matter who is involved. Figure this mess out.", ">\n\nFully agree - and I'd actually like the investigation to be concluded swiftly since the ones being investigated will likely be 100% cooperative. It's not like DoJ will have to be dealing with full on liars and criminals which takes forever to find the answers.", ">\n\nI 100% agree that there ought to be a reasonable investigation into this but I do have to wonder if any of this matters at all given that Biden is currently the president and therefore has not only the right to have classified information but also the ability to declassify that information.\nNot trying to make excuses for the oversight (or lack thereof) of classified documents, but it seems to me as though this requires an investigation into how classified documents are handled during and after individuals have been given such status and after said status has lapsed.\nLet's be perfectly honest, if they had taken different actions on the first set of documents, we likely wouldn't even know about this because there was nobody searching for them.\nHad Biden and his lawyers actually been seriously corrupt, they could easily have disposed of them in a fireplace or down a toilet and no one would know the better.\nThe fact that they brought this directly to the attention of the proper authorities is at least proof that they do have respect for the rule of law and are willing to except the consequences, even if it is going to be used to make political hay while the sun shines.\nThat said, this likely has huge implications for executive privilege, especially to the extent that the former president argued he had. I personally do not have a problem with the minister of th Office of the President being able to be held accountable for their actions but only if it is equally applied across the board and not just something that we will have to deal with when presidents from the Democratic party are being scrutinized.", ">\n\n\nhas not only the right to have classified information but also the ability to declassify that information.\n\nHe does. But apparently these docs were from his Vice Presidency under Obama. So, it's a bit uncertain.\nAnd it really undermines at least one of the central charges you could have lodged against Trump, that everyone that is able to access classified documents has a substantive responsibility to make sure they are handled appropriately. The \"oh, well, we had to leave in a hurry and things just got mixed up\" arguments Trump could have made before would have had little merit - especially when you consider previous historic cases where even a single doc mishandled ended up with someone in jail.\nBut now Trump will be able to dilute that charge completely. He's still fucked on obstruction and everything else (hopefully).", ">\n\nClassified != Compartmentalized, Top Secret, etc.", ">\n\nI agree with you, but I was recently informed that sources say some of these classified documents were classified Top Secret.\nIt does appear as though ABC is confirming that sources are saying that some of these were top secret documents.\n\nSources also told ABC News that the original batch of about 10 documents found in November contains classified vice-presidential briefing papers about foreign countries, some of which were marked top secret.\n\nAnd CNN is not even using the journalistic term source, going so far as to assert that some of these documents were top secret.\n\nSome of the classified documents were “top secret,” the highest level. They were found in three or four boxes that also contained unclassified papers that fall under the Presidential Records Act, CNN has reported.\n\nIf we are going to maintain Integrity about the treatment of top secret classified documents, it is important to hold both sides accountable for their retention of documents.\nThank goodness that Biden's lawyers were up front with the FBI and NARA rather than lying about the retention of documents and obstructing an investigation.\nI really hope that Biden doesn't try to use the executive privilege argument to keep himself from investigation, but this is likely going to be a permanent stain on his reputation and definitely opens up the presidential field in the Democratic Party for 2024.", ">\n\nWhy would this be a permanent stain on Biden’s reputation?", ">\n\nBecause it will 100% be used along with whataboutism to suggest that Biden was going after Trump for the same thing that he was caught doing, regardless of the fact that Biden was not responsible for the investigation into Trump's documents has not been outspoken about the retention of documents, subsequent Lies by his lawyers, and obstruction.\nI'm not saying that it is going to be fair, or even rational but it is going to cause a stain and that will be used to pillory him.", ">\n\nSo in essence, this is only going to be a stain in the minds of people who are rather brainless to begin with….gotcha", ">\n\nIts a stain because it's political ammunition for the other side, not because you or I see it for the opportunitistically timed political assault that it seems to be. In modern politics, being on the defensive is the same as losing. Hillary Clinton's email fiasco likely contributed to the 2016 election results even though she wasn't indicted for a crime.\nThe people on the other side of the political spectrum who would consider this whole fiasco a stain on Biden AREN'T brainless, they're heavily propogandized, and they DO vote. This whole thing will be used to justify any or all of Trump's conduct that should be immediately disqualifying. Expect this to be split-screened with all of Trump's legal woes.\nHopefully Trump won't make it to the 2024 Election season as a viable candidate. If Trump does make it, Trump will use this against Biden. If Trump loses out to someone like DeSantis, there will be a concerted effort to crucify Biden with it.", ">\n\nMy favorite part of this:\nNo raging tweets from the president making up executive powers. Accusing people of planting evidence and arguing about a deep state conspiracy against him.", ">\n\nI’d be hilarious if he copy pasted one of trumps tweets and ended it with JK I’m not a raving lunatic in a middle of a tantrum.", ">\n\nThat would be some great dark Brandon shit.", ">\n\nI am all for a special counsel being appointed. But a Trump appointee feels like an attempt by Garland to bend over backwards to show just how apolitical he is. If he wanted to reach across the aisle, he couldn’t find a Bush appointee rather than someone appointed by a man who literally tried to upend the Republic and is known for appointing partisan hacks?", ">\n\nThis is how Garland has been acting since appointed. It’s like he’s so terrified of being perceived as biased against repubs that he instead acts biased against dems. He has truly been a failure at AG.. even more of a letdown than Mueller", ">\n\nWell, Garland is a conservative….. people think that he must be left wing because Obama nominated him for SCOTUS. NOPE! - he’s right wing and Obama was throwing the GOP a bone. The GOP just hated Obama so fucking much they slapped down a nominee that aligned with them.", ">\n\nTrue, Biden should have appointed someone else", ">\n\nOnly took a year and a half to appoint one for Trump. Also what about that DOJ policy about not investigating and prosecuting a sitting president which protected the former guy for, what, six years now?", ">\n\nGarland is not our friend.", ">\n\nWho’s friend, exactly? What does friendship have to do with accountability to rules and laws?\nAre you suggesting the DOJ should be aligned and friendly with one particular party or another and so they don’t have to follow rules and laws we expect others to comply with?" ]

[ "Do a complete investigation, gather the evidence, follow all procedures and the law, seek justice without fear or favor no matter who is involved. Figure this mess out.", ">\n\nFully agree - and I'd actually like the investigation to be concluded swiftly since the ones being investigated will likely be 100% cooperative. It's not like DoJ will have to be dealing with full on liars and criminals which takes forever to find the answers.", ">\n\nI 100% agree that there ought to be a reasonable investigation into this but I do have to wonder if any of this matters at all given that Biden is currently the president and therefore has not only the right to have classified information but also the ability to declassify that information.\nNot trying to make excuses for the oversight (or lack thereof) of classified documents, but it seems to me as though this requires an investigation into how classified documents are handled during and after individuals have been given such status and after said status has lapsed.\nLet's be perfectly honest, if they had taken different actions on the first set of documents, we likely wouldn't even know about this because there was nobody searching for them.\nHad Biden and his lawyers actually been seriously corrupt, they could easily have disposed of them in a fireplace or down a toilet and no one would know the better.\nThe fact that they brought this directly to the attention of the proper authorities is at least proof that they do have respect for the rule of law and are willing to except the consequences, even if it is going to be used to make political hay while the sun shines.\nThat said, this likely has huge implications for executive privilege, especially to the extent that the former president argued he had. I personally do not have a problem with the minister of th Office of the President being able to be held accountable for their actions but only if it is equally applied across the board and not just something that we will have to deal with when presidents from the Democratic party are being scrutinized.", ">\n\n\nhas not only the right to have classified information but also the ability to declassify that information.\n\nHe does. But apparently these docs were from his Vice Presidency under Obama. So, it's a bit uncertain.\nAnd it really undermines at least one of the central charges you could have lodged against Trump, that everyone that is able to access classified documents has a substantive responsibility to make sure they are handled appropriately. The \"oh, well, we had to leave in a hurry and things just got mixed up\" arguments Trump could have made before would have had little merit - especially when you consider previous historic cases where even a single doc mishandled ended up with someone in jail.\nBut now Trump will be able to dilute that charge completely. He's still fucked on obstruction and everything else (hopefully).", ">\n\nClassified != Compartmentalized, Top Secret, etc.", ">\n\nI agree with you, but I was recently informed that sources say some of these classified documents were classified Top Secret.\nIt does appear as though ABC is confirming that sources are saying that some of these were top secret documents.\n\nSources also told ABC News that the original batch of about 10 documents found in November contains classified vice-presidential briefing papers about foreign countries, some of which were marked top secret.\n\nAnd CNN is not even using the journalistic term source, going so far as to assert that some of these documents were top secret.\n\nSome of the classified documents were “top secret,” the highest level. They were found in three or four boxes that also contained unclassified papers that fall under the Presidential Records Act, CNN has reported.\n\nIf we are going to maintain Integrity about the treatment of top secret classified documents, it is important to hold both sides accountable for their retention of documents.\nThank goodness that Biden's lawyers were up front with the FBI and NARA rather than lying about the retention of documents and obstructing an investigation.\nI really hope that Biden doesn't try to use the executive privilege argument to keep himself from investigation, but this is likely going to be a permanent stain on his reputation and definitely opens up the presidential field in the Democratic Party for 2024.", ">\n\nWhy would this be a permanent stain on Biden’s reputation?", ">\n\nBecause it will 100% be used along with whataboutism to suggest that Biden was going after Trump for the same thing that he was caught doing, regardless of the fact that Biden was not responsible for the investigation into Trump's documents has not been outspoken about the retention of documents, subsequent Lies by his lawyers, and obstruction.\nI'm not saying that it is going to be fair, or even rational but it is going to cause a stain and that will be used to pillory him.", ">\n\nSo in essence, this is only going to be a stain in the minds of people who are rather brainless to begin with….gotcha", ">\n\nIts a stain because it's political ammunition for the other side, not because you or I see it for the opportunitistically timed political assault that it seems to be. In modern politics, being on the defensive is the same as losing. Hillary Clinton's email fiasco likely contributed to the 2016 election results even though she wasn't indicted for a crime.\nThe people on the other side of the political spectrum who would consider this whole fiasco a stain on Biden AREN'T brainless, they're heavily propogandized, and they DO vote. This whole thing will be used to justify any or all of Trump's conduct that should be immediately disqualifying. Expect this to be split-screened with all of Trump's legal woes.\nHopefully Trump won't make it to the 2024 Election season as a viable candidate. If Trump does make it, Trump will use this against Biden. If Trump loses out to someone like DeSantis, there will be a concerted effort to crucify Biden with it.", ">\n\nMy favorite part of this:\nNo raging tweets from the president making up executive powers. Accusing people of planting evidence and arguing about a deep state conspiracy against him.", ">\n\nI’d be hilarious if he copy pasted one of trumps tweets and ended it with JK I’m not a raving lunatic in a middle of a tantrum.", ">\n\nThat would be some great dark Brandon shit.", ">\n\nI am all for a special counsel being appointed. But a Trump appointee feels like an attempt by Garland to bend over backwards to show just how apolitical he is. If he wanted to reach across the aisle, he couldn’t find a Bush appointee rather than someone appointed by a man who literally tried to upend the Republic and is known for appointing partisan hacks?", ">\n\nThis is how Garland has been acting since appointed. It’s like he’s so terrified of being perceived as biased against repubs that he instead acts biased against dems. He has truly been a failure at AG.. even more of a letdown than Mueller", ">\n\nWell, Garland is a conservative….. people think that he must be left wing because Obama nominated him for SCOTUS. NOPE! - he’s right wing and Obama was throwing the GOP a bone. The GOP just hated Obama so fucking much they slapped down a nominee that aligned with them.", ">\n\nTrue, Biden should have appointed someone else", ">\n\nOnly took a year and a half to appoint one for Trump. Also what about that DOJ policy about not investigating and prosecuting a sitting president which protected the former guy for, what, six years now?", ">\n\nGarland is not our friend.", ">\n\nWho’s friend, exactly? What does friendship have to do with accountability to rules and laws?\nAre you suggesting the DOJ should be aligned and friendly with one particular party or another and so they don’t have to follow rules and laws we expect others to comply with?", ">\n\nGarland is not a friend to justice.\nWhy has Trump not been indicted yet? What's the confusion?" ]

[ "Do a complete investigation, gather the evidence, follow all procedures and the law, seek justice without fear or favor no matter who is involved. Figure this mess out.", ">\n\nFully agree - and I'd actually like the investigation to be concluded swiftly since the ones being investigated will likely be 100% cooperative. It's not like DoJ will have to be dealing with full on liars and criminals which takes forever to find the answers.", ">\n\nI 100% agree that there ought to be a reasonable investigation into this but I do have to wonder if any of this matters at all given that Biden is currently the president and therefore has not only the right to have classified information but also the ability to declassify that information.\nNot trying to make excuses for the oversight (or lack thereof) of classified documents, but it seems to me as though this requires an investigation into how classified documents are handled during and after individuals have been given such status and after said status has lapsed.\nLet's be perfectly honest, if they had taken different actions on the first set of documents, we likely wouldn't even know about this because there was nobody searching for them.\nHad Biden and his lawyers actually been seriously corrupt, they could easily have disposed of them in a fireplace or down a toilet and no one would know the better.\nThe fact that they brought this directly to the attention of the proper authorities is at least proof that they do have respect for the rule of law and are willing to except the consequences, even if it is going to be used to make political hay while the sun shines.\nThat said, this likely has huge implications for executive privilege, especially to the extent that the former president argued he had. I personally do not have a problem with the minister of th Office of the President being able to be held accountable for their actions but only if it is equally applied across the board and not just something that we will have to deal with when presidents from the Democratic party are being scrutinized.", ">\n\n\nhas not only the right to have classified information but also the ability to declassify that information.\n\nHe does. But apparently these docs were from his Vice Presidency under Obama. So, it's a bit uncertain.\nAnd it really undermines at least one of the central charges you could have lodged against Trump, that everyone that is able to access classified documents has a substantive responsibility to make sure they are handled appropriately. The \"oh, well, we had to leave in a hurry and things just got mixed up\" arguments Trump could have made before would have had little merit - especially when you consider previous historic cases where even a single doc mishandled ended up with someone in jail.\nBut now Trump will be able to dilute that charge completely. He's still fucked on obstruction and everything else (hopefully).", ">\n\nClassified != Compartmentalized, Top Secret, etc.", ">\n\nI agree with you, but I was recently informed that sources say some of these classified documents were classified Top Secret.\nIt does appear as though ABC is confirming that sources are saying that some of these were top secret documents.\n\nSources also told ABC News that the original batch of about 10 documents found in November contains classified vice-presidential briefing papers about foreign countries, some of which were marked top secret.\n\nAnd CNN is not even using the journalistic term source, going so far as to assert that some of these documents were top secret.\n\nSome of the classified documents were “top secret,” the highest level. They were found in three or four boxes that also contained unclassified papers that fall under the Presidential Records Act, CNN has reported.\n\nIf we are going to maintain Integrity about the treatment of top secret classified documents, it is important to hold both sides accountable for their retention of documents.\nThank goodness that Biden's lawyers were up front with the FBI and NARA rather than lying about the retention of documents and obstructing an investigation.\nI really hope that Biden doesn't try to use the executive privilege argument to keep himself from investigation, but this is likely going to be a permanent stain on his reputation and definitely opens up the presidential field in the Democratic Party for 2024.", ">\n\nWhy would this be a permanent stain on Biden’s reputation?", ">\n\nBecause it will 100% be used along with whataboutism to suggest that Biden was going after Trump for the same thing that he was caught doing, regardless of the fact that Biden was not responsible for the investigation into Trump's documents has not been outspoken about the retention of documents, subsequent Lies by his lawyers, and obstruction.\nI'm not saying that it is going to be fair, or even rational but it is going to cause a stain and that will be used to pillory him.", ">\n\nSo in essence, this is only going to be a stain in the minds of people who are rather brainless to begin with….gotcha", ">\n\nIts a stain because it's political ammunition for the other side, not because you or I see it for the opportunitistically timed political assault that it seems to be. In modern politics, being on the defensive is the same as losing. Hillary Clinton's email fiasco likely contributed to the 2016 election results even though she wasn't indicted for a crime.\nThe people on the other side of the political spectrum who would consider this whole fiasco a stain on Biden AREN'T brainless, they're heavily propogandized, and they DO vote. This whole thing will be used to justify any or all of Trump's conduct that should be immediately disqualifying. Expect this to be split-screened with all of Trump's legal woes.\nHopefully Trump won't make it to the 2024 Election season as a viable candidate. If Trump does make it, Trump will use this against Biden. If Trump loses out to someone like DeSantis, there will be a concerted effort to crucify Biden with it.", ">\n\nMy favorite part of this:\nNo raging tweets from the president making up executive powers. Accusing people of planting evidence and arguing about a deep state conspiracy against him.", ">\n\nI’d be hilarious if he copy pasted one of trumps tweets and ended it with JK I’m not a raving lunatic in a middle of a tantrum.", ">\n\nThat would be some great dark Brandon shit.", ">\n\nI am all for a special counsel being appointed. But a Trump appointee feels like an attempt by Garland to bend over backwards to show just how apolitical he is. If he wanted to reach across the aisle, he couldn’t find a Bush appointee rather than someone appointed by a man who literally tried to upend the Republic and is known for appointing partisan hacks?", ">\n\nThis is how Garland has been acting since appointed. It’s like he’s so terrified of being perceived as biased against repubs that he instead acts biased against dems. He has truly been a failure at AG.. even more of a letdown than Mueller", ">\n\nWell, Garland is a conservative….. people think that he must be left wing because Obama nominated him for SCOTUS. NOPE! - he’s right wing and Obama was throwing the GOP a bone. The GOP just hated Obama so fucking much they slapped down a nominee that aligned with them.", ">\n\nTrue, Biden should have appointed someone else", ">\n\nOnly took a year and a half to appoint one for Trump. Also what about that DOJ policy about not investigating and prosecuting a sitting president which protected the former guy for, what, six years now?", ">\n\nGarland is not our friend.", ">\n\nWho’s friend, exactly? What does friendship have to do with accountability to rules and laws?\nAre you suggesting the DOJ should be aligned and friendly with one particular party or another and so they don’t have to follow rules and laws we expect others to comply with?", ">\n\nGarland is not a friend to justice.\nWhy has Trump not been indicted yet? What's the confusion?", ">\n\n\nWhy has Trump not been indicted yet?\n\nwhy would you expect him to have been? the investigation isn't over yet" ]

[ "Do a complete investigation, gather the evidence, follow all procedures and the law, seek justice without fear or favor no matter who is involved. Figure this mess out.", ">\n\nFully agree - and I'd actually like the investigation to be concluded swiftly since the ones being investigated will likely be 100% cooperative. It's not like DoJ will have to be dealing with full on liars and criminals which takes forever to find the answers.", ">\n\nI 100% agree that there ought to be a reasonable investigation into this but I do have to wonder if any of this matters at all given that Biden is currently the president and therefore has not only the right to have classified information but also the ability to declassify that information.\nNot trying to make excuses for the oversight (or lack thereof) of classified documents, but it seems to me as though this requires an investigation into how classified documents are handled during and after individuals have been given such status and after said status has lapsed.\nLet's be perfectly honest, if they had taken different actions on the first set of documents, we likely wouldn't even know about this because there was nobody searching for them.\nHad Biden and his lawyers actually been seriously corrupt, they could easily have disposed of them in a fireplace or down a toilet and no one would know the better.\nThe fact that they brought this directly to the attention of the proper authorities is at least proof that they do have respect for the rule of law and are willing to except the consequences, even if it is going to be used to make political hay while the sun shines.\nThat said, this likely has huge implications for executive privilege, especially to the extent that the former president argued he had. I personally do not have a problem with the minister of th Office of the President being able to be held accountable for their actions but only if it is equally applied across the board and not just something that we will have to deal with when presidents from the Democratic party are being scrutinized.", ">\n\n\nhas not only the right to have classified information but also the ability to declassify that information.\n\nHe does. But apparently these docs were from his Vice Presidency under Obama. So, it's a bit uncertain.\nAnd it really undermines at least one of the central charges you could have lodged against Trump, that everyone that is able to access classified documents has a substantive responsibility to make sure they are handled appropriately. The \"oh, well, we had to leave in a hurry and things just got mixed up\" arguments Trump could have made before would have had little merit - especially when you consider previous historic cases where even a single doc mishandled ended up with someone in jail.\nBut now Trump will be able to dilute that charge completely. He's still fucked on obstruction and everything else (hopefully).", ">\n\nClassified != Compartmentalized, Top Secret, etc.", ">\n\nI agree with you, but I was recently informed that sources say some of these classified documents were classified Top Secret.\nIt does appear as though ABC is confirming that sources are saying that some of these were top secret documents.\n\nSources also told ABC News that the original batch of about 10 documents found in November contains classified vice-presidential briefing papers about foreign countries, some of which were marked top secret.\n\nAnd CNN is not even using the journalistic term source, going so far as to assert that some of these documents were top secret.\n\nSome of the classified documents were “top secret,” the highest level. They were found in three or four boxes that also contained unclassified papers that fall under the Presidential Records Act, CNN has reported.\n\nIf we are going to maintain Integrity about the treatment of top secret classified documents, it is important to hold both sides accountable for their retention of documents.\nThank goodness that Biden's lawyers were up front with the FBI and NARA rather than lying about the retention of documents and obstructing an investigation.\nI really hope that Biden doesn't try to use the executive privilege argument to keep himself from investigation, but this is likely going to be a permanent stain on his reputation and definitely opens up the presidential field in the Democratic Party for 2024.", ">\n\nWhy would this be a permanent stain on Biden’s reputation?", ">\n\nBecause it will 100% be used along with whataboutism to suggest that Biden was going after Trump for the same thing that he was caught doing, regardless of the fact that Biden was not responsible for the investigation into Trump's documents has not been outspoken about the retention of documents, subsequent Lies by his lawyers, and obstruction.\nI'm not saying that it is going to be fair, or even rational but it is going to cause a stain and that will be used to pillory him.", ">\n\nSo in essence, this is only going to be a stain in the minds of people who are rather brainless to begin with….gotcha", ">\n\nIts a stain because it's political ammunition for the other side, not because you or I see it for the opportunitistically timed political assault that it seems to be. In modern politics, being on the defensive is the same as losing. Hillary Clinton's email fiasco likely contributed to the 2016 election results even though she wasn't indicted for a crime.\nThe people on the other side of the political spectrum who would consider this whole fiasco a stain on Biden AREN'T brainless, they're heavily propogandized, and they DO vote. This whole thing will be used to justify any or all of Trump's conduct that should be immediately disqualifying. Expect this to be split-screened with all of Trump's legal woes.\nHopefully Trump won't make it to the 2024 Election season as a viable candidate. If Trump does make it, Trump will use this against Biden. If Trump loses out to someone like DeSantis, there will be a concerted effort to crucify Biden with it.", ">\n\nMy favorite part of this:\nNo raging tweets from the president making up executive powers. Accusing people of planting evidence and arguing about a deep state conspiracy against him.", ">\n\nI’d be hilarious if he copy pasted one of trumps tweets and ended it with JK I’m not a raving lunatic in a middle of a tantrum.", ">\n\nThat would be some great dark Brandon shit.", ">\n\nI am all for a special counsel being appointed. But a Trump appointee feels like an attempt by Garland to bend over backwards to show just how apolitical he is. If he wanted to reach across the aisle, he couldn’t find a Bush appointee rather than someone appointed by a man who literally tried to upend the Republic and is known for appointing partisan hacks?", ">\n\nThis is how Garland has been acting since appointed. It’s like he’s so terrified of being perceived as biased against repubs that he instead acts biased against dems. He has truly been a failure at AG.. even more of a letdown than Mueller", ">\n\nWell, Garland is a conservative….. people think that he must be left wing because Obama nominated him for SCOTUS. NOPE! - he’s right wing and Obama was throwing the GOP a bone. The GOP just hated Obama so fucking much they slapped down a nominee that aligned with them.", ">\n\nTrue, Biden should have appointed someone else", ">\n\nOnly took a year and a half to appoint one for Trump. Also what about that DOJ policy about not investigating and prosecuting a sitting president which protected the former guy for, what, six years now?", ">\n\nGarland is not our friend.", ">\n\nWho’s friend, exactly? What does friendship have to do with accountability to rules and laws?\nAre you suggesting the DOJ should be aligned and friendly with one particular party or another and so they don’t have to follow rules and laws we expect others to comply with?", ">\n\nGarland is not a friend to justice.\nWhy has Trump not been indicted yet? What's the confusion?", ">\n\n\nWhy has Trump not been indicted yet?\n\nwhy would you expect him to have been? the investigation isn't over yet", ">\n\nit explains why they weren't indicted in the article" ]

[ "Do a complete investigation, gather the evidence, follow all procedures and the law, seek justice without fear or favor no matter who is involved. Figure this mess out.", ">\n\nFully agree - and I'd actually like the investigation to be concluded swiftly since the ones being investigated will likely be 100% cooperative. It's not like DoJ will have to be dealing with full on liars and criminals which takes forever to find the answers.", ">\n\nI 100% agree that there ought to be a reasonable investigation into this but I do have to wonder if any of this matters at all given that Biden is currently the president and therefore has not only the right to have classified information but also the ability to declassify that information.\nNot trying to make excuses for the oversight (or lack thereof) of classified documents, but it seems to me as though this requires an investigation into how classified documents are handled during and after individuals have been given such status and after said status has lapsed.\nLet's be perfectly honest, if they had taken different actions on the first set of documents, we likely wouldn't even know about this because there was nobody searching for them.\nHad Biden and his lawyers actually been seriously corrupt, they could easily have disposed of them in a fireplace or down a toilet and no one would know the better.\nThe fact that they brought this directly to the attention of the proper authorities is at least proof that they do have respect for the rule of law and are willing to except the consequences, even if it is going to be used to make political hay while the sun shines.\nThat said, this likely has huge implications for executive privilege, especially to the extent that the former president argued he had. I personally do not have a problem with the minister of th Office of the President being able to be held accountable for their actions but only if it is equally applied across the board and not just something that we will have to deal with when presidents from the Democratic party are being scrutinized.", ">\n\n\nhas not only the right to have classified information but also the ability to declassify that information.\n\nHe does. But apparently these docs were from his Vice Presidency under Obama. So, it's a bit uncertain.\nAnd it really undermines at least one of the central charges you could have lodged against Trump, that everyone that is able to access classified documents has a substantive responsibility to make sure they are handled appropriately. The \"oh, well, we had to leave in a hurry and things just got mixed up\" arguments Trump could have made before would have had little merit - especially when you consider previous historic cases where even a single doc mishandled ended up with someone in jail.\nBut now Trump will be able to dilute that charge completely. He's still fucked on obstruction and everything else (hopefully).", ">\n\nClassified != Compartmentalized, Top Secret, etc.", ">\n\nI agree with you, but I was recently informed that sources say some of these classified documents were classified Top Secret.\nIt does appear as though ABC is confirming that sources are saying that some of these were top secret documents.\n\nSources also told ABC News that the original batch of about 10 documents found in November contains classified vice-presidential briefing papers about foreign countries, some of which were marked top secret.\n\nAnd CNN is not even using the journalistic term source, going so far as to assert that some of these documents were top secret.\n\nSome of the classified documents were “top secret,” the highest level. They were found in three or four boxes that also contained unclassified papers that fall under the Presidential Records Act, CNN has reported.\n\nIf we are going to maintain Integrity about the treatment of top secret classified documents, it is important to hold both sides accountable for their retention of documents.\nThank goodness that Biden's lawyers were up front with the FBI and NARA rather than lying about the retention of documents and obstructing an investigation.\nI really hope that Biden doesn't try to use the executive privilege argument to keep himself from investigation, but this is likely going to be a permanent stain on his reputation and definitely opens up the presidential field in the Democratic Party for 2024.", ">\n\nWhy would this be a permanent stain on Biden’s reputation?", ">\n\nBecause it will 100% be used along with whataboutism to suggest that Biden was going after Trump for the same thing that he was caught doing, regardless of the fact that Biden was not responsible for the investigation into Trump's documents has not been outspoken about the retention of documents, subsequent Lies by his lawyers, and obstruction.\nI'm not saying that it is going to be fair, or even rational but it is going to cause a stain and that will be used to pillory him.", ">\n\nSo in essence, this is only going to be a stain in the minds of people who are rather brainless to begin with….gotcha", ">\n\nIts a stain because it's political ammunition for the other side, not because you or I see it for the opportunitistically timed political assault that it seems to be. In modern politics, being on the defensive is the same as losing. Hillary Clinton's email fiasco likely contributed to the 2016 election results even though she wasn't indicted for a crime.\nThe people on the other side of the political spectrum who would consider this whole fiasco a stain on Biden AREN'T brainless, they're heavily propogandized, and they DO vote. This whole thing will be used to justify any or all of Trump's conduct that should be immediately disqualifying. Expect this to be split-screened with all of Trump's legal woes.\nHopefully Trump won't make it to the 2024 Election season as a viable candidate. If Trump does make it, Trump will use this against Biden. If Trump loses out to someone like DeSantis, there will be a concerted effort to crucify Biden with it.", ">\n\nMy favorite part of this:\nNo raging tweets from the president making up executive powers. Accusing people of planting evidence and arguing about a deep state conspiracy against him.", ">\n\nI’d be hilarious if he copy pasted one of trumps tweets and ended it with JK I’m not a raving lunatic in a middle of a tantrum.", ">\n\nThat would be some great dark Brandon shit.", ">\n\nI am all for a special counsel being appointed. But a Trump appointee feels like an attempt by Garland to bend over backwards to show just how apolitical he is. If he wanted to reach across the aisle, he couldn’t find a Bush appointee rather than someone appointed by a man who literally tried to upend the Republic and is known for appointing partisan hacks?", ">\n\nThis is how Garland has been acting since appointed. It’s like he’s so terrified of being perceived as biased against repubs that he instead acts biased against dems. He has truly been a failure at AG.. even more of a letdown than Mueller", ">\n\nWell, Garland is a conservative….. people think that he must be left wing because Obama nominated him for SCOTUS. NOPE! - he’s right wing and Obama was throwing the GOP a bone. The GOP just hated Obama so fucking much they slapped down a nominee that aligned with them.", ">\n\nTrue, Biden should have appointed someone else", ">\n\nOnly took a year and a half to appoint one for Trump. Also what about that DOJ policy about not investigating and prosecuting a sitting president which protected the former guy for, what, six years now?", ">\n\nGarland is not our friend.", ">\n\nWho’s friend, exactly? What does friendship have to do with accountability to rules and laws?\nAre you suggesting the DOJ should be aligned and friendly with one particular party or another and so they don’t have to follow rules and laws we expect others to comply with?", ">\n\nGarland is not a friend to justice.\nWhy has Trump not been indicted yet? What's the confusion?", ">\n\n\nWhy has Trump not been indicted yet?\n\nwhy would you expect him to have been? the investigation isn't over yet", ">\n\nit explains why they weren't indicted in the article", ">\n\nSome anonymous lawyer being quoted by CNN is not a definitive explanation at all. It's hearsay and well-meaning bullshit. But when the DOJ was asked? \"A spokesperson for the Department of Justice declined to comment.\" But if you do believe that anonymous source, do you really think they have executive privilege, as your source says? How TF do \"advisors\" get privilege?" ]

[ "Do a complete investigation, gather the evidence, follow all procedures and the law, seek justice without fear or favor no matter who is involved. Figure this mess out.", ">\n\nFully agree - and I'd actually like the investigation to be concluded swiftly since the ones being investigated will likely be 100% cooperative. It's not like DoJ will have to be dealing with full on liars and criminals which takes forever to find the answers.", ">\n\nI 100% agree that there ought to be a reasonable investigation into this but I do have to wonder if any of this matters at all given that Biden is currently the president and therefore has not only the right to have classified information but also the ability to declassify that information.\nNot trying to make excuses for the oversight (or lack thereof) of classified documents, but it seems to me as though this requires an investigation into how classified documents are handled during and after individuals have been given such status and after said status has lapsed.\nLet's be perfectly honest, if they had taken different actions on the first set of documents, we likely wouldn't even know about this because there was nobody searching for them.\nHad Biden and his lawyers actually been seriously corrupt, they could easily have disposed of them in a fireplace or down a toilet and no one would know the better.\nThe fact that they brought this directly to the attention of the proper authorities is at least proof that they do have respect for the rule of law and are willing to except the consequences, even if it is going to be used to make political hay while the sun shines.\nThat said, this likely has huge implications for executive privilege, especially to the extent that the former president argued he had. I personally do not have a problem with the minister of th Office of the President being able to be held accountable for their actions but only if it is equally applied across the board and not just something that we will have to deal with when presidents from the Democratic party are being scrutinized.", ">\n\n\nhas not only the right to have classified information but also the ability to declassify that information.\n\nHe does. But apparently these docs were from his Vice Presidency under Obama. So, it's a bit uncertain.\nAnd it really undermines at least one of the central charges you could have lodged against Trump, that everyone that is able to access classified documents has a substantive responsibility to make sure they are handled appropriately. The \"oh, well, we had to leave in a hurry and things just got mixed up\" arguments Trump could have made before would have had little merit - especially when you consider previous historic cases where even a single doc mishandled ended up with someone in jail.\nBut now Trump will be able to dilute that charge completely. He's still fucked on obstruction and everything else (hopefully).", ">\n\nClassified != Compartmentalized, Top Secret, etc.", ">\n\nI agree with you, but I was recently informed that sources say some of these classified documents were classified Top Secret.\nIt does appear as though ABC is confirming that sources are saying that some of these were top secret documents.\n\nSources also told ABC News that the original batch of about 10 documents found in November contains classified vice-presidential briefing papers about foreign countries, some of which were marked top secret.\n\nAnd CNN is not even using the journalistic term source, going so far as to assert that some of these documents were top secret.\n\nSome of the classified documents were “top secret,” the highest level. They were found in three or four boxes that also contained unclassified papers that fall under the Presidential Records Act, CNN has reported.\n\nIf we are going to maintain Integrity about the treatment of top secret classified documents, it is important to hold both sides accountable for their retention of documents.\nThank goodness that Biden's lawyers were up front with the FBI and NARA rather than lying about the retention of documents and obstructing an investigation.\nI really hope that Biden doesn't try to use the executive privilege argument to keep himself from investigation, but this is likely going to be a permanent stain on his reputation and definitely opens up the presidential field in the Democratic Party for 2024.", ">\n\nWhy would this be a permanent stain on Biden’s reputation?", ">\n\nBecause it will 100% be used along with whataboutism to suggest that Biden was going after Trump for the same thing that he was caught doing, regardless of the fact that Biden was not responsible for the investigation into Trump's documents has not been outspoken about the retention of documents, subsequent Lies by his lawyers, and obstruction.\nI'm not saying that it is going to be fair, or even rational but it is going to cause a stain and that will be used to pillory him.", ">\n\nSo in essence, this is only going to be a stain in the minds of people who are rather brainless to begin with….gotcha", ">\n\nIts a stain because it's political ammunition for the other side, not because you or I see it for the opportunitistically timed political assault that it seems to be. In modern politics, being on the defensive is the same as losing. Hillary Clinton's email fiasco likely contributed to the 2016 election results even though she wasn't indicted for a crime.\nThe people on the other side of the political spectrum who would consider this whole fiasco a stain on Biden AREN'T brainless, they're heavily propogandized, and they DO vote. This whole thing will be used to justify any or all of Trump's conduct that should be immediately disqualifying. Expect this to be split-screened with all of Trump's legal woes.\nHopefully Trump won't make it to the 2024 Election season as a viable candidate. If Trump does make it, Trump will use this against Biden. If Trump loses out to someone like DeSantis, there will be a concerted effort to crucify Biden with it.", ">\n\nMy favorite part of this:\nNo raging tweets from the president making up executive powers. Accusing people of planting evidence and arguing about a deep state conspiracy against him.", ">\n\nI’d be hilarious if he copy pasted one of trumps tweets and ended it with JK I’m not a raving lunatic in a middle of a tantrum.", ">\n\nThat would be some great dark Brandon shit.", ">\n\nI am all for a special counsel being appointed. But a Trump appointee feels like an attempt by Garland to bend over backwards to show just how apolitical he is. If he wanted to reach across the aisle, he couldn’t find a Bush appointee rather than someone appointed by a man who literally tried to upend the Republic and is known for appointing partisan hacks?", ">\n\nThis is how Garland has been acting since appointed. It’s like he’s so terrified of being perceived as biased against repubs that he instead acts biased against dems. He has truly been a failure at AG.. even more of a letdown than Mueller", ">\n\nWell, Garland is a conservative….. people think that he must be left wing because Obama nominated him for SCOTUS. NOPE! - he’s right wing and Obama was throwing the GOP a bone. The GOP just hated Obama so fucking much they slapped down a nominee that aligned with them.", ">\n\nTrue, Biden should have appointed someone else", ">\n\nOnly took a year and a half to appoint one for Trump. Also what about that DOJ policy about not investigating and prosecuting a sitting president which protected the former guy for, what, six years now?", ">\n\nGarland is not our friend.", ">\n\nWho’s friend, exactly? What does friendship have to do with accountability to rules and laws?\nAre you suggesting the DOJ should be aligned and friendly with one particular party or another and so they don’t have to follow rules and laws we expect others to comply with?", ">\n\nGarland is not a friend to justice.\nWhy has Trump not been indicted yet? What's the confusion?", ">\n\n\nWhy has Trump not been indicted yet?\n\nwhy would you expect him to have been? the investigation isn't over yet", ">\n\nit explains why they weren't indicted in the article", ">\n\nSome anonymous lawyer being quoted by CNN is not a definitive explanation at all. It's hearsay and well-meaning bullshit. But when the DOJ was asked? \"A spokesperson for the Department of Justice declined to comment.\" But if you do believe that anonymous source, do you really think they have executive privilege, as your source says? How TF do \"advisors\" get privilege?", ">\n\nthey worked in the White House" ]

[ "Do a complete investigation, gather the evidence, follow all procedures and the law, seek justice without fear or favor no matter who is involved. Figure this mess out.", ">\n\nFully agree - and I'd actually like the investigation to be concluded swiftly since the ones being investigated will likely be 100% cooperative. It's not like DoJ will have to be dealing with full on liars and criminals which takes forever to find the answers.", ">\n\nI 100% agree that there ought to be a reasonable investigation into this but I do have to wonder if any of this matters at all given that Biden is currently the president and therefore has not only the right to have classified information but also the ability to declassify that information.\nNot trying to make excuses for the oversight (or lack thereof) of classified documents, but it seems to me as though this requires an investigation into how classified documents are handled during and after individuals have been given such status and after said status has lapsed.\nLet's be perfectly honest, if they had taken different actions on the first set of documents, we likely wouldn't even know about this because there was nobody searching for them.\nHad Biden and his lawyers actually been seriously corrupt, they could easily have disposed of them in a fireplace or down a toilet and no one would know the better.\nThe fact that they brought this directly to the attention of the proper authorities is at least proof that they do have respect for the rule of law and are willing to except the consequences, even if it is going to be used to make political hay while the sun shines.\nThat said, this likely has huge implications for executive privilege, especially to the extent that the former president argued he had. I personally do not have a problem with the minister of th Office of the President being able to be held accountable for their actions but only if it is equally applied across the board and not just something that we will have to deal with when presidents from the Democratic party are being scrutinized.", ">\n\n\nhas not only the right to have classified information but also the ability to declassify that information.\n\nHe does. But apparently these docs were from his Vice Presidency under Obama. So, it's a bit uncertain.\nAnd it really undermines at least one of the central charges you could have lodged against Trump, that everyone that is able to access classified documents has a substantive responsibility to make sure they are handled appropriately. The \"oh, well, we had to leave in a hurry and things just got mixed up\" arguments Trump could have made before would have had little merit - especially when you consider previous historic cases where even a single doc mishandled ended up with someone in jail.\nBut now Trump will be able to dilute that charge completely. He's still fucked on obstruction and everything else (hopefully).", ">\n\nClassified != Compartmentalized, Top Secret, etc.", ">\n\nI agree with you, but I was recently informed that sources say some of these classified documents were classified Top Secret.\nIt does appear as though ABC is confirming that sources are saying that some of these were top secret documents.\n\nSources also told ABC News that the original batch of about 10 documents found in November contains classified vice-presidential briefing papers about foreign countries, some of which were marked top secret.\n\nAnd CNN is not even using the journalistic term source, going so far as to assert that some of these documents were top secret.\n\nSome of the classified documents were “top secret,” the highest level. They were found in three or four boxes that also contained unclassified papers that fall under the Presidential Records Act, CNN has reported.\n\nIf we are going to maintain Integrity about the treatment of top secret classified documents, it is important to hold both sides accountable for their retention of documents.\nThank goodness that Biden's lawyers were up front with the FBI and NARA rather than lying about the retention of documents and obstructing an investigation.\nI really hope that Biden doesn't try to use the executive privilege argument to keep himself from investigation, but this is likely going to be a permanent stain on his reputation and definitely opens up the presidential field in the Democratic Party for 2024.", ">\n\nWhy would this be a permanent stain on Biden’s reputation?", ">\n\nBecause it will 100% be used along with whataboutism to suggest that Biden was going after Trump for the same thing that he was caught doing, regardless of the fact that Biden was not responsible for the investigation into Trump's documents has not been outspoken about the retention of documents, subsequent Lies by his lawyers, and obstruction.\nI'm not saying that it is going to be fair, or even rational but it is going to cause a stain and that will be used to pillory him.", ">\n\nSo in essence, this is only going to be a stain in the minds of people who are rather brainless to begin with….gotcha", ">\n\nIts a stain because it's political ammunition for the other side, not because you or I see it for the opportunitistically timed political assault that it seems to be. In modern politics, being on the defensive is the same as losing. Hillary Clinton's email fiasco likely contributed to the 2016 election results even though she wasn't indicted for a crime.\nThe people on the other side of the political spectrum who would consider this whole fiasco a stain on Biden AREN'T brainless, they're heavily propogandized, and they DO vote. This whole thing will be used to justify any or all of Trump's conduct that should be immediately disqualifying. Expect this to be split-screened with all of Trump's legal woes.\nHopefully Trump won't make it to the 2024 Election season as a viable candidate. If Trump does make it, Trump will use this against Biden. If Trump loses out to someone like DeSantis, there will be a concerted effort to crucify Biden with it.", ">\n\nMy favorite part of this:\nNo raging tweets from the president making up executive powers. Accusing people of planting evidence and arguing about a deep state conspiracy against him.", ">\n\nI’d be hilarious if he copy pasted one of trumps tweets and ended it with JK I’m not a raving lunatic in a middle of a tantrum.", ">\n\nThat would be some great dark Brandon shit.", ">\n\nI am all for a special counsel being appointed. But a Trump appointee feels like an attempt by Garland to bend over backwards to show just how apolitical he is. If he wanted to reach across the aisle, he couldn’t find a Bush appointee rather than someone appointed by a man who literally tried to upend the Republic and is known for appointing partisan hacks?", ">\n\nThis is how Garland has been acting since appointed. It’s like he’s so terrified of being perceived as biased against repubs that he instead acts biased against dems. He has truly been a failure at AG.. even more of a letdown than Mueller", ">\n\nWell, Garland is a conservative….. people think that he must be left wing because Obama nominated him for SCOTUS. NOPE! - he’s right wing and Obama was throwing the GOP a bone. The GOP just hated Obama so fucking much they slapped down a nominee that aligned with them.", ">\n\nTrue, Biden should have appointed someone else", ">\n\nOnly took a year and a half to appoint one for Trump. Also what about that DOJ policy about not investigating and prosecuting a sitting president which protected the former guy for, what, six years now?", ">\n\nGarland is not our friend.", ">\n\nWho’s friend, exactly? What does friendship have to do with accountability to rules and laws?\nAre you suggesting the DOJ should be aligned and friendly with one particular party or another and so they don’t have to follow rules and laws we expect others to comply with?", ">\n\nGarland is not a friend to justice.\nWhy has Trump not been indicted yet? What's the confusion?", ">\n\n\nWhy has Trump not been indicted yet?\n\nwhy would you expect him to have been? the investigation isn't over yet", ">\n\nit explains why they weren't indicted in the article", ">\n\nSome anonymous lawyer being quoted by CNN is not a definitive explanation at all. It's hearsay and well-meaning bullshit. But when the DOJ was asked? \"A spokesperson for the Department of Justice declined to comment.\" But if you do believe that anonymous source, do you really think they have executive privilege, as your source says? How TF do \"advisors\" get privilege?", ">\n\nthey worked in the White House", ">\n\nBad enough that everyone bought that crap, \"The president is immune to criminal prosecution and subpoenas.\" But now we're going to extend it to anyone who worked in the White House?! Holy cow you can't possibly believe that's a good idea." ]

[ "Do a complete investigation, gather the evidence, follow all procedures and the law, seek justice without fear or favor no matter who is involved. Figure this mess out.", ">\n\nFully agree - and I'd actually like the investigation to be concluded swiftly since the ones being investigated will likely be 100% cooperative. It's not like DoJ will have to be dealing with full on liars and criminals which takes forever to find the answers.", ">\n\nI 100% agree that there ought to be a reasonable investigation into this but I do have to wonder if any of this matters at all given that Biden is currently the president and therefore has not only the right to have classified information but also the ability to declassify that information.\nNot trying to make excuses for the oversight (or lack thereof) of classified documents, but it seems to me as though this requires an investigation into how classified documents are handled during and after individuals have been given such status and after said status has lapsed.\nLet's be perfectly honest, if they had taken different actions on the first set of documents, we likely wouldn't even know about this because there was nobody searching for them.\nHad Biden and his lawyers actually been seriously corrupt, they could easily have disposed of them in a fireplace or down a toilet and no one would know the better.\nThe fact that they brought this directly to the attention of the proper authorities is at least proof that they do have respect for the rule of law and are willing to except the consequences, even if it is going to be used to make political hay while the sun shines.\nThat said, this likely has huge implications for executive privilege, especially to the extent that the former president argued he had. I personally do not have a problem with the minister of th Office of the President being able to be held accountable for their actions but only if it is equally applied across the board and not just something that we will have to deal with when presidents from the Democratic party are being scrutinized.", ">\n\n\nhas not only the right to have classified information but also the ability to declassify that information.\n\nHe does. But apparently these docs were from his Vice Presidency under Obama. So, it's a bit uncertain.\nAnd it really undermines at least one of the central charges you could have lodged against Trump, that everyone that is able to access classified documents has a substantive responsibility to make sure they are handled appropriately. The \"oh, well, we had to leave in a hurry and things just got mixed up\" arguments Trump could have made before would have had little merit - especially when you consider previous historic cases where even a single doc mishandled ended up with someone in jail.\nBut now Trump will be able to dilute that charge completely. He's still fucked on obstruction and everything else (hopefully).", ">\n\nClassified != Compartmentalized, Top Secret, etc.", ">\n\nI agree with you, but I was recently informed that sources say some of these classified documents were classified Top Secret.\nIt does appear as though ABC is confirming that sources are saying that some of these were top secret documents.\n\nSources also told ABC News that the original batch of about 10 documents found in November contains classified vice-presidential briefing papers about foreign countries, some of which were marked top secret.\n\nAnd CNN is not even using the journalistic term source, going so far as to assert that some of these documents were top secret.\n\nSome of the classified documents were “top secret,” the highest level. They were found in three or four boxes that also contained unclassified papers that fall under the Presidential Records Act, CNN has reported.\n\nIf we are going to maintain Integrity about the treatment of top secret classified documents, it is important to hold both sides accountable for their retention of documents.\nThank goodness that Biden's lawyers were up front with the FBI and NARA rather than lying about the retention of documents and obstructing an investigation.\nI really hope that Biden doesn't try to use the executive privilege argument to keep himself from investigation, but this is likely going to be a permanent stain on his reputation and definitely opens up the presidential field in the Democratic Party for 2024.", ">\n\nWhy would this be a permanent stain on Biden’s reputation?", ">\n\nBecause it will 100% be used along with whataboutism to suggest that Biden was going after Trump for the same thing that he was caught doing, regardless of the fact that Biden was not responsible for the investigation into Trump's documents has not been outspoken about the retention of documents, subsequent Lies by his lawyers, and obstruction.\nI'm not saying that it is going to be fair, or even rational but it is going to cause a stain and that will be used to pillory him.", ">\n\nSo in essence, this is only going to be a stain in the minds of people who are rather brainless to begin with….gotcha", ">\n\nIts a stain because it's political ammunition for the other side, not because you or I see it for the opportunitistically timed political assault that it seems to be. In modern politics, being on the defensive is the same as losing. Hillary Clinton's email fiasco likely contributed to the 2016 election results even though she wasn't indicted for a crime.\nThe people on the other side of the political spectrum who would consider this whole fiasco a stain on Biden AREN'T brainless, they're heavily propogandized, and they DO vote. This whole thing will be used to justify any or all of Trump's conduct that should be immediately disqualifying. Expect this to be split-screened with all of Trump's legal woes.\nHopefully Trump won't make it to the 2024 Election season as a viable candidate. If Trump does make it, Trump will use this against Biden. If Trump loses out to someone like DeSantis, there will be a concerted effort to crucify Biden with it.", ">\n\nMy favorite part of this:\nNo raging tweets from the president making up executive powers. Accusing people of planting evidence and arguing about a deep state conspiracy against him.", ">\n\nI’d be hilarious if he copy pasted one of trumps tweets and ended it with JK I’m not a raving lunatic in a middle of a tantrum.", ">\n\nThat would be some great dark Brandon shit.", ">\n\nI am all for a special counsel being appointed. But a Trump appointee feels like an attempt by Garland to bend over backwards to show just how apolitical he is. If he wanted to reach across the aisle, he couldn’t find a Bush appointee rather than someone appointed by a man who literally tried to upend the Republic and is known for appointing partisan hacks?", ">\n\nThis is how Garland has been acting since appointed. It’s like he’s so terrified of being perceived as biased against repubs that he instead acts biased against dems. He has truly been a failure at AG.. even more of a letdown than Mueller", ">\n\nWell, Garland is a conservative….. people think that he must be left wing because Obama nominated him for SCOTUS. NOPE! - he’s right wing and Obama was throwing the GOP a bone. The GOP just hated Obama so fucking much they slapped down a nominee that aligned with them.", ">\n\nTrue, Biden should have appointed someone else", ">\n\nOnly took a year and a half to appoint one for Trump. Also what about that DOJ policy about not investigating and prosecuting a sitting president which protected the former guy for, what, six years now?", ">\n\nGarland is not our friend.", ">\n\nWho’s friend, exactly? What does friendship have to do with accountability to rules and laws?\nAre you suggesting the DOJ should be aligned and friendly with one particular party or another and so they don’t have to follow rules and laws we expect others to comply with?", ">\n\nGarland is not a friend to justice.\nWhy has Trump not been indicted yet? What's the confusion?", ">\n\n\nWhy has Trump not been indicted yet?\n\nwhy would you expect him to have been? the investigation isn't over yet", ">\n\nit explains why they weren't indicted in the article", ">\n\nSome anonymous lawyer being quoted by CNN is not a definitive explanation at all. It's hearsay and well-meaning bullshit. But when the DOJ was asked? \"A spokesperson for the Department of Justice declined to comment.\" But if you do believe that anonymous source, do you really think they have executive privilege, as your source says? How TF do \"advisors\" get privilege?", ">\n\nthey worked in the White House", ">\n\nBad enough that everyone bought that crap, \"The president is immune to criminal prosecution and subpoenas.\" But now we're going to extend it to anyone who worked in the White House?! Holy cow you can't possibly believe that's a good idea.", ">\n\nAs. We. Would. Expect. 🤷‍♂️ \nCan't wait until Biden whines, makes excuses, tries to get a special master, claims that they where declassifi...... Oh wait. Dems don't do any of that." ]

[ "Do a complete investigation, gather the evidence, follow all procedures and the law, seek justice without fear or favor no matter who is involved. Figure this mess out.", ">\n\nFully agree - and I'd actually like the investigation to be concluded swiftly since the ones being investigated will likely be 100% cooperative. It's not like DoJ will have to be dealing with full on liars and criminals which takes forever to find the answers.", ">\n\nI 100% agree that there ought to be a reasonable investigation into this but I do have to wonder if any of this matters at all given that Biden is currently the president and therefore has not only the right to have classified information but also the ability to declassify that information.\nNot trying to make excuses for the oversight (or lack thereof) of classified documents, but it seems to me as though this requires an investigation into how classified documents are handled during and after individuals have been given such status and after said status has lapsed.\nLet's be perfectly honest, if they had taken different actions on the first set of documents, we likely wouldn't even know about this because there was nobody searching for them.\nHad Biden and his lawyers actually been seriously corrupt, they could easily have disposed of them in a fireplace or down a toilet and no one would know the better.\nThe fact that they brought this directly to the attention of the proper authorities is at least proof that they do have respect for the rule of law and are willing to except the consequences, even if it is going to be used to make political hay while the sun shines.\nThat said, this likely has huge implications for executive privilege, especially to the extent that the former president argued he had. I personally do not have a problem with the minister of th Office of the President being able to be held accountable for their actions but only if it is equally applied across the board and not just something that we will have to deal with when presidents from the Democratic party are being scrutinized.", ">\n\n\nhas not only the right to have classified information but also the ability to declassify that information.\n\nHe does. But apparently these docs were from his Vice Presidency under Obama. So, it's a bit uncertain.\nAnd it really undermines at least one of the central charges you could have lodged against Trump, that everyone that is able to access classified documents has a substantive responsibility to make sure they are handled appropriately. The \"oh, well, we had to leave in a hurry and things just got mixed up\" arguments Trump could have made before would have had little merit - especially when you consider previous historic cases where even a single doc mishandled ended up with someone in jail.\nBut now Trump will be able to dilute that charge completely. He's still fucked on obstruction and everything else (hopefully).", ">\n\nClassified != Compartmentalized, Top Secret, etc.", ">\n\nI agree with you, but I was recently informed that sources say some of these classified documents were classified Top Secret.\nIt does appear as though ABC is confirming that sources are saying that some of these were top secret documents.\n\nSources also told ABC News that the original batch of about 10 documents found in November contains classified vice-presidential briefing papers about foreign countries, some of which were marked top secret.\n\nAnd CNN is not even using the journalistic term source, going so far as to assert that some of these documents were top secret.\n\nSome of the classified documents were “top secret,” the highest level. They were found in three or four boxes that also contained unclassified papers that fall under the Presidential Records Act, CNN has reported.\n\nIf we are going to maintain Integrity about the treatment of top secret classified documents, it is important to hold both sides accountable for their retention of documents.\nThank goodness that Biden's lawyers were up front with the FBI and NARA rather than lying about the retention of documents and obstructing an investigation.\nI really hope that Biden doesn't try to use the executive privilege argument to keep himself from investigation, but this is likely going to be a permanent stain on his reputation and definitely opens up the presidential field in the Democratic Party for 2024.", ">\n\nWhy would this be a permanent stain on Biden’s reputation?", ">\n\nBecause it will 100% be used along with whataboutism to suggest that Biden was going after Trump for the same thing that he was caught doing, regardless of the fact that Biden was not responsible for the investigation into Trump's documents has not been outspoken about the retention of documents, subsequent Lies by his lawyers, and obstruction.\nI'm not saying that it is going to be fair, or even rational but it is going to cause a stain and that will be used to pillory him.", ">\n\nSo in essence, this is only going to be a stain in the minds of people who are rather brainless to begin with….gotcha", ">\n\nIts a stain because it's political ammunition for the other side, not because you or I see it for the opportunitistically timed political assault that it seems to be. In modern politics, being on the defensive is the same as losing. Hillary Clinton's email fiasco likely contributed to the 2016 election results even though she wasn't indicted for a crime.\nThe people on the other side of the political spectrum who would consider this whole fiasco a stain on Biden AREN'T brainless, they're heavily propogandized, and they DO vote. This whole thing will be used to justify any or all of Trump's conduct that should be immediately disqualifying. Expect this to be split-screened with all of Trump's legal woes.\nHopefully Trump won't make it to the 2024 Election season as a viable candidate. If Trump does make it, Trump will use this against Biden. If Trump loses out to someone like DeSantis, there will be a concerted effort to crucify Biden with it.", ">\n\nMy favorite part of this:\nNo raging tweets from the president making up executive powers. Accusing people of planting evidence and arguing about a deep state conspiracy against him.", ">\n\nI’d be hilarious if he copy pasted one of trumps tweets and ended it with JK I’m not a raving lunatic in a middle of a tantrum.", ">\n\nThat would be some great dark Brandon shit.", ">\n\nI am all for a special counsel being appointed. But a Trump appointee feels like an attempt by Garland to bend over backwards to show just how apolitical he is. If he wanted to reach across the aisle, he couldn’t find a Bush appointee rather than someone appointed by a man who literally tried to upend the Republic and is known for appointing partisan hacks?", ">\n\nThis is how Garland has been acting since appointed. It’s like he’s so terrified of being perceived as biased against repubs that he instead acts biased against dems. He has truly been a failure at AG.. even more of a letdown than Mueller", ">\n\nWell, Garland is a conservative….. people think that he must be left wing because Obama nominated him for SCOTUS. NOPE! - he’s right wing and Obama was throwing the GOP a bone. The GOP just hated Obama so fucking much they slapped down a nominee that aligned with them.", ">\n\nTrue, Biden should have appointed someone else", ">\n\nOnly took a year and a half to appoint one for Trump. Also what about that DOJ policy about not investigating and prosecuting a sitting president which protected the former guy for, what, six years now?", ">\n\nGarland is not our friend.", ">\n\nWho’s friend, exactly? What does friendship have to do with accountability to rules and laws?\nAre you suggesting the DOJ should be aligned and friendly with one particular party or another and so they don’t have to follow rules and laws we expect others to comply with?", ">\n\nGarland is not a friend to justice.\nWhy has Trump not been indicted yet? What's the confusion?", ">\n\n\nWhy has Trump not been indicted yet?\n\nwhy would you expect him to have been? the investigation isn't over yet", ">\n\nit explains why they weren't indicted in the article", ">\n\nSome anonymous lawyer being quoted by CNN is not a definitive explanation at all. It's hearsay and well-meaning bullshit. But when the DOJ was asked? \"A spokesperson for the Department of Justice declined to comment.\" But if you do believe that anonymous source, do you really think they have executive privilege, as your source says? How TF do \"advisors\" get privilege?", ">\n\nthey worked in the White House", ">\n\nBad enough that everyone bought that crap, \"The president is immune to criminal prosecution and subpoenas.\" But now we're going to extend it to anyone who worked in the White House?! Holy cow you can't possibly believe that's a good idea.", ">\n\nAs. We. Would. Expect. 🤷‍♂️ \nCan't wait until Biden whines, makes excuses, tries to get a special master, claims that they where declassifi...... Oh wait. Dems don't do any of that.", ">\n\nIt doesn’t even matter cause republicans don’t care about mishandling classified document- oh wait…now they do." ]

[ "Do a complete investigation, gather the evidence, follow all procedures and the law, seek justice without fear or favor no matter who is involved. Figure this mess out.", ">\n\nFully agree - and I'd actually like the investigation to be concluded swiftly since the ones being investigated will likely be 100% cooperative. It's not like DoJ will have to be dealing with full on liars and criminals which takes forever to find the answers.", ">\n\nI 100% agree that there ought to be a reasonable investigation into this but I do have to wonder if any of this matters at all given that Biden is currently the president and therefore has not only the right to have classified information but also the ability to declassify that information.\nNot trying to make excuses for the oversight (or lack thereof) of classified documents, but it seems to me as though this requires an investigation into how classified documents are handled during and after individuals have been given such status and after said status has lapsed.\nLet's be perfectly honest, if they had taken different actions on the first set of documents, we likely wouldn't even know about this because there was nobody searching for them.\nHad Biden and his lawyers actually been seriously corrupt, they could easily have disposed of them in a fireplace or down a toilet and no one would know the better.\nThe fact that they brought this directly to the attention of the proper authorities is at least proof that they do have respect for the rule of law and are willing to except the consequences, even if it is going to be used to make political hay while the sun shines.\nThat said, this likely has huge implications for executive privilege, especially to the extent that the former president argued he had. I personally do not have a problem with the minister of th Office of the President being able to be held accountable for their actions but only if it is equally applied across the board and not just something that we will have to deal with when presidents from the Democratic party are being scrutinized.", ">\n\n\nhas not only the right to have classified information but also the ability to declassify that information.\n\nHe does. But apparently these docs were from his Vice Presidency under Obama. So, it's a bit uncertain.\nAnd it really undermines at least one of the central charges you could have lodged against Trump, that everyone that is able to access classified documents has a substantive responsibility to make sure they are handled appropriately. The \"oh, well, we had to leave in a hurry and things just got mixed up\" arguments Trump could have made before would have had little merit - especially when you consider previous historic cases where even a single doc mishandled ended up with someone in jail.\nBut now Trump will be able to dilute that charge completely. He's still fucked on obstruction and everything else (hopefully).", ">\n\nClassified != Compartmentalized, Top Secret, etc.", ">\n\nI agree with you, but I was recently informed that sources say some of these classified documents were classified Top Secret.\nIt does appear as though ABC is confirming that sources are saying that some of these were top secret documents.\n\nSources also told ABC News that the original batch of about 10 documents found in November contains classified vice-presidential briefing papers about foreign countries, some of which were marked top secret.\n\nAnd CNN is not even using the journalistic term source, going so far as to assert that some of these documents were top secret.\n\nSome of the classified documents were “top secret,” the highest level. They were found in three or four boxes that also contained unclassified papers that fall under the Presidential Records Act, CNN has reported.\n\nIf we are going to maintain Integrity about the treatment of top secret classified documents, it is important to hold both sides accountable for their retention of documents.\nThank goodness that Biden's lawyers were up front with the FBI and NARA rather than lying about the retention of documents and obstructing an investigation.\nI really hope that Biden doesn't try to use the executive privilege argument to keep himself from investigation, but this is likely going to be a permanent stain on his reputation and definitely opens up the presidential field in the Democratic Party for 2024.", ">\n\nWhy would this be a permanent stain on Biden’s reputation?", ">\n\nBecause it will 100% be used along with whataboutism to suggest that Biden was going after Trump for the same thing that he was caught doing, regardless of the fact that Biden was not responsible for the investigation into Trump's documents has not been outspoken about the retention of documents, subsequent Lies by his lawyers, and obstruction.\nI'm not saying that it is going to be fair, or even rational but it is going to cause a stain and that will be used to pillory him.", ">\n\nSo in essence, this is only going to be a stain in the minds of people who are rather brainless to begin with….gotcha", ">\n\nIts a stain because it's political ammunition for the other side, not because you or I see it for the opportunitistically timed political assault that it seems to be. In modern politics, being on the defensive is the same as losing. Hillary Clinton's email fiasco likely contributed to the 2016 election results even though she wasn't indicted for a crime.\nThe people on the other side of the political spectrum who would consider this whole fiasco a stain on Biden AREN'T brainless, they're heavily propogandized, and they DO vote. This whole thing will be used to justify any or all of Trump's conduct that should be immediately disqualifying. Expect this to be split-screened with all of Trump's legal woes.\nHopefully Trump won't make it to the 2024 Election season as a viable candidate. If Trump does make it, Trump will use this against Biden. If Trump loses out to someone like DeSantis, there will be a concerted effort to crucify Biden with it.", ">\n\nMy favorite part of this:\nNo raging tweets from the president making up executive powers. Accusing people of planting evidence and arguing about a deep state conspiracy against him.", ">\n\nI’d be hilarious if he copy pasted one of trumps tweets and ended it with JK I’m not a raving lunatic in a middle of a tantrum.", ">\n\nThat would be some great dark Brandon shit.", ">\n\nI am all for a special counsel being appointed. But a Trump appointee feels like an attempt by Garland to bend over backwards to show just how apolitical he is. If he wanted to reach across the aisle, he couldn’t find a Bush appointee rather than someone appointed by a man who literally tried to upend the Republic and is known for appointing partisan hacks?", ">\n\nThis is how Garland has been acting since appointed. It’s like he’s so terrified of being perceived as biased against repubs that he instead acts biased against dems. He has truly been a failure at AG.. even more of a letdown than Mueller", ">\n\nWell, Garland is a conservative….. people think that he must be left wing because Obama nominated him for SCOTUS. NOPE! - he’s right wing and Obama was throwing the GOP a bone. The GOP just hated Obama so fucking much they slapped down a nominee that aligned with them.", ">\n\nTrue, Biden should have appointed someone else", ">\n\nOnly took a year and a half to appoint one for Trump. Also what about that DOJ policy about not investigating and prosecuting a sitting president which protected the former guy for, what, six years now?", ">\n\nGarland is not our friend.", ">\n\nWho’s friend, exactly? What does friendship have to do with accountability to rules and laws?\nAre you suggesting the DOJ should be aligned and friendly with one particular party or another and so they don’t have to follow rules and laws we expect others to comply with?", ">\n\nGarland is not a friend to justice.\nWhy has Trump not been indicted yet? What's the confusion?", ">\n\n\nWhy has Trump not been indicted yet?\n\nwhy would you expect him to have been? the investigation isn't over yet", ">\n\nit explains why they weren't indicted in the article", ">\n\nSome anonymous lawyer being quoted by CNN is not a definitive explanation at all. It's hearsay and well-meaning bullshit. But when the DOJ was asked? \"A spokesperson for the Department of Justice declined to comment.\" But if you do believe that anonymous source, do you really think they have executive privilege, as your source says? How TF do \"advisors\" get privilege?", ">\n\nthey worked in the White House", ">\n\nBad enough that everyone bought that crap, \"The president is immune to criminal prosecution and subpoenas.\" But now we're going to extend it to anyone who worked in the White House?! Holy cow you can't possibly believe that's a good idea.", ">\n\nAs. We. Would. Expect. 🤷‍♂️ \nCan't wait until Biden whines, makes excuses, tries to get a special master, claims that they where declassifi...... Oh wait. Dems don't do any of that.", ">\n\nIt doesn’t even matter cause republicans don’t care about mishandling classified document- oh wait…now they do.", ">\n\nAs a Democrat I am pretty pissed off at Biden for this, but I would be willing to bet he didn't know the documents were there. \nThat said, I am a strong believer in people being punished for breaking the law, even if they are on my \"team.\"\nIf he broke the law, punish him. \nJust make sure that that miserable, racist orange thing that yells all the time gets his as well.\nThis is the only way to have nice things." ]

[ "Do a complete investigation, gather the evidence, follow all procedures and the law, seek justice without fear or favor no matter who is involved. Figure this mess out.", ">\n\nFully agree - and I'd actually like the investigation to be concluded swiftly since the ones being investigated will likely be 100% cooperative. It's not like DoJ will have to be dealing with full on liars and criminals which takes forever to find the answers.", ">\n\nI 100% agree that there ought to be a reasonable investigation into this but I do have to wonder if any of this matters at all given that Biden is currently the president and therefore has not only the right to have classified information but also the ability to declassify that information.\nNot trying to make excuses for the oversight (or lack thereof) of classified documents, but it seems to me as though this requires an investigation into how classified documents are handled during and after individuals have been given such status and after said status has lapsed.\nLet's be perfectly honest, if they had taken different actions on the first set of documents, we likely wouldn't even know about this because there was nobody searching for them.\nHad Biden and his lawyers actually been seriously corrupt, they could easily have disposed of them in a fireplace or down a toilet and no one would know the better.\nThe fact that they brought this directly to the attention of the proper authorities is at least proof that they do have respect for the rule of law and are willing to except the consequences, even if it is going to be used to make political hay while the sun shines.\nThat said, this likely has huge implications for executive privilege, especially to the extent that the former president argued he had. I personally do not have a problem with the minister of th Office of the President being able to be held accountable for their actions but only if it is equally applied across the board and not just something that we will have to deal with when presidents from the Democratic party are being scrutinized.", ">\n\n\nhas not only the right to have classified information but also the ability to declassify that information.\n\nHe does. But apparently these docs were from his Vice Presidency under Obama. So, it's a bit uncertain.\nAnd it really undermines at least one of the central charges you could have lodged against Trump, that everyone that is able to access classified documents has a substantive responsibility to make sure they are handled appropriately. The \"oh, well, we had to leave in a hurry and things just got mixed up\" arguments Trump could have made before would have had little merit - especially when you consider previous historic cases where even a single doc mishandled ended up with someone in jail.\nBut now Trump will be able to dilute that charge completely. He's still fucked on obstruction and everything else (hopefully).", ">\n\nClassified != Compartmentalized, Top Secret, etc.", ">\n\nI agree with you, but I was recently informed that sources say some of these classified documents were classified Top Secret.\nIt does appear as though ABC is confirming that sources are saying that some of these were top secret documents.\n\nSources also told ABC News that the original batch of about 10 documents found in November contains classified vice-presidential briefing papers about foreign countries, some of which were marked top secret.\n\nAnd CNN is not even using the journalistic term source, going so far as to assert that some of these documents were top secret.\n\nSome of the classified documents were “top secret,” the highest level. They were found in three or four boxes that also contained unclassified papers that fall under the Presidential Records Act, CNN has reported.\n\nIf we are going to maintain Integrity about the treatment of top secret classified documents, it is important to hold both sides accountable for their retention of documents.\nThank goodness that Biden's lawyers were up front with the FBI and NARA rather than lying about the retention of documents and obstructing an investigation.\nI really hope that Biden doesn't try to use the executive privilege argument to keep himself from investigation, but this is likely going to be a permanent stain on his reputation and definitely opens up the presidential field in the Democratic Party for 2024.", ">\n\nWhy would this be a permanent stain on Biden’s reputation?", ">\n\nBecause it will 100% be used along with whataboutism to suggest that Biden was going after Trump for the same thing that he was caught doing, regardless of the fact that Biden was not responsible for the investigation into Trump's documents has not been outspoken about the retention of documents, subsequent Lies by his lawyers, and obstruction.\nI'm not saying that it is going to be fair, or even rational but it is going to cause a stain and that will be used to pillory him.", ">\n\nSo in essence, this is only going to be a stain in the minds of people who are rather brainless to begin with….gotcha", ">\n\nIts a stain because it's political ammunition for the other side, not because you or I see it for the opportunitistically timed political assault that it seems to be. In modern politics, being on the defensive is the same as losing. Hillary Clinton's email fiasco likely contributed to the 2016 election results even though she wasn't indicted for a crime.\nThe people on the other side of the political spectrum who would consider this whole fiasco a stain on Biden AREN'T brainless, they're heavily propogandized, and they DO vote. This whole thing will be used to justify any or all of Trump's conduct that should be immediately disqualifying. Expect this to be split-screened with all of Trump's legal woes.\nHopefully Trump won't make it to the 2024 Election season as a viable candidate. If Trump does make it, Trump will use this against Biden. If Trump loses out to someone like DeSantis, there will be a concerted effort to crucify Biden with it.", ">\n\nMy favorite part of this:\nNo raging tweets from the president making up executive powers. Accusing people of planting evidence and arguing about a deep state conspiracy against him.", ">\n\nI’d be hilarious if he copy pasted one of trumps tweets and ended it with JK I’m not a raving lunatic in a middle of a tantrum.", ">\n\nThat would be some great dark Brandon shit.", ">\n\nI am all for a special counsel being appointed. But a Trump appointee feels like an attempt by Garland to bend over backwards to show just how apolitical he is. If he wanted to reach across the aisle, he couldn’t find a Bush appointee rather than someone appointed by a man who literally tried to upend the Republic and is known for appointing partisan hacks?", ">\n\nThis is how Garland has been acting since appointed. It’s like he’s so terrified of being perceived as biased against repubs that he instead acts biased against dems. He has truly been a failure at AG.. even more of a letdown than Mueller", ">\n\nWell, Garland is a conservative….. people think that he must be left wing because Obama nominated him for SCOTUS. NOPE! - he’s right wing and Obama was throwing the GOP a bone. The GOP just hated Obama so fucking much they slapped down a nominee that aligned with them.", ">\n\nTrue, Biden should have appointed someone else", ">\n\nOnly took a year and a half to appoint one for Trump. Also what about that DOJ policy about not investigating and prosecuting a sitting president which protected the former guy for, what, six years now?", ">\n\nGarland is not our friend.", ">\n\nWho’s friend, exactly? What does friendship have to do with accountability to rules and laws?\nAre you suggesting the DOJ should be aligned and friendly with one particular party or another and so they don’t have to follow rules and laws we expect others to comply with?", ">\n\nGarland is not a friend to justice.\nWhy has Trump not been indicted yet? What's the confusion?", ">\n\n\nWhy has Trump not been indicted yet?\n\nwhy would you expect him to have been? the investigation isn't over yet", ">\n\nit explains why they weren't indicted in the article", ">\n\nSome anonymous lawyer being quoted by CNN is not a definitive explanation at all. It's hearsay and well-meaning bullshit. But when the DOJ was asked? \"A spokesperson for the Department of Justice declined to comment.\" But if you do believe that anonymous source, do you really think they have executive privilege, as your source says? How TF do \"advisors\" get privilege?", ">\n\nthey worked in the White House", ">\n\nBad enough that everyone bought that crap, \"The president is immune to criminal prosecution and subpoenas.\" But now we're going to extend it to anyone who worked in the White House?! Holy cow you can't possibly believe that's a good idea.", ">\n\nAs. We. Would. Expect. 🤷‍♂️ \nCan't wait until Biden whines, makes excuses, tries to get a special master, claims that they where declassifi...... Oh wait. Dems don't do any of that.", ">\n\nIt doesn’t even matter cause republicans don’t care about mishandling classified document- oh wait…now they do.", ">\n\nAs a Democrat I am pretty pissed off at Biden for this, but I would be willing to bet he didn't know the documents were there. \nThat said, I am a strong believer in people being punished for breaking the law, even if they are on my \"team.\"\nIf he broke the law, punish him. \nJust make sure that that miserable, racist orange thing that yells all the time gets his as well.\nThis is the only way to have nice things.", ">\n\nBiden isn't asking for a special grand master or looking for a favorable court... weird." ]

[ "Do a complete investigation, gather the evidence, follow all procedures and the law, seek justice without fear or favor no matter who is involved. Figure this mess out.", ">\n\nFully agree - and I'd actually like the investigation to be concluded swiftly since the ones being investigated will likely be 100% cooperative. It's not like DoJ will have to be dealing with full on liars and criminals which takes forever to find the answers.", ">\n\nI 100% agree that there ought to be a reasonable investigation into this but I do have to wonder if any of this matters at all given that Biden is currently the president and therefore has not only the right to have classified information but also the ability to declassify that information.\nNot trying to make excuses for the oversight (or lack thereof) of classified documents, but it seems to me as though this requires an investigation into how classified documents are handled during and after individuals have been given such status and after said status has lapsed.\nLet's be perfectly honest, if they had taken different actions on the first set of documents, we likely wouldn't even know about this because there was nobody searching for them.\nHad Biden and his lawyers actually been seriously corrupt, they could easily have disposed of them in a fireplace or down a toilet and no one would know the better.\nThe fact that they brought this directly to the attention of the proper authorities is at least proof that they do have respect for the rule of law and are willing to except the consequences, even if it is going to be used to make political hay while the sun shines.\nThat said, this likely has huge implications for executive privilege, especially to the extent that the former president argued he had. I personally do not have a problem with the minister of th Office of the President being able to be held accountable for their actions but only if it is equally applied across the board and not just something that we will have to deal with when presidents from the Democratic party are being scrutinized.", ">\n\n\nhas not only the right to have classified information but also the ability to declassify that information.\n\nHe does. But apparently these docs were from his Vice Presidency under Obama. So, it's a bit uncertain.\nAnd it really undermines at least one of the central charges you could have lodged against Trump, that everyone that is able to access classified documents has a substantive responsibility to make sure they are handled appropriately. The \"oh, well, we had to leave in a hurry and things just got mixed up\" arguments Trump could have made before would have had little merit - especially when you consider previous historic cases where even a single doc mishandled ended up with someone in jail.\nBut now Trump will be able to dilute that charge completely. He's still fucked on obstruction and everything else (hopefully).", ">\n\nClassified != Compartmentalized, Top Secret, etc.", ">\n\nI agree with you, but I was recently informed that sources say some of these classified documents were classified Top Secret.\nIt does appear as though ABC is confirming that sources are saying that some of these were top secret documents.\n\nSources also told ABC News that the original batch of about 10 documents found in November contains classified vice-presidential briefing papers about foreign countries, some of which were marked top secret.\n\nAnd CNN is not even using the journalistic term source, going so far as to assert that some of these documents were top secret.\n\nSome of the classified documents were “top secret,” the highest level. They were found in three or four boxes that also contained unclassified papers that fall under the Presidential Records Act, CNN has reported.\n\nIf we are going to maintain Integrity about the treatment of top secret classified documents, it is important to hold both sides accountable for their retention of documents.\nThank goodness that Biden's lawyers were up front with the FBI and NARA rather than lying about the retention of documents and obstructing an investigation.\nI really hope that Biden doesn't try to use the executive privilege argument to keep himself from investigation, but this is likely going to be a permanent stain on his reputation and definitely opens up the presidential field in the Democratic Party for 2024.", ">\n\nWhy would this be a permanent stain on Biden’s reputation?", ">\n\nBecause it will 100% be used along with whataboutism to suggest that Biden was going after Trump for the same thing that he was caught doing, regardless of the fact that Biden was not responsible for the investigation into Trump's documents has not been outspoken about the retention of documents, subsequent Lies by his lawyers, and obstruction.\nI'm not saying that it is going to be fair, or even rational but it is going to cause a stain and that will be used to pillory him.", ">\n\nSo in essence, this is only going to be a stain in the minds of people who are rather brainless to begin with….gotcha", ">\n\nIts a stain because it's political ammunition for the other side, not because you or I see it for the opportunitistically timed political assault that it seems to be. In modern politics, being on the defensive is the same as losing. Hillary Clinton's email fiasco likely contributed to the 2016 election results even though she wasn't indicted for a crime.\nThe people on the other side of the political spectrum who would consider this whole fiasco a stain on Biden AREN'T brainless, they're heavily propogandized, and they DO vote. This whole thing will be used to justify any or all of Trump's conduct that should be immediately disqualifying. Expect this to be split-screened with all of Trump's legal woes.\nHopefully Trump won't make it to the 2024 Election season as a viable candidate. If Trump does make it, Trump will use this against Biden. If Trump loses out to someone like DeSantis, there will be a concerted effort to crucify Biden with it.", ">\n\nMy favorite part of this:\nNo raging tweets from the president making up executive powers. Accusing people of planting evidence and arguing about a deep state conspiracy against him.", ">\n\nI’d be hilarious if he copy pasted one of trumps tweets and ended it with JK I’m not a raving lunatic in a middle of a tantrum.", ">\n\nThat would be some great dark Brandon shit.", ">\n\nI am all for a special counsel being appointed. But a Trump appointee feels like an attempt by Garland to bend over backwards to show just how apolitical he is. If he wanted to reach across the aisle, he couldn’t find a Bush appointee rather than someone appointed by a man who literally tried to upend the Republic and is known for appointing partisan hacks?", ">\n\nThis is how Garland has been acting since appointed. It’s like he’s so terrified of being perceived as biased against repubs that he instead acts biased against dems. He has truly been a failure at AG.. even more of a letdown than Mueller", ">\n\nWell, Garland is a conservative….. people think that he must be left wing because Obama nominated him for SCOTUS. NOPE! - he’s right wing and Obama was throwing the GOP a bone. The GOP just hated Obama so fucking much they slapped down a nominee that aligned with them.", ">\n\nTrue, Biden should have appointed someone else", ">\n\nOnly took a year and a half to appoint one for Trump. Also what about that DOJ policy about not investigating and prosecuting a sitting president which protected the former guy for, what, six years now?", ">\n\nGarland is not our friend.", ">\n\nWho’s friend, exactly? What does friendship have to do with accountability to rules and laws?\nAre you suggesting the DOJ should be aligned and friendly with one particular party or another and so they don’t have to follow rules and laws we expect others to comply with?", ">\n\nGarland is not a friend to justice.\nWhy has Trump not been indicted yet? What's the confusion?", ">\n\n\nWhy has Trump not been indicted yet?\n\nwhy would you expect him to have been? the investigation isn't over yet", ">\n\nit explains why they weren't indicted in the article", ">\n\nSome anonymous lawyer being quoted by CNN is not a definitive explanation at all. It's hearsay and well-meaning bullshit. But when the DOJ was asked? \"A spokesperson for the Department of Justice declined to comment.\" But if you do believe that anonymous source, do you really think they have executive privilege, as your source says? How TF do \"advisors\" get privilege?", ">\n\nthey worked in the White House", ">\n\nBad enough that everyone bought that crap, \"The president is immune to criminal prosecution and subpoenas.\" But now we're going to extend it to anyone who worked in the White House?! Holy cow you can't possibly believe that's a good idea.", ">\n\nAs. We. Would. Expect. 🤷‍♂️ \nCan't wait until Biden whines, makes excuses, tries to get a special master, claims that they where declassifi...... Oh wait. Dems don't do any of that.", ">\n\nIt doesn’t even matter cause republicans don’t care about mishandling classified document- oh wait…now they do.", ">\n\nAs a Democrat I am pretty pissed off at Biden for this, but I would be willing to bet he didn't know the documents were there. \nThat said, I am a strong believer in people being punished for breaking the law, even if they are on my \"team.\"\nIf he broke the law, punish him. \nJust make sure that that miserable, racist orange thing that yells all the time gets his as well.\nThis is the only way to have nice things.", ">\n\nBiden isn't asking for a special grand master or looking for a favorable court... weird.", ">\n\nLove how it took 2 years to do this for trump, and he ain't even president, 2 days for Biden and he is president. \nTo be clear, I'm not saying there shouldn't be an investigation, I'm saying Garland is showing his true colors pretty strongly with the disparity.\nEdit: I'm muting this thread, not trying to get banned for cussing some fool out again. Have a good night y'all." ]

[ "Do a complete investigation, gather the evidence, follow all procedures and the law, seek justice without fear or favor no matter who is involved. Figure this mess out.", ">\n\nFully agree - and I'd actually like the investigation to be concluded swiftly since the ones being investigated will likely be 100% cooperative. It's not like DoJ will have to be dealing with full on liars and criminals which takes forever to find the answers.", ">\n\nI 100% agree that there ought to be a reasonable investigation into this but I do have to wonder if any of this matters at all given that Biden is currently the president and therefore has not only the right to have classified information but also the ability to declassify that information.\nNot trying to make excuses for the oversight (or lack thereof) of classified documents, but it seems to me as though this requires an investigation into how classified documents are handled during and after individuals have been given such status and after said status has lapsed.\nLet's be perfectly honest, if they had taken different actions on the first set of documents, we likely wouldn't even know about this because there was nobody searching for them.\nHad Biden and his lawyers actually been seriously corrupt, they could easily have disposed of them in a fireplace or down a toilet and no one would know the better.\nThe fact that they brought this directly to the attention of the proper authorities is at least proof that they do have respect for the rule of law and are willing to except the consequences, even if it is going to be used to make political hay while the sun shines.\nThat said, this likely has huge implications for executive privilege, especially to the extent that the former president argued he had. I personally do not have a problem with the minister of th Office of the President being able to be held accountable for their actions but only if it is equally applied across the board and not just something that we will have to deal with when presidents from the Democratic party are being scrutinized.", ">\n\n\nhas not only the right to have classified information but also the ability to declassify that information.\n\nHe does. But apparently these docs were from his Vice Presidency under Obama. So, it's a bit uncertain.\nAnd it really undermines at least one of the central charges you could have lodged against Trump, that everyone that is able to access classified documents has a substantive responsibility to make sure they are handled appropriately. The \"oh, well, we had to leave in a hurry and things just got mixed up\" arguments Trump could have made before would have had little merit - especially when you consider previous historic cases where even a single doc mishandled ended up with someone in jail.\nBut now Trump will be able to dilute that charge completely. He's still fucked on obstruction and everything else (hopefully).", ">\n\nClassified != Compartmentalized, Top Secret, etc.", ">\n\nI agree with you, but I was recently informed that sources say some of these classified documents were classified Top Secret.\nIt does appear as though ABC is confirming that sources are saying that some of these were top secret documents.\n\nSources also told ABC News that the original batch of about 10 documents found in November contains classified vice-presidential briefing papers about foreign countries, some of which were marked top secret.\n\nAnd CNN is not even using the journalistic term source, going so far as to assert that some of these documents were top secret.\n\nSome of the classified documents were “top secret,” the highest level. They were found in three or four boxes that also contained unclassified papers that fall under the Presidential Records Act, CNN has reported.\n\nIf we are going to maintain Integrity about the treatment of top secret classified documents, it is important to hold both sides accountable for their retention of documents.\nThank goodness that Biden's lawyers were up front with the FBI and NARA rather than lying about the retention of documents and obstructing an investigation.\nI really hope that Biden doesn't try to use the executive privilege argument to keep himself from investigation, but this is likely going to be a permanent stain on his reputation and definitely opens up the presidential field in the Democratic Party for 2024.", ">\n\nWhy would this be a permanent stain on Biden’s reputation?", ">\n\nBecause it will 100% be used along with whataboutism to suggest that Biden was going after Trump for the same thing that he was caught doing, regardless of the fact that Biden was not responsible for the investigation into Trump's documents has not been outspoken about the retention of documents, subsequent Lies by his lawyers, and obstruction.\nI'm not saying that it is going to be fair, or even rational but it is going to cause a stain and that will be used to pillory him.", ">\n\nSo in essence, this is only going to be a stain in the minds of people who are rather brainless to begin with….gotcha", ">\n\nIts a stain because it's political ammunition for the other side, not because you or I see it for the opportunitistically timed political assault that it seems to be. In modern politics, being on the defensive is the same as losing. Hillary Clinton's email fiasco likely contributed to the 2016 election results even though she wasn't indicted for a crime.\nThe people on the other side of the political spectrum who would consider this whole fiasco a stain on Biden AREN'T brainless, they're heavily propogandized, and they DO vote. This whole thing will be used to justify any or all of Trump's conduct that should be immediately disqualifying. Expect this to be split-screened with all of Trump's legal woes.\nHopefully Trump won't make it to the 2024 Election season as a viable candidate. If Trump does make it, Trump will use this against Biden. If Trump loses out to someone like DeSantis, there will be a concerted effort to crucify Biden with it.", ">\n\nMy favorite part of this:\nNo raging tweets from the president making up executive powers. Accusing people of planting evidence and arguing about a deep state conspiracy against him.", ">\n\nI’d be hilarious if he copy pasted one of trumps tweets and ended it with JK I’m not a raving lunatic in a middle of a tantrum.", ">\n\nThat would be some great dark Brandon shit.", ">\n\nI am all for a special counsel being appointed. But a Trump appointee feels like an attempt by Garland to bend over backwards to show just how apolitical he is. If he wanted to reach across the aisle, he couldn’t find a Bush appointee rather than someone appointed by a man who literally tried to upend the Republic and is known for appointing partisan hacks?", ">\n\nThis is how Garland has been acting since appointed. It’s like he’s so terrified of being perceived as biased against repubs that he instead acts biased against dems. He has truly been a failure at AG.. even more of a letdown than Mueller", ">\n\nWell, Garland is a conservative….. people think that he must be left wing because Obama nominated him for SCOTUS. NOPE! - he’s right wing and Obama was throwing the GOP a bone. The GOP just hated Obama so fucking much they slapped down a nominee that aligned with them.", ">\n\nTrue, Biden should have appointed someone else", ">\n\nOnly took a year and a half to appoint one for Trump. Also what about that DOJ policy about not investigating and prosecuting a sitting president which protected the former guy for, what, six years now?", ">\n\nGarland is not our friend.", ">\n\nWho’s friend, exactly? What does friendship have to do with accountability to rules and laws?\nAre you suggesting the DOJ should be aligned and friendly with one particular party or another and so they don’t have to follow rules and laws we expect others to comply with?", ">\n\nGarland is not a friend to justice.\nWhy has Trump not been indicted yet? What's the confusion?", ">\n\n\nWhy has Trump not been indicted yet?\n\nwhy would you expect him to have been? the investigation isn't over yet", ">\n\nit explains why they weren't indicted in the article", ">\n\nSome anonymous lawyer being quoted by CNN is not a definitive explanation at all. It's hearsay and well-meaning bullshit. But when the DOJ was asked? \"A spokesperson for the Department of Justice declined to comment.\" But if you do believe that anonymous source, do you really think they have executive privilege, as your source says? How TF do \"advisors\" get privilege?", ">\n\nthey worked in the White House", ">\n\nBad enough that everyone bought that crap, \"The president is immune to criminal prosecution and subpoenas.\" But now we're going to extend it to anyone who worked in the White House?! Holy cow you can't possibly believe that's a good idea.", ">\n\nAs. We. Would. Expect. 🤷‍♂️ \nCan't wait until Biden whines, makes excuses, tries to get a special master, claims that they where declassifi...... Oh wait. Dems don't do any of that.", ">\n\nIt doesn’t even matter cause republicans don’t care about mishandling classified document- oh wait…now they do.", ">\n\nAs a Democrat I am pretty pissed off at Biden for this, but I would be willing to bet he didn't know the documents were there. \nThat said, I am a strong believer in people being punished for breaking the law, even if they are on my \"team.\"\nIf he broke the law, punish him. \nJust make sure that that miserable, racist orange thing that yells all the time gets his as well.\nThis is the only way to have nice things.", ">\n\nBiden isn't asking for a special grand master or looking for a favorable court... weird.", ">\n\nLove how it took 2 years to do this for trump, and he ain't even president, 2 days for Biden and he is president. \nTo be clear, I'm not saying there shouldn't be an investigation, I'm saying Garland is showing his true colors pretty strongly with the disparity.\nEdit: I'm muting this thread, not trying to get banned for cussing some fool out again. Have a good night y'all.", ">\n\nThe difference will always be that most democrats are just fine with an investigation. Because they care about good governance instead of personality cults." ]

[ "Do a complete investigation, gather the evidence, follow all procedures and the law, seek justice without fear or favor no matter who is involved. Figure this mess out.", ">\n\nFully agree - and I'd actually like the investigation to be concluded swiftly since the ones being investigated will likely be 100% cooperative. It's not like DoJ will have to be dealing with full on liars and criminals which takes forever to find the answers.", ">\n\nI 100% agree that there ought to be a reasonable investigation into this but I do have to wonder if any of this matters at all given that Biden is currently the president and therefore has not only the right to have classified information but also the ability to declassify that information.\nNot trying to make excuses for the oversight (or lack thereof) of classified documents, but it seems to me as though this requires an investigation into how classified documents are handled during and after individuals have been given such status and after said status has lapsed.\nLet's be perfectly honest, if they had taken different actions on the first set of documents, we likely wouldn't even know about this because there was nobody searching for them.\nHad Biden and his lawyers actually been seriously corrupt, they could easily have disposed of them in a fireplace or down a toilet and no one would know the better.\nThe fact that they brought this directly to the attention of the proper authorities is at least proof that they do have respect for the rule of law and are willing to except the consequences, even if it is going to be used to make political hay while the sun shines.\nThat said, this likely has huge implications for executive privilege, especially to the extent that the former president argued he had. I personally do not have a problem with the minister of th Office of the President being able to be held accountable for their actions but only if it is equally applied across the board and not just something that we will have to deal with when presidents from the Democratic party are being scrutinized.", ">\n\n\nhas not only the right to have classified information but also the ability to declassify that information.\n\nHe does. But apparently these docs were from his Vice Presidency under Obama. So, it's a bit uncertain.\nAnd it really undermines at least one of the central charges you could have lodged against Trump, that everyone that is able to access classified documents has a substantive responsibility to make sure they are handled appropriately. The \"oh, well, we had to leave in a hurry and things just got mixed up\" arguments Trump could have made before would have had little merit - especially when you consider previous historic cases where even a single doc mishandled ended up with someone in jail.\nBut now Trump will be able to dilute that charge completely. He's still fucked on obstruction and everything else (hopefully).", ">\n\nClassified != Compartmentalized, Top Secret, etc.", ">\n\nI agree with you, but I was recently informed that sources say some of these classified documents were classified Top Secret.\nIt does appear as though ABC is confirming that sources are saying that some of these were top secret documents.\n\nSources also told ABC News that the original batch of about 10 documents found in November contains classified vice-presidential briefing papers about foreign countries, some of which were marked top secret.\n\nAnd CNN is not even using the journalistic term source, going so far as to assert that some of these documents were top secret.\n\nSome of the classified documents were “top secret,” the highest level. They were found in three or four boxes that also contained unclassified papers that fall under the Presidential Records Act, CNN has reported.\n\nIf we are going to maintain Integrity about the treatment of top secret classified documents, it is important to hold both sides accountable for their retention of documents.\nThank goodness that Biden's lawyers were up front with the FBI and NARA rather than lying about the retention of documents and obstructing an investigation.\nI really hope that Biden doesn't try to use the executive privilege argument to keep himself from investigation, but this is likely going to be a permanent stain on his reputation and definitely opens up the presidential field in the Democratic Party for 2024.", ">\n\nWhy would this be a permanent stain on Biden’s reputation?", ">\n\nBecause it will 100% be used along with whataboutism to suggest that Biden was going after Trump for the same thing that he was caught doing, regardless of the fact that Biden was not responsible for the investigation into Trump's documents has not been outspoken about the retention of documents, subsequent Lies by his lawyers, and obstruction.\nI'm not saying that it is going to be fair, or even rational but it is going to cause a stain and that will be used to pillory him.", ">\n\nSo in essence, this is only going to be a stain in the minds of people who are rather brainless to begin with….gotcha", ">\n\nIts a stain because it's political ammunition for the other side, not because you or I see it for the opportunitistically timed political assault that it seems to be. In modern politics, being on the defensive is the same as losing. Hillary Clinton's email fiasco likely contributed to the 2016 election results even though she wasn't indicted for a crime.\nThe people on the other side of the political spectrum who would consider this whole fiasco a stain on Biden AREN'T brainless, they're heavily propogandized, and they DO vote. This whole thing will be used to justify any or all of Trump's conduct that should be immediately disqualifying. Expect this to be split-screened with all of Trump's legal woes.\nHopefully Trump won't make it to the 2024 Election season as a viable candidate. If Trump does make it, Trump will use this against Biden. If Trump loses out to someone like DeSantis, there will be a concerted effort to crucify Biden with it.", ">\n\nMy favorite part of this:\nNo raging tweets from the president making up executive powers. Accusing people of planting evidence and arguing about a deep state conspiracy against him.", ">\n\nI’d be hilarious if he copy pasted one of trumps tweets and ended it with JK I’m not a raving lunatic in a middle of a tantrum.", ">\n\nThat would be some great dark Brandon shit.", ">\n\nI am all for a special counsel being appointed. But a Trump appointee feels like an attempt by Garland to bend over backwards to show just how apolitical he is. If he wanted to reach across the aisle, he couldn’t find a Bush appointee rather than someone appointed by a man who literally tried to upend the Republic and is known for appointing partisan hacks?", ">\n\nThis is how Garland has been acting since appointed. It’s like he’s so terrified of being perceived as biased against repubs that he instead acts biased against dems. He has truly been a failure at AG.. even more of a letdown than Mueller", ">\n\nWell, Garland is a conservative….. people think that he must be left wing because Obama nominated him for SCOTUS. NOPE! - he’s right wing and Obama was throwing the GOP a bone. The GOP just hated Obama so fucking much they slapped down a nominee that aligned with them.", ">\n\nTrue, Biden should have appointed someone else", ">\n\nOnly took a year and a half to appoint one for Trump. Also what about that DOJ policy about not investigating and prosecuting a sitting president which protected the former guy for, what, six years now?", ">\n\nGarland is not our friend.", ">\n\nWho’s friend, exactly? What does friendship have to do with accountability to rules and laws?\nAre you suggesting the DOJ should be aligned and friendly with one particular party or another and so they don’t have to follow rules and laws we expect others to comply with?", ">\n\nGarland is not a friend to justice.\nWhy has Trump not been indicted yet? What's the confusion?", ">\n\n\nWhy has Trump not been indicted yet?\n\nwhy would you expect him to have been? the investigation isn't over yet", ">\n\nit explains why they weren't indicted in the article", ">\n\nSome anonymous lawyer being quoted by CNN is not a definitive explanation at all. It's hearsay and well-meaning bullshit. But when the DOJ was asked? \"A spokesperson for the Department of Justice declined to comment.\" But if you do believe that anonymous source, do you really think they have executive privilege, as your source says? How TF do \"advisors\" get privilege?", ">\n\nthey worked in the White House", ">\n\nBad enough that everyone bought that crap, \"The president is immune to criminal prosecution and subpoenas.\" But now we're going to extend it to anyone who worked in the White House?! Holy cow you can't possibly believe that's a good idea.", ">\n\nAs. We. Would. Expect. 🤷‍♂️ \nCan't wait until Biden whines, makes excuses, tries to get a special master, claims that they where declassifi...... Oh wait. Dems don't do any of that.", ">\n\nIt doesn’t even matter cause republicans don’t care about mishandling classified document- oh wait…now they do.", ">\n\nAs a Democrat I am pretty pissed off at Biden for this, but I would be willing to bet he didn't know the documents were there. \nThat said, I am a strong believer in people being punished for breaking the law, even if they are on my \"team.\"\nIf he broke the law, punish him. \nJust make sure that that miserable, racist orange thing that yells all the time gets his as well.\nThis is the only way to have nice things.", ">\n\nBiden isn't asking for a special grand master or looking for a favorable court... weird.", ">\n\nLove how it took 2 years to do this for trump, and he ain't even president, 2 days for Biden and he is president. \nTo be clear, I'm not saying there shouldn't be an investigation, I'm saying Garland is showing his true colors pretty strongly with the disparity.\nEdit: I'm muting this thread, not trying to get banned for cussing some fool out again. Have a good night y'all.", ">\n\nThe difference will always be that most democrats are just fine with an investigation. Because they care about good governance instead of personality cults.", ">\n\nYeah, it's like Goofus and Gallant. Except Goofus wins every other election and beats your head in with a bat." ]

[ "Do a complete investigation, gather the evidence, follow all procedures and the law, seek justice without fear or favor no matter who is involved. Figure this mess out.", ">\n\nFully agree - and I'd actually like the investigation to be concluded swiftly since the ones being investigated will likely be 100% cooperative. It's not like DoJ will have to be dealing with full on liars and criminals which takes forever to find the answers.", ">\n\nI 100% agree that there ought to be a reasonable investigation into this but I do have to wonder if any of this matters at all given that Biden is currently the president and therefore has not only the right to have classified information but also the ability to declassify that information.\nNot trying to make excuses for the oversight (or lack thereof) of classified documents, but it seems to me as though this requires an investigation into how classified documents are handled during and after individuals have been given such status and after said status has lapsed.\nLet's be perfectly honest, if they had taken different actions on the first set of documents, we likely wouldn't even know about this because there was nobody searching for them.\nHad Biden and his lawyers actually been seriously corrupt, they could easily have disposed of them in a fireplace or down a toilet and no one would know the better.\nThe fact that they brought this directly to the attention of the proper authorities is at least proof that they do have respect for the rule of law and are willing to except the consequences, even if it is going to be used to make political hay while the sun shines.\nThat said, this likely has huge implications for executive privilege, especially to the extent that the former president argued he had. I personally do not have a problem with the minister of th Office of the President being able to be held accountable for their actions but only if it is equally applied across the board and not just something that we will have to deal with when presidents from the Democratic party are being scrutinized.", ">\n\n\nhas not only the right to have classified information but also the ability to declassify that information.\n\nHe does. But apparently these docs were from his Vice Presidency under Obama. So, it's a bit uncertain.\nAnd it really undermines at least one of the central charges you could have lodged against Trump, that everyone that is able to access classified documents has a substantive responsibility to make sure they are handled appropriately. The \"oh, well, we had to leave in a hurry and things just got mixed up\" arguments Trump could have made before would have had little merit - especially when you consider previous historic cases where even a single doc mishandled ended up with someone in jail.\nBut now Trump will be able to dilute that charge completely. He's still fucked on obstruction and everything else (hopefully).", ">\n\nClassified != Compartmentalized, Top Secret, etc.", ">\n\nI agree with you, but I was recently informed that sources say some of these classified documents were classified Top Secret.\nIt does appear as though ABC is confirming that sources are saying that some of these were top secret documents.\n\nSources also told ABC News that the original batch of about 10 documents found in November contains classified vice-presidential briefing papers about foreign countries, some of which were marked top secret.\n\nAnd CNN is not even using the journalistic term source, going so far as to assert that some of these documents were top secret.\n\nSome of the classified documents were “top secret,” the highest level. They were found in three or four boxes that also contained unclassified papers that fall under the Presidential Records Act, CNN has reported.\n\nIf we are going to maintain Integrity about the treatment of top secret classified documents, it is important to hold both sides accountable for their retention of documents.\nThank goodness that Biden's lawyers were up front with the FBI and NARA rather than lying about the retention of documents and obstructing an investigation.\nI really hope that Biden doesn't try to use the executive privilege argument to keep himself from investigation, but this is likely going to be a permanent stain on his reputation and definitely opens up the presidential field in the Democratic Party for 2024.", ">\n\nWhy would this be a permanent stain on Biden’s reputation?", ">\n\nBecause it will 100% be used along with whataboutism to suggest that Biden was going after Trump for the same thing that he was caught doing, regardless of the fact that Biden was not responsible for the investigation into Trump's documents has not been outspoken about the retention of documents, subsequent Lies by his lawyers, and obstruction.\nI'm not saying that it is going to be fair, or even rational but it is going to cause a stain and that will be used to pillory him.", ">\n\nSo in essence, this is only going to be a stain in the minds of people who are rather brainless to begin with….gotcha", ">\n\nIts a stain because it's political ammunition for the other side, not because you or I see it for the opportunitistically timed political assault that it seems to be. In modern politics, being on the defensive is the same as losing. Hillary Clinton's email fiasco likely contributed to the 2016 election results even though she wasn't indicted for a crime.\nThe people on the other side of the political spectrum who would consider this whole fiasco a stain on Biden AREN'T brainless, they're heavily propogandized, and they DO vote. This whole thing will be used to justify any or all of Trump's conduct that should be immediately disqualifying. Expect this to be split-screened with all of Trump's legal woes.\nHopefully Trump won't make it to the 2024 Election season as a viable candidate. If Trump does make it, Trump will use this against Biden. If Trump loses out to someone like DeSantis, there will be a concerted effort to crucify Biden with it.", ">\n\nMy favorite part of this:\nNo raging tweets from the president making up executive powers. Accusing people of planting evidence and arguing about a deep state conspiracy against him.", ">\n\nI’d be hilarious if he copy pasted one of trumps tweets and ended it with JK I’m not a raving lunatic in a middle of a tantrum.", ">\n\nThat would be some great dark Brandon shit.", ">\n\nI am all for a special counsel being appointed. But a Trump appointee feels like an attempt by Garland to bend over backwards to show just how apolitical he is. If he wanted to reach across the aisle, he couldn’t find a Bush appointee rather than someone appointed by a man who literally tried to upend the Republic and is known for appointing partisan hacks?", ">\n\nThis is how Garland has been acting since appointed. It’s like he’s so terrified of being perceived as biased against repubs that he instead acts biased against dems. He has truly been a failure at AG.. even more of a letdown than Mueller", ">\n\nWell, Garland is a conservative….. people think that he must be left wing because Obama nominated him for SCOTUS. NOPE! - he’s right wing and Obama was throwing the GOP a bone. The GOP just hated Obama so fucking much they slapped down a nominee that aligned with them.", ">\n\nTrue, Biden should have appointed someone else", ">\n\nOnly took a year and a half to appoint one for Trump. Also what about that DOJ policy about not investigating and prosecuting a sitting president which protected the former guy for, what, six years now?", ">\n\nGarland is not our friend.", ">\n\nWho’s friend, exactly? What does friendship have to do with accountability to rules and laws?\nAre you suggesting the DOJ should be aligned and friendly with one particular party or another and so they don’t have to follow rules and laws we expect others to comply with?", ">\n\nGarland is not a friend to justice.\nWhy has Trump not been indicted yet? What's the confusion?", ">\n\n\nWhy has Trump not been indicted yet?\n\nwhy would you expect him to have been? the investigation isn't over yet", ">\n\nit explains why they weren't indicted in the article", ">\n\nSome anonymous lawyer being quoted by CNN is not a definitive explanation at all. It's hearsay and well-meaning bullshit. But when the DOJ was asked? \"A spokesperson for the Department of Justice declined to comment.\" But if you do believe that anonymous source, do you really think they have executive privilege, as your source says? How TF do \"advisors\" get privilege?", ">\n\nthey worked in the White House", ">\n\nBad enough that everyone bought that crap, \"The president is immune to criminal prosecution and subpoenas.\" But now we're going to extend it to anyone who worked in the White House?! Holy cow you can't possibly believe that's a good idea.", ">\n\nAs. We. Would. Expect. 🤷‍♂️ \nCan't wait until Biden whines, makes excuses, tries to get a special master, claims that they where declassifi...... Oh wait. Dems don't do any of that.", ">\n\nIt doesn’t even matter cause republicans don’t care about mishandling classified document- oh wait…now they do.", ">\n\nAs a Democrat I am pretty pissed off at Biden for this, but I would be willing to bet he didn't know the documents were there. \nThat said, I am a strong believer in people being punished for breaking the law, even if they are on my \"team.\"\nIf he broke the law, punish him. \nJust make sure that that miserable, racist orange thing that yells all the time gets his as well.\nThis is the only way to have nice things.", ">\n\nBiden isn't asking for a special grand master or looking for a favorable court... weird.", ">\n\nLove how it took 2 years to do this for trump, and he ain't even president, 2 days for Biden and he is president. \nTo be clear, I'm not saying there shouldn't be an investigation, I'm saying Garland is showing his true colors pretty strongly with the disparity.\nEdit: I'm muting this thread, not trying to get banned for cussing some fool out again. Have a good night y'all.", ">\n\nThe difference will always be that most democrats are just fine with an investigation. Because they care about good governance instead of personality cults.", ">\n\nYeah, it's like Goofus and Gallant. Except Goofus wins every other election and beats your head in with a bat.", ">\n\nWeird how Garland can move with lightning speed when it’s a cover-your-ass political move. Lightning speed." ]

[ "Do a complete investigation, gather the evidence, follow all procedures and the law, seek justice without fear or favor no matter who is involved. Figure this mess out.", ">\n\nFully agree - and I'd actually like the investigation to be concluded swiftly since the ones being investigated will likely be 100% cooperative. It's not like DoJ will have to be dealing with full on liars and criminals which takes forever to find the answers.", ">\n\nI 100% agree that there ought to be a reasonable investigation into this but I do have to wonder if any of this matters at all given that Biden is currently the president and therefore has not only the right to have classified information but also the ability to declassify that information.\nNot trying to make excuses for the oversight (or lack thereof) of classified documents, but it seems to me as though this requires an investigation into how classified documents are handled during and after individuals have been given such status and after said status has lapsed.\nLet's be perfectly honest, if they had taken different actions on the first set of documents, we likely wouldn't even know about this because there was nobody searching for them.\nHad Biden and his lawyers actually been seriously corrupt, they could easily have disposed of them in a fireplace or down a toilet and no one would know the better.\nThe fact that they brought this directly to the attention of the proper authorities is at least proof that they do have respect for the rule of law and are willing to except the consequences, even if it is going to be used to make political hay while the sun shines.\nThat said, this likely has huge implications for executive privilege, especially to the extent that the former president argued he had. I personally do not have a problem with the minister of th Office of the President being able to be held accountable for their actions but only if it is equally applied across the board and not just something that we will have to deal with when presidents from the Democratic party are being scrutinized.", ">\n\n\nhas not only the right to have classified information but also the ability to declassify that information.\n\nHe does. But apparently these docs were from his Vice Presidency under Obama. So, it's a bit uncertain.\nAnd it really undermines at least one of the central charges you could have lodged against Trump, that everyone that is able to access classified documents has a substantive responsibility to make sure they are handled appropriately. The \"oh, well, we had to leave in a hurry and things just got mixed up\" arguments Trump could have made before would have had little merit - especially when you consider previous historic cases where even a single doc mishandled ended up with someone in jail.\nBut now Trump will be able to dilute that charge completely. He's still fucked on obstruction and everything else (hopefully).", ">\n\nClassified != Compartmentalized, Top Secret, etc.", ">\n\nI agree with you, but I was recently informed that sources say some of these classified documents were classified Top Secret.\nIt does appear as though ABC is confirming that sources are saying that some of these were top secret documents.\n\nSources also told ABC News that the original batch of about 10 documents found in November contains classified vice-presidential briefing papers about foreign countries, some of which were marked top secret.\n\nAnd CNN is not even using the journalistic term source, going so far as to assert that some of these documents were top secret.\n\nSome of the classified documents were “top secret,” the highest level. They were found in three or four boxes that also contained unclassified papers that fall under the Presidential Records Act, CNN has reported.\n\nIf we are going to maintain Integrity about the treatment of top secret classified documents, it is important to hold both sides accountable for their retention of documents.\nThank goodness that Biden's lawyers were up front with the FBI and NARA rather than lying about the retention of documents and obstructing an investigation.\nI really hope that Biden doesn't try to use the executive privilege argument to keep himself from investigation, but this is likely going to be a permanent stain on his reputation and definitely opens up the presidential field in the Democratic Party for 2024.", ">\n\nWhy would this be a permanent stain on Biden’s reputation?", ">\n\nBecause it will 100% be used along with whataboutism to suggest that Biden was going after Trump for the same thing that he was caught doing, regardless of the fact that Biden was not responsible for the investigation into Trump's documents has not been outspoken about the retention of documents, subsequent Lies by his lawyers, and obstruction.\nI'm not saying that it is going to be fair, or even rational but it is going to cause a stain and that will be used to pillory him.", ">\n\nSo in essence, this is only going to be a stain in the minds of people who are rather brainless to begin with….gotcha", ">\n\nIts a stain because it's political ammunition for the other side, not because you or I see it for the opportunitistically timed political assault that it seems to be. In modern politics, being on the defensive is the same as losing. Hillary Clinton's email fiasco likely contributed to the 2016 election results even though she wasn't indicted for a crime.\nThe people on the other side of the political spectrum who would consider this whole fiasco a stain on Biden AREN'T brainless, they're heavily propogandized, and they DO vote. This whole thing will be used to justify any or all of Trump's conduct that should be immediately disqualifying. Expect this to be split-screened with all of Trump's legal woes.\nHopefully Trump won't make it to the 2024 Election season as a viable candidate. If Trump does make it, Trump will use this against Biden. If Trump loses out to someone like DeSantis, there will be a concerted effort to crucify Biden with it.", ">\n\nMy favorite part of this:\nNo raging tweets from the president making up executive powers. Accusing people of planting evidence and arguing about a deep state conspiracy against him.", ">\n\nI’d be hilarious if he copy pasted one of trumps tweets and ended it with JK I’m not a raving lunatic in a middle of a tantrum.", ">\n\nThat would be some great dark Brandon shit.", ">\n\nI am all for a special counsel being appointed. But a Trump appointee feels like an attempt by Garland to bend over backwards to show just how apolitical he is. If he wanted to reach across the aisle, he couldn’t find a Bush appointee rather than someone appointed by a man who literally tried to upend the Republic and is known for appointing partisan hacks?", ">\n\nThis is how Garland has been acting since appointed. It’s like he’s so terrified of being perceived as biased against repubs that he instead acts biased against dems. He has truly been a failure at AG.. even more of a letdown than Mueller", ">\n\nWell, Garland is a conservative….. people think that he must be left wing because Obama nominated him for SCOTUS. NOPE! - he’s right wing and Obama was throwing the GOP a bone. The GOP just hated Obama so fucking much they slapped down a nominee that aligned with them.", ">\n\nTrue, Biden should have appointed someone else", ">\n\nOnly took a year and a half to appoint one for Trump. Also what about that DOJ policy about not investigating and prosecuting a sitting president which protected the former guy for, what, six years now?", ">\n\nGarland is not our friend.", ">\n\nWho’s friend, exactly? What does friendship have to do with accountability to rules and laws?\nAre you suggesting the DOJ should be aligned and friendly with one particular party or another and so they don’t have to follow rules and laws we expect others to comply with?", ">\n\nGarland is not a friend to justice.\nWhy has Trump not been indicted yet? What's the confusion?", ">\n\n\nWhy has Trump not been indicted yet?\n\nwhy would you expect him to have been? the investigation isn't over yet", ">\n\nit explains why they weren't indicted in the article", ">\n\nSome anonymous lawyer being quoted by CNN is not a definitive explanation at all. It's hearsay and well-meaning bullshit. But when the DOJ was asked? \"A spokesperson for the Department of Justice declined to comment.\" But if you do believe that anonymous source, do you really think they have executive privilege, as your source says? How TF do \"advisors\" get privilege?", ">\n\nthey worked in the White House", ">\n\nBad enough that everyone bought that crap, \"The president is immune to criminal prosecution and subpoenas.\" But now we're going to extend it to anyone who worked in the White House?! Holy cow you can't possibly believe that's a good idea.", ">\n\nAs. We. Would. Expect. 🤷‍♂️ \nCan't wait until Biden whines, makes excuses, tries to get a special master, claims that they where declassifi...... Oh wait. Dems don't do any of that.", ">\n\nIt doesn’t even matter cause republicans don’t care about mishandling classified document- oh wait…now they do.", ">\n\nAs a Democrat I am pretty pissed off at Biden for this, but I would be willing to bet he didn't know the documents were there. \nThat said, I am a strong believer in people being punished for breaking the law, even if they are on my \"team.\"\nIf he broke the law, punish him. \nJust make sure that that miserable, racist orange thing that yells all the time gets his as well.\nThis is the only way to have nice things.", ">\n\nBiden isn't asking for a special grand master or looking for a favorable court... weird.", ">\n\nLove how it took 2 years to do this for trump, and he ain't even president, 2 days for Biden and he is president. \nTo be clear, I'm not saying there shouldn't be an investigation, I'm saying Garland is showing his true colors pretty strongly with the disparity.\nEdit: I'm muting this thread, not trying to get banned for cussing some fool out again. Have a good night y'all.", ">\n\nThe difference will always be that most democrats are just fine with an investigation. Because they care about good governance instead of personality cults.", ">\n\nYeah, it's like Goofus and Gallant. Except Goofus wins every other election and beats your head in with a bat.", ">\n\nWeird how Garland can move with lightning speed when it’s a cover-your-ass political move. Lightning speed.", ">\n\nFucking ridiculous the kid-gloves treatment that Trump gets." ]

[ "Do a complete investigation, gather the evidence, follow all procedures and the law, seek justice without fear or favor no matter who is involved. Figure this mess out.", ">\n\nFully agree - and I'd actually like the investigation to be concluded swiftly since the ones being investigated will likely be 100% cooperative. It's not like DoJ will have to be dealing with full on liars and criminals which takes forever to find the answers.", ">\n\nI 100% agree that there ought to be a reasonable investigation into this but I do have to wonder if any of this matters at all given that Biden is currently the president and therefore has not only the right to have classified information but also the ability to declassify that information.\nNot trying to make excuses for the oversight (or lack thereof) of classified documents, but it seems to me as though this requires an investigation into how classified documents are handled during and after individuals have been given such status and after said status has lapsed.\nLet's be perfectly honest, if they had taken different actions on the first set of documents, we likely wouldn't even know about this because there was nobody searching for them.\nHad Biden and his lawyers actually been seriously corrupt, they could easily have disposed of them in a fireplace or down a toilet and no one would know the better.\nThe fact that they brought this directly to the attention of the proper authorities is at least proof that they do have respect for the rule of law and are willing to except the consequences, even if it is going to be used to make political hay while the sun shines.\nThat said, this likely has huge implications for executive privilege, especially to the extent that the former president argued he had. I personally do not have a problem with the minister of th Office of the President being able to be held accountable for their actions but only if it is equally applied across the board and not just something that we will have to deal with when presidents from the Democratic party are being scrutinized.", ">\n\n\nhas not only the right to have classified information but also the ability to declassify that information.\n\nHe does. But apparently these docs were from his Vice Presidency under Obama. So, it's a bit uncertain.\nAnd it really undermines at least one of the central charges you could have lodged against Trump, that everyone that is able to access classified documents has a substantive responsibility to make sure they are handled appropriately. The \"oh, well, we had to leave in a hurry and things just got mixed up\" arguments Trump could have made before would have had little merit - especially when you consider previous historic cases where even a single doc mishandled ended up with someone in jail.\nBut now Trump will be able to dilute that charge completely. He's still fucked on obstruction and everything else (hopefully).", ">\n\nClassified != Compartmentalized, Top Secret, etc.", ">\n\nI agree with you, but I was recently informed that sources say some of these classified documents were classified Top Secret.\nIt does appear as though ABC is confirming that sources are saying that some of these were top secret documents.\n\nSources also told ABC News that the original batch of about 10 documents found in November contains classified vice-presidential briefing papers about foreign countries, some of which were marked top secret.\n\nAnd CNN is not even using the journalistic term source, going so far as to assert that some of these documents were top secret.\n\nSome of the classified documents were “top secret,” the highest level. They were found in three or four boxes that also contained unclassified papers that fall under the Presidential Records Act, CNN has reported.\n\nIf we are going to maintain Integrity about the treatment of top secret classified documents, it is important to hold both sides accountable for their retention of documents.\nThank goodness that Biden's lawyers were up front with the FBI and NARA rather than lying about the retention of documents and obstructing an investigation.\nI really hope that Biden doesn't try to use the executive privilege argument to keep himself from investigation, but this is likely going to be a permanent stain on his reputation and definitely opens up the presidential field in the Democratic Party for 2024.", ">\n\nWhy would this be a permanent stain on Biden’s reputation?", ">\n\nBecause it will 100% be used along with whataboutism to suggest that Biden was going after Trump for the same thing that he was caught doing, regardless of the fact that Biden was not responsible for the investigation into Trump's documents has not been outspoken about the retention of documents, subsequent Lies by his lawyers, and obstruction.\nI'm not saying that it is going to be fair, or even rational but it is going to cause a stain and that will be used to pillory him.", ">\n\nSo in essence, this is only going to be a stain in the minds of people who are rather brainless to begin with….gotcha", ">\n\nIts a stain because it's political ammunition for the other side, not because you or I see it for the opportunitistically timed political assault that it seems to be. In modern politics, being on the defensive is the same as losing. Hillary Clinton's email fiasco likely contributed to the 2016 election results even though she wasn't indicted for a crime.\nThe people on the other side of the political spectrum who would consider this whole fiasco a stain on Biden AREN'T brainless, they're heavily propogandized, and they DO vote. This whole thing will be used to justify any or all of Trump's conduct that should be immediately disqualifying. Expect this to be split-screened with all of Trump's legal woes.\nHopefully Trump won't make it to the 2024 Election season as a viable candidate. If Trump does make it, Trump will use this against Biden. If Trump loses out to someone like DeSantis, there will be a concerted effort to crucify Biden with it.", ">\n\nMy favorite part of this:\nNo raging tweets from the president making up executive powers. Accusing people of planting evidence and arguing about a deep state conspiracy against him.", ">\n\nI’d be hilarious if he copy pasted one of trumps tweets and ended it with JK I’m not a raving lunatic in a middle of a tantrum.", ">\n\nThat would be some great dark Brandon shit.", ">\n\nI am all for a special counsel being appointed. But a Trump appointee feels like an attempt by Garland to bend over backwards to show just how apolitical he is. If he wanted to reach across the aisle, he couldn’t find a Bush appointee rather than someone appointed by a man who literally tried to upend the Republic and is known for appointing partisan hacks?", ">\n\nThis is how Garland has been acting since appointed. It’s like he’s so terrified of being perceived as biased against repubs that he instead acts biased against dems. He has truly been a failure at AG.. even more of a letdown than Mueller", ">\n\nWell, Garland is a conservative….. people think that he must be left wing because Obama nominated him for SCOTUS. NOPE! - he’s right wing and Obama was throwing the GOP a bone. The GOP just hated Obama so fucking much they slapped down a nominee that aligned with them.", ">\n\nTrue, Biden should have appointed someone else", ">\n\nOnly took a year and a half to appoint one for Trump. Also what about that DOJ policy about not investigating and prosecuting a sitting president which protected the former guy for, what, six years now?", ">\n\nGarland is not our friend.", ">\n\nWho’s friend, exactly? What does friendship have to do with accountability to rules and laws?\nAre you suggesting the DOJ should be aligned and friendly with one particular party or another and so they don’t have to follow rules and laws we expect others to comply with?", ">\n\nGarland is not a friend to justice.\nWhy has Trump not been indicted yet? What's the confusion?", ">\n\n\nWhy has Trump not been indicted yet?\n\nwhy would you expect him to have been? the investigation isn't over yet", ">\n\nit explains why they weren't indicted in the article", ">\n\nSome anonymous lawyer being quoted by CNN is not a definitive explanation at all. It's hearsay and well-meaning bullshit. But when the DOJ was asked? \"A spokesperson for the Department of Justice declined to comment.\" But if you do believe that anonymous source, do you really think they have executive privilege, as your source says? How TF do \"advisors\" get privilege?", ">\n\nthey worked in the White House", ">\n\nBad enough that everyone bought that crap, \"The president is immune to criminal prosecution and subpoenas.\" But now we're going to extend it to anyone who worked in the White House?! Holy cow you can't possibly believe that's a good idea.", ">\n\nAs. We. Would. Expect. 🤷‍♂️ \nCan't wait until Biden whines, makes excuses, tries to get a special master, claims that they where declassifi...... Oh wait. Dems don't do any of that.", ">\n\nIt doesn’t even matter cause republicans don’t care about mishandling classified document- oh wait…now they do.", ">\n\nAs a Democrat I am pretty pissed off at Biden for this, but I would be willing to bet he didn't know the documents were there. \nThat said, I am a strong believer in people being punished for breaking the law, even if they are on my \"team.\"\nIf he broke the law, punish him. \nJust make sure that that miserable, racist orange thing that yells all the time gets his as well.\nThis is the only way to have nice things.", ">\n\nBiden isn't asking for a special grand master or looking for a favorable court... weird.", ">\n\nLove how it took 2 years to do this for trump, and he ain't even president, 2 days for Biden and he is president. \nTo be clear, I'm not saying there shouldn't be an investigation, I'm saying Garland is showing his true colors pretty strongly with the disparity.\nEdit: I'm muting this thread, not trying to get banned for cussing some fool out again. Have a good night y'all.", ">\n\nThe difference will always be that most democrats are just fine with an investigation. Because they care about good governance instead of personality cults.", ">\n\nYeah, it's like Goofus and Gallant. Except Goofus wins every other election and beats your head in with a bat.", ">\n\nWeird how Garland can move with lightning speed when it’s a cover-your-ass political move. Lightning speed.", ">\n\nFucking ridiculous the kid-gloves treatment that Trump gets.", ">\n\nI feel like Trump is about to get his shit kicked in here by Jack Smith in about a month or so when the indictments start coming" ]

[ "Do a complete investigation, gather the evidence, follow all procedures and the law, seek justice without fear or favor no matter who is involved. Figure this mess out.", ">\n\nFully agree - and I'd actually like the investigation to be concluded swiftly since the ones being investigated will likely be 100% cooperative. It's not like DoJ will have to be dealing with full on liars and criminals which takes forever to find the answers.", ">\n\nI 100% agree that there ought to be a reasonable investigation into this but I do have to wonder if any of this matters at all given that Biden is currently the president and therefore has not only the right to have classified information but also the ability to declassify that information.\nNot trying to make excuses for the oversight (or lack thereof) of classified documents, but it seems to me as though this requires an investigation into how classified documents are handled during and after individuals have been given such status and after said status has lapsed.\nLet's be perfectly honest, if they had taken different actions on the first set of documents, we likely wouldn't even know about this because there was nobody searching for them.\nHad Biden and his lawyers actually been seriously corrupt, they could easily have disposed of them in a fireplace or down a toilet and no one would know the better.\nThe fact that they brought this directly to the attention of the proper authorities is at least proof that they do have respect for the rule of law and are willing to except the consequences, even if it is going to be used to make political hay while the sun shines.\nThat said, this likely has huge implications for executive privilege, especially to the extent that the former president argued he had. I personally do not have a problem with the minister of th Office of the President being able to be held accountable for their actions but only if it is equally applied across the board and not just something that we will have to deal with when presidents from the Democratic party are being scrutinized.", ">\n\n\nhas not only the right to have classified information but also the ability to declassify that information.\n\nHe does. But apparently these docs were from his Vice Presidency under Obama. So, it's a bit uncertain.\nAnd it really undermines at least one of the central charges you could have lodged against Trump, that everyone that is able to access classified documents has a substantive responsibility to make sure they are handled appropriately. The \"oh, well, we had to leave in a hurry and things just got mixed up\" arguments Trump could have made before would have had little merit - especially when you consider previous historic cases where even a single doc mishandled ended up with someone in jail.\nBut now Trump will be able to dilute that charge completely. He's still fucked on obstruction and everything else (hopefully).", ">\n\nClassified != Compartmentalized, Top Secret, etc.", ">\n\nI agree with you, but I was recently informed that sources say some of these classified documents were classified Top Secret.\nIt does appear as though ABC is confirming that sources are saying that some of these were top secret documents.\n\nSources also told ABC News that the original batch of about 10 documents found in November contains classified vice-presidential briefing papers about foreign countries, some of which were marked top secret.\n\nAnd CNN is not even using the journalistic term source, going so far as to assert that some of these documents were top secret.\n\nSome of the classified documents were “top secret,” the highest level. They were found in three or four boxes that also contained unclassified papers that fall under the Presidential Records Act, CNN has reported.\n\nIf we are going to maintain Integrity about the treatment of top secret classified documents, it is important to hold both sides accountable for their retention of documents.\nThank goodness that Biden's lawyers were up front with the FBI and NARA rather than lying about the retention of documents and obstructing an investigation.\nI really hope that Biden doesn't try to use the executive privilege argument to keep himself from investigation, but this is likely going to be a permanent stain on his reputation and definitely opens up the presidential field in the Democratic Party for 2024.", ">\n\nWhy would this be a permanent stain on Biden’s reputation?", ">\n\nBecause it will 100% be used along with whataboutism to suggest that Biden was going after Trump for the same thing that he was caught doing, regardless of the fact that Biden was not responsible for the investigation into Trump's documents has not been outspoken about the retention of documents, subsequent Lies by his lawyers, and obstruction.\nI'm not saying that it is going to be fair, or even rational but it is going to cause a stain and that will be used to pillory him.", ">\n\nSo in essence, this is only going to be a stain in the minds of people who are rather brainless to begin with….gotcha", ">\n\nIts a stain because it's political ammunition for the other side, not because you or I see it for the opportunitistically timed political assault that it seems to be. In modern politics, being on the defensive is the same as losing. Hillary Clinton's email fiasco likely contributed to the 2016 election results even though she wasn't indicted for a crime.\nThe people on the other side of the political spectrum who would consider this whole fiasco a stain on Biden AREN'T brainless, they're heavily propogandized, and they DO vote. This whole thing will be used to justify any or all of Trump's conduct that should be immediately disqualifying. Expect this to be split-screened with all of Trump's legal woes.\nHopefully Trump won't make it to the 2024 Election season as a viable candidate. If Trump does make it, Trump will use this against Biden. If Trump loses out to someone like DeSantis, there will be a concerted effort to crucify Biden with it.", ">\n\nMy favorite part of this:\nNo raging tweets from the president making up executive powers. Accusing people of planting evidence and arguing about a deep state conspiracy against him.", ">\n\nI’d be hilarious if he copy pasted one of trumps tweets and ended it with JK I’m not a raving lunatic in a middle of a tantrum.", ">\n\nThat would be some great dark Brandon shit.", ">\n\nI am all for a special counsel being appointed. But a Trump appointee feels like an attempt by Garland to bend over backwards to show just how apolitical he is. If he wanted to reach across the aisle, he couldn’t find a Bush appointee rather than someone appointed by a man who literally tried to upend the Republic and is known for appointing partisan hacks?", ">\n\nThis is how Garland has been acting since appointed. It’s like he’s so terrified of being perceived as biased against repubs that he instead acts biased against dems. He has truly been a failure at AG.. even more of a letdown than Mueller", ">\n\nWell, Garland is a conservative….. people think that he must be left wing because Obama nominated him for SCOTUS. NOPE! - he’s right wing and Obama was throwing the GOP a bone. The GOP just hated Obama so fucking much they slapped down a nominee that aligned with them.", ">\n\nTrue, Biden should have appointed someone else", ">\n\nOnly took a year and a half to appoint one for Trump. Also what about that DOJ policy about not investigating and prosecuting a sitting president which protected the former guy for, what, six years now?", ">\n\nGarland is not our friend.", ">\n\nWho’s friend, exactly? What does friendship have to do with accountability to rules and laws?\nAre you suggesting the DOJ should be aligned and friendly with one particular party or another and so they don’t have to follow rules and laws we expect others to comply with?", ">\n\nGarland is not a friend to justice.\nWhy has Trump not been indicted yet? What's the confusion?", ">\n\n\nWhy has Trump not been indicted yet?\n\nwhy would you expect him to have been? the investigation isn't over yet", ">\n\nit explains why they weren't indicted in the article", ">\n\nSome anonymous lawyer being quoted by CNN is not a definitive explanation at all. It's hearsay and well-meaning bullshit. But when the DOJ was asked? \"A spokesperson for the Department of Justice declined to comment.\" But if you do believe that anonymous source, do you really think they have executive privilege, as your source says? How TF do \"advisors\" get privilege?", ">\n\nthey worked in the White House", ">\n\nBad enough that everyone bought that crap, \"The president is immune to criminal prosecution and subpoenas.\" But now we're going to extend it to anyone who worked in the White House?! Holy cow you can't possibly believe that's a good idea.", ">\n\nAs. We. Would. Expect. 🤷‍♂️ \nCan't wait until Biden whines, makes excuses, tries to get a special master, claims that they where declassifi...... Oh wait. Dems don't do any of that.", ">\n\nIt doesn’t even matter cause republicans don’t care about mishandling classified document- oh wait…now they do.", ">\n\nAs a Democrat I am pretty pissed off at Biden for this, but I would be willing to bet he didn't know the documents were there. \nThat said, I am a strong believer in people being punished for breaking the law, even if they are on my \"team.\"\nIf he broke the law, punish him. \nJust make sure that that miserable, racist orange thing that yells all the time gets his as well.\nThis is the only way to have nice things.", ">\n\nBiden isn't asking for a special grand master or looking for a favorable court... weird.", ">\n\nLove how it took 2 years to do this for trump, and he ain't even president, 2 days for Biden and he is president. \nTo be clear, I'm not saying there shouldn't be an investigation, I'm saying Garland is showing his true colors pretty strongly with the disparity.\nEdit: I'm muting this thread, not trying to get banned for cussing some fool out again. Have a good night y'all.", ">\n\nThe difference will always be that most democrats are just fine with an investigation. Because they care about good governance instead of personality cults.", ">\n\nYeah, it's like Goofus and Gallant. Except Goofus wins every other election and beats your head in with a bat.", ">\n\nWeird how Garland can move with lightning speed when it’s a cover-your-ass political move. Lightning speed.", ">\n\nFucking ridiculous the kid-gloves treatment that Trump gets.", ">\n\nI feel like Trump is about to get his shit kicked in here by Jack Smith in about a month or so when the indictments start coming", ">\n\nI feel like someone has said this every month for the last 6 years. The point is, Trump is untouchable. His angry mob would never succeed in overthrowing the government, but they would likely affect quarterly profits." ]

[ "Do a complete investigation, gather the evidence, follow all procedures and the law, seek justice without fear or favor no matter who is involved. Figure this mess out.", ">\n\nFully agree - and I'd actually like the investigation to be concluded swiftly since the ones being investigated will likely be 100% cooperative. It's not like DoJ will have to be dealing with full on liars and criminals which takes forever to find the answers.", ">\n\nI 100% agree that there ought to be a reasonable investigation into this but I do have to wonder if any of this matters at all given that Biden is currently the president and therefore has not only the right to have classified information but also the ability to declassify that information.\nNot trying to make excuses for the oversight (or lack thereof) of classified documents, but it seems to me as though this requires an investigation into how classified documents are handled during and after individuals have been given such status and after said status has lapsed.\nLet's be perfectly honest, if they had taken different actions on the first set of documents, we likely wouldn't even know about this because there was nobody searching for them.\nHad Biden and his lawyers actually been seriously corrupt, they could easily have disposed of them in a fireplace or down a toilet and no one would know the better.\nThe fact that they brought this directly to the attention of the proper authorities is at least proof that they do have respect for the rule of law and are willing to except the consequences, even if it is going to be used to make political hay while the sun shines.\nThat said, this likely has huge implications for executive privilege, especially to the extent that the former president argued he had. I personally do not have a problem with the minister of th Office of the President being able to be held accountable for their actions but only if it is equally applied across the board and not just something that we will have to deal with when presidents from the Democratic party are being scrutinized.", ">\n\n\nhas not only the right to have classified information but also the ability to declassify that information.\n\nHe does. But apparently these docs were from his Vice Presidency under Obama. So, it's a bit uncertain.\nAnd it really undermines at least one of the central charges you could have lodged against Trump, that everyone that is able to access classified documents has a substantive responsibility to make sure they are handled appropriately. The \"oh, well, we had to leave in a hurry and things just got mixed up\" arguments Trump could have made before would have had little merit - especially when you consider previous historic cases where even a single doc mishandled ended up with someone in jail.\nBut now Trump will be able to dilute that charge completely. He's still fucked on obstruction and everything else (hopefully).", ">\n\nClassified != Compartmentalized, Top Secret, etc.", ">\n\nI agree with you, but I was recently informed that sources say some of these classified documents were classified Top Secret.\nIt does appear as though ABC is confirming that sources are saying that some of these were top secret documents.\n\nSources also told ABC News that the original batch of about 10 documents found in November contains classified vice-presidential briefing papers about foreign countries, some of which were marked top secret.\n\nAnd CNN is not even using the journalistic term source, going so far as to assert that some of these documents were top secret.\n\nSome of the classified documents were “top secret,” the highest level. They were found in three or four boxes that also contained unclassified papers that fall under the Presidential Records Act, CNN has reported.\n\nIf we are going to maintain Integrity about the treatment of top secret classified documents, it is important to hold both sides accountable for their retention of documents.\nThank goodness that Biden's lawyers were up front with the FBI and NARA rather than lying about the retention of documents and obstructing an investigation.\nI really hope that Biden doesn't try to use the executive privilege argument to keep himself from investigation, but this is likely going to be a permanent stain on his reputation and definitely opens up the presidential field in the Democratic Party for 2024.", ">\n\nWhy would this be a permanent stain on Biden’s reputation?", ">\n\nBecause it will 100% be used along with whataboutism to suggest that Biden was going after Trump for the same thing that he was caught doing, regardless of the fact that Biden was not responsible for the investigation into Trump's documents has not been outspoken about the retention of documents, subsequent Lies by his lawyers, and obstruction.\nI'm not saying that it is going to be fair, or even rational but it is going to cause a stain and that will be used to pillory him.", ">\n\nSo in essence, this is only going to be a stain in the minds of people who are rather brainless to begin with….gotcha", ">\n\nIts a stain because it's political ammunition for the other side, not because you or I see it for the opportunitistically timed political assault that it seems to be. In modern politics, being on the defensive is the same as losing. Hillary Clinton's email fiasco likely contributed to the 2016 election results even though she wasn't indicted for a crime.\nThe people on the other side of the political spectrum who would consider this whole fiasco a stain on Biden AREN'T brainless, they're heavily propogandized, and they DO vote. This whole thing will be used to justify any or all of Trump's conduct that should be immediately disqualifying. Expect this to be split-screened with all of Trump's legal woes.\nHopefully Trump won't make it to the 2024 Election season as a viable candidate. If Trump does make it, Trump will use this against Biden. If Trump loses out to someone like DeSantis, there will be a concerted effort to crucify Biden with it.", ">\n\nMy favorite part of this:\nNo raging tweets from the president making up executive powers. Accusing people of planting evidence and arguing about a deep state conspiracy against him.", ">\n\nI’d be hilarious if he copy pasted one of trumps tweets and ended it with JK I’m not a raving lunatic in a middle of a tantrum.", ">\n\nThat would be some great dark Brandon shit.", ">\n\nI am all for a special counsel being appointed. But a Trump appointee feels like an attempt by Garland to bend over backwards to show just how apolitical he is. If he wanted to reach across the aisle, he couldn’t find a Bush appointee rather than someone appointed by a man who literally tried to upend the Republic and is known for appointing partisan hacks?", ">\n\nThis is how Garland has been acting since appointed. It’s like he’s so terrified of being perceived as biased against repubs that he instead acts biased against dems. He has truly been a failure at AG.. even more of a letdown than Mueller", ">\n\nWell, Garland is a conservative….. people think that he must be left wing because Obama nominated him for SCOTUS. NOPE! - he’s right wing and Obama was throwing the GOP a bone. The GOP just hated Obama so fucking much they slapped down a nominee that aligned with them.", ">\n\nTrue, Biden should have appointed someone else", ">\n\nOnly took a year and a half to appoint one for Trump. Also what about that DOJ policy about not investigating and prosecuting a sitting president which protected the former guy for, what, six years now?", ">\n\nGarland is not our friend.", ">\n\nWho’s friend, exactly? What does friendship have to do with accountability to rules and laws?\nAre you suggesting the DOJ should be aligned and friendly with one particular party or another and so they don’t have to follow rules and laws we expect others to comply with?", ">\n\nGarland is not a friend to justice.\nWhy has Trump not been indicted yet? What's the confusion?", ">\n\n\nWhy has Trump not been indicted yet?\n\nwhy would you expect him to have been? the investigation isn't over yet", ">\n\nit explains why they weren't indicted in the article", ">\n\nSome anonymous lawyer being quoted by CNN is not a definitive explanation at all. It's hearsay and well-meaning bullshit. But when the DOJ was asked? \"A spokesperson for the Department of Justice declined to comment.\" But if you do believe that anonymous source, do you really think they have executive privilege, as your source says? How TF do \"advisors\" get privilege?", ">\n\nthey worked in the White House", ">\n\nBad enough that everyone bought that crap, \"The president is immune to criminal prosecution and subpoenas.\" But now we're going to extend it to anyone who worked in the White House?! Holy cow you can't possibly believe that's a good idea.", ">\n\nAs. We. Would. Expect. 🤷‍♂️ \nCan't wait until Biden whines, makes excuses, tries to get a special master, claims that they where declassifi...... Oh wait. Dems don't do any of that.", ">\n\nIt doesn’t even matter cause republicans don’t care about mishandling classified document- oh wait…now they do.", ">\n\nAs a Democrat I am pretty pissed off at Biden for this, but I would be willing to bet he didn't know the documents were there. \nThat said, I am a strong believer in people being punished for breaking the law, even if they are on my \"team.\"\nIf he broke the law, punish him. \nJust make sure that that miserable, racist orange thing that yells all the time gets his as well.\nThis is the only way to have nice things.", ">\n\nBiden isn't asking for a special grand master or looking for a favorable court... weird.", ">\n\nLove how it took 2 years to do this for trump, and he ain't even president, 2 days for Biden and he is president. \nTo be clear, I'm not saying there shouldn't be an investigation, I'm saying Garland is showing his true colors pretty strongly with the disparity.\nEdit: I'm muting this thread, not trying to get banned for cussing some fool out again. Have a good night y'all.", ">\n\nThe difference will always be that most democrats are just fine with an investigation. Because they care about good governance instead of personality cults.", ">\n\nYeah, it's like Goofus and Gallant. Except Goofus wins every other election and beats your head in with a bat.", ">\n\nWeird how Garland can move with lightning speed when it’s a cover-your-ass political move. Lightning speed.", ">\n\nFucking ridiculous the kid-gloves treatment that Trump gets.", ">\n\nI feel like Trump is about to get his shit kicked in here by Jack Smith in about a month or so when the indictments start coming", ">\n\nI feel like someone has said this every month for the last 6 years. The point is, Trump is untouchable. His angry mob would never succeed in overthrowing the government, but they would likely affect quarterly profits.", ">\n\nThis right here. Gotta keep the wolves fed or they might bite you. \nDomestic Terrorism discourages commerce. They’re fucking cowards." ]

[ "Do a complete investigation, gather the evidence, follow all procedures and the law, seek justice without fear or favor no matter who is involved. Figure this mess out.", ">\n\nFully agree - and I'd actually like the investigation to be concluded swiftly since the ones being investigated will likely be 100% cooperative. It's not like DoJ will have to be dealing with full on liars and criminals which takes forever to find the answers.", ">\n\nI 100% agree that there ought to be a reasonable investigation into this but I do have to wonder if any of this matters at all given that Biden is currently the president and therefore has not only the right to have classified information but also the ability to declassify that information.\nNot trying to make excuses for the oversight (or lack thereof) of classified documents, but it seems to me as though this requires an investigation into how classified documents are handled during and after individuals have been given such status and after said status has lapsed.\nLet's be perfectly honest, if they had taken different actions on the first set of documents, we likely wouldn't even know about this because there was nobody searching for them.\nHad Biden and his lawyers actually been seriously corrupt, they could easily have disposed of them in a fireplace or down a toilet and no one would know the better.\nThe fact that they brought this directly to the attention of the proper authorities is at least proof that they do have respect for the rule of law and are willing to except the consequences, even if it is going to be used to make political hay while the sun shines.\nThat said, this likely has huge implications for executive privilege, especially to the extent that the former president argued he had. I personally do not have a problem with the minister of th Office of the President being able to be held accountable for their actions but only if it is equally applied across the board and not just something that we will have to deal with when presidents from the Democratic party are being scrutinized.", ">\n\n\nhas not only the right to have classified information but also the ability to declassify that information.\n\nHe does. But apparently these docs were from his Vice Presidency under Obama. So, it's a bit uncertain.\nAnd it really undermines at least one of the central charges you could have lodged against Trump, that everyone that is able to access classified documents has a substantive responsibility to make sure they are handled appropriately. The \"oh, well, we had to leave in a hurry and things just got mixed up\" arguments Trump could have made before would have had little merit - especially when you consider previous historic cases where even a single doc mishandled ended up with someone in jail.\nBut now Trump will be able to dilute that charge completely. He's still fucked on obstruction and everything else (hopefully).", ">\n\nClassified != Compartmentalized, Top Secret, etc.", ">\n\nI agree with you, but I was recently informed that sources say some of these classified documents were classified Top Secret.\nIt does appear as though ABC is confirming that sources are saying that some of these were top secret documents.\n\nSources also told ABC News that the original batch of about 10 documents found in November contains classified vice-presidential briefing papers about foreign countries, some of which were marked top secret.\n\nAnd CNN is not even using the journalistic term source, going so far as to assert that some of these documents were top secret.\n\nSome of the classified documents were “top secret,” the highest level. They were found in three or four boxes that also contained unclassified papers that fall under the Presidential Records Act, CNN has reported.\n\nIf we are going to maintain Integrity about the treatment of top secret classified documents, it is important to hold both sides accountable for their retention of documents.\nThank goodness that Biden's lawyers were up front with the FBI and NARA rather than lying about the retention of documents and obstructing an investigation.\nI really hope that Biden doesn't try to use the executive privilege argument to keep himself from investigation, but this is likely going to be a permanent stain on his reputation and definitely opens up the presidential field in the Democratic Party for 2024.", ">\n\nWhy would this be a permanent stain on Biden’s reputation?", ">\n\nBecause it will 100% be used along with whataboutism to suggest that Biden was going after Trump for the same thing that he was caught doing, regardless of the fact that Biden was not responsible for the investigation into Trump's documents has not been outspoken about the retention of documents, subsequent Lies by his lawyers, and obstruction.\nI'm not saying that it is going to be fair, or even rational but it is going to cause a stain and that will be used to pillory him.", ">\n\nSo in essence, this is only going to be a stain in the minds of people who are rather brainless to begin with….gotcha", ">\n\nIts a stain because it's political ammunition for the other side, not because you or I see it for the opportunitistically timed political assault that it seems to be. In modern politics, being on the defensive is the same as losing. Hillary Clinton's email fiasco likely contributed to the 2016 election results even though she wasn't indicted for a crime.\nThe people on the other side of the political spectrum who would consider this whole fiasco a stain on Biden AREN'T brainless, they're heavily propogandized, and they DO vote. This whole thing will be used to justify any or all of Trump's conduct that should be immediately disqualifying. Expect this to be split-screened with all of Trump's legal woes.\nHopefully Trump won't make it to the 2024 Election season as a viable candidate. If Trump does make it, Trump will use this against Biden. If Trump loses out to someone like DeSantis, there will be a concerted effort to crucify Biden with it.", ">\n\nMy favorite part of this:\nNo raging tweets from the president making up executive powers. Accusing people of planting evidence and arguing about a deep state conspiracy against him.", ">\n\nI’d be hilarious if he copy pasted one of trumps tweets and ended it with JK I’m not a raving lunatic in a middle of a tantrum.", ">\n\nThat would be some great dark Brandon shit.", ">\n\nI am all for a special counsel being appointed. But a Trump appointee feels like an attempt by Garland to bend over backwards to show just how apolitical he is. If he wanted to reach across the aisle, he couldn’t find a Bush appointee rather than someone appointed by a man who literally tried to upend the Republic and is known for appointing partisan hacks?", ">\n\nThis is how Garland has been acting since appointed. It’s like he’s so terrified of being perceived as biased against repubs that he instead acts biased against dems. He has truly been a failure at AG.. even more of a letdown than Mueller", ">\n\nWell, Garland is a conservative….. people think that he must be left wing because Obama nominated him for SCOTUS. NOPE! - he’s right wing and Obama was throwing the GOP a bone. The GOP just hated Obama so fucking much they slapped down a nominee that aligned with them.", ">\n\nTrue, Biden should have appointed someone else", ">\n\nOnly took a year and a half to appoint one for Trump. Also what about that DOJ policy about not investigating and prosecuting a sitting president which protected the former guy for, what, six years now?", ">\n\nGarland is not our friend.", ">\n\nWho’s friend, exactly? What does friendship have to do with accountability to rules and laws?\nAre you suggesting the DOJ should be aligned and friendly with one particular party or another and so they don’t have to follow rules and laws we expect others to comply with?", ">\n\nGarland is not a friend to justice.\nWhy has Trump not been indicted yet? What's the confusion?", ">\n\n\nWhy has Trump not been indicted yet?\n\nwhy would you expect him to have been? the investigation isn't over yet", ">\n\nit explains why they weren't indicted in the article", ">\n\nSome anonymous lawyer being quoted by CNN is not a definitive explanation at all. It's hearsay and well-meaning bullshit. But when the DOJ was asked? \"A spokesperson for the Department of Justice declined to comment.\" But if you do believe that anonymous source, do you really think they have executive privilege, as your source says? How TF do \"advisors\" get privilege?", ">\n\nthey worked in the White House", ">\n\nBad enough that everyone bought that crap, \"The president is immune to criminal prosecution and subpoenas.\" But now we're going to extend it to anyone who worked in the White House?! Holy cow you can't possibly believe that's a good idea.", ">\n\nAs. We. Would. Expect. 🤷‍♂️ \nCan't wait until Biden whines, makes excuses, tries to get a special master, claims that they where declassifi...... Oh wait. Dems don't do any of that.", ">\n\nIt doesn’t even matter cause republicans don’t care about mishandling classified document- oh wait…now they do.", ">\n\nAs a Democrat I am pretty pissed off at Biden for this, but I would be willing to bet he didn't know the documents were there. \nThat said, I am a strong believer in people being punished for breaking the law, even if they are on my \"team.\"\nIf he broke the law, punish him. \nJust make sure that that miserable, racist orange thing that yells all the time gets his as well.\nThis is the only way to have nice things.", ">\n\nBiden isn't asking for a special grand master or looking for a favorable court... weird.", ">\n\nLove how it took 2 years to do this for trump, and he ain't even president, 2 days for Biden and he is president. \nTo be clear, I'm not saying there shouldn't be an investigation, I'm saying Garland is showing his true colors pretty strongly with the disparity.\nEdit: I'm muting this thread, not trying to get banned for cussing some fool out again. Have a good night y'all.", ">\n\nThe difference will always be that most democrats are just fine with an investigation. Because they care about good governance instead of personality cults.", ">\n\nYeah, it's like Goofus and Gallant. Except Goofus wins every other election and beats your head in with a bat.", ">\n\nWeird how Garland can move with lightning speed when it’s a cover-your-ass political move. Lightning speed.", ">\n\nFucking ridiculous the kid-gloves treatment that Trump gets.", ">\n\nI feel like Trump is about to get his shit kicked in here by Jack Smith in about a month or so when the indictments start coming", ">\n\nI feel like someone has said this every month for the last 6 years. The point is, Trump is untouchable. His angry mob would never succeed in overthrowing the government, but they would likely affect quarterly profits.", ">\n\nThis right here. Gotta keep the wolves fed or they might bite you. \nDomestic Terrorism discourages commerce. They’re fucking cowards.", ">\n\nHow's that Trump indictment coming?" ]

[ "Do a complete investigation, gather the evidence, follow all procedures and the law, seek justice without fear or favor no matter who is involved. Figure this mess out.", ">\n\nFully agree - and I'd actually like the investigation to be concluded swiftly since the ones being investigated will likely be 100% cooperative. It's not like DoJ will have to be dealing with full on liars and criminals which takes forever to find the answers.", ">\n\nI 100% agree that there ought to be a reasonable investigation into this but I do have to wonder if any of this matters at all given that Biden is currently the president and therefore has not only the right to have classified information but also the ability to declassify that information.\nNot trying to make excuses for the oversight (or lack thereof) of classified documents, but it seems to me as though this requires an investigation into how classified documents are handled during and after individuals have been given such status and after said status has lapsed.\nLet's be perfectly honest, if they had taken different actions on the first set of documents, we likely wouldn't even know about this because there was nobody searching for them.\nHad Biden and his lawyers actually been seriously corrupt, they could easily have disposed of them in a fireplace or down a toilet and no one would know the better.\nThe fact that they brought this directly to the attention of the proper authorities is at least proof that they do have respect for the rule of law and are willing to except the consequences, even if it is going to be used to make political hay while the sun shines.\nThat said, this likely has huge implications for executive privilege, especially to the extent that the former president argued he had. I personally do not have a problem with the minister of th Office of the President being able to be held accountable for their actions but only if it is equally applied across the board and not just something that we will have to deal with when presidents from the Democratic party are being scrutinized.", ">\n\n\nhas not only the right to have classified information but also the ability to declassify that information.\n\nHe does. But apparently these docs were from his Vice Presidency under Obama. So, it's a bit uncertain.\nAnd it really undermines at least one of the central charges you could have lodged against Trump, that everyone that is able to access classified documents has a substantive responsibility to make sure they are handled appropriately. The \"oh, well, we had to leave in a hurry and things just got mixed up\" arguments Trump could have made before would have had little merit - especially when you consider previous historic cases where even a single doc mishandled ended up with someone in jail.\nBut now Trump will be able to dilute that charge completely. He's still fucked on obstruction and everything else (hopefully).", ">\n\nClassified != Compartmentalized, Top Secret, etc.", ">\n\nI agree with you, but I was recently informed that sources say some of these classified documents were classified Top Secret.\nIt does appear as though ABC is confirming that sources are saying that some of these were top secret documents.\n\nSources also told ABC News that the original batch of about 10 documents found in November contains classified vice-presidential briefing papers about foreign countries, some of which were marked top secret.\n\nAnd CNN is not even using the journalistic term source, going so far as to assert that some of these documents were top secret.\n\nSome of the classified documents were “top secret,” the highest level. They were found in three or four boxes that also contained unclassified papers that fall under the Presidential Records Act, CNN has reported.\n\nIf we are going to maintain Integrity about the treatment of top secret classified documents, it is important to hold both sides accountable for their retention of documents.\nThank goodness that Biden's lawyers were up front with the FBI and NARA rather than lying about the retention of documents and obstructing an investigation.\nI really hope that Biden doesn't try to use the executive privilege argument to keep himself from investigation, but this is likely going to be a permanent stain on his reputation and definitely opens up the presidential field in the Democratic Party for 2024.", ">\n\nWhy would this be a permanent stain on Biden’s reputation?", ">\n\nBecause it will 100% be used along with whataboutism to suggest that Biden was going after Trump for the same thing that he was caught doing, regardless of the fact that Biden was not responsible for the investigation into Trump's documents has not been outspoken about the retention of documents, subsequent Lies by his lawyers, and obstruction.\nI'm not saying that it is going to be fair, or even rational but it is going to cause a stain and that will be used to pillory him.", ">\n\nSo in essence, this is only going to be a stain in the minds of people who are rather brainless to begin with….gotcha", ">\n\nIts a stain because it's political ammunition for the other side, not because you or I see it for the opportunitistically timed political assault that it seems to be. In modern politics, being on the defensive is the same as losing. Hillary Clinton's email fiasco likely contributed to the 2016 election results even though she wasn't indicted for a crime.\nThe people on the other side of the political spectrum who would consider this whole fiasco a stain on Biden AREN'T brainless, they're heavily propogandized, and they DO vote. This whole thing will be used to justify any or all of Trump's conduct that should be immediately disqualifying. Expect this to be split-screened with all of Trump's legal woes.\nHopefully Trump won't make it to the 2024 Election season as a viable candidate. If Trump does make it, Trump will use this against Biden. If Trump loses out to someone like DeSantis, there will be a concerted effort to crucify Biden with it.", ">\n\nMy favorite part of this:\nNo raging tweets from the president making up executive powers. Accusing people of planting evidence and arguing about a deep state conspiracy against him.", ">\n\nI’d be hilarious if he copy pasted one of trumps tweets and ended it with JK I’m not a raving lunatic in a middle of a tantrum.", ">\n\nThat would be some great dark Brandon shit.", ">\n\nI am all for a special counsel being appointed. But a Trump appointee feels like an attempt by Garland to bend over backwards to show just how apolitical he is. If he wanted to reach across the aisle, he couldn’t find a Bush appointee rather than someone appointed by a man who literally tried to upend the Republic and is known for appointing partisan hacks?", ">\n\nThis is how Garland has been acting since appointed. It’s like he’s so terrified of being perceived as biased against repubs that he instead acts biased against dems. He has truly been a failure at AG.. even more of a letdown than Mueller", ">\n\nWell, Garland is a conservative….. people think that he must be left wing because Obama nominated him for SCOTUS. NOPE! - he’s right wing and Obama was throwing the GOP a bone. The GOP just hated Obama so fucking much they slapped down a nominee that aligned with them.", ">\n\nTrue, Biden should have appointed someone else", ">\n\nOnly took a year and a half to appoint one for Trump. Also what about that DOJ policy about not investigating and prosecuting a sitting president which protected the former guy for, what, six years now?", ">\n\nGarland is not our friend.", ">\n\nWho’s friend, exactly? What does friendship have to do with accountability to rules and laws?\nAre you suggesting the DOJ should be aligned and friendly with one particular party or another and so they don’t have to follow rules and laws we expect others to comply with?", ">\n\nGarland is not a friend to justice.\nWhy has Trump not been indicted yet? What's the confusion?", ">\n\n\nWhy has Trump not been indicted yet?\n\nwhy would you expect him to have been? the investigation isn't over yet", ">\n\nit explains why they weren't indicted in the article", ">\n\nSome anonymous lawyer being quoted by CNN is not a definitive explanation at all. It's hearsay and well-meaning bullshit. But when the DOJ was asked? \"A spokesperson for the Department of Justice declined to comment.\" But if you do believe that anonymous source, do you really think they have executive privilege, as your source says? How TF do \"advisors\" get privilege?", ">\n\nthey worked in the White House", ">\n\nBad enough that everyone bought that crap, \"The president is immune to criminal prosecution and subpoenas.\" But now we're going to extend it to anyone who worked in the White House?! Holy cow you can't possibly believe that's a good idea.", ">\n\nAs. We. Would. Expect. 🤷‍♂️ \nCan't wait until Biden whines, makes excuses, tries to get a special master, claims that they where declassifi...... Oh wait. Dems don't do any of that.", ">\n\nIt doesn’t even matter cause republicans don’t care about mishandling classified document- oh wait…now they do.", ">\n\nAs a Democrat I am pretty pissed off at Biden for this, but I would be willing to bet he didn't know the documents were there. \nThat said, I am a strong believer in people being punished for breaking the law, even if they are on my \"team.\"\nIf he broke the law, punish him. \nJust make sure that that miserable, racist orange thing that yells all the time gets his as well.\nThis is the only way to have nice things.", ">\n\nBiden isn't asking for a special grand master or looking for a favorable court... weird.", ">\n\nLove how it took 2 years to do this for trump, and he ain't even president, 2 days for Biden and he is president. \nTo be clear, I'm not saying there shouldn't be an investigation, I'm saying Garland is showing his true colors pretty strongly with the disparity.\nEdit: I'm muting this thread, not trying to get banned for cussing some fool out again. Have a good night y'all.", ">\n\nThe difference will always be that most democrats are just fine with an investigation. Because they care about good governance instead of personality cults.", ">\n\nYeah, it's like Goofus and Gallant. Except Goofus wins every other election and beats your head in with a bat.", ">\n\nWeird how Garland can move with lightning speed when it’s a cover-your-ass political move. Lightning speed.", ">\n\nFucking ridiculous the kid-gloves treatment that Trump gets.", ">\n\nI feel like Trump is about to get his shit kicked in here by Jack Smith in about a month or so when the indictments start coming", ">\n\nI feel like someone has said this every month for the last 6 years. The point is, Trump is untouchable. His angry mob would never succeed in overthrowing the government, but they would likely affect quarterly profits.", ">\n\nThis right here. Gotta keep the wolves fed or they might bite you. \nDomestic Terrorism discourages commerce. They’re fucking cowards.", ">\n\nHow's that Trump indictment coming?", ">\n\nThis is all I'm concerned about. Biden's situation I'm sure will work itself out, but Trump has most certainly committed crimes well beyond and before simply having classified documents. I'm not even saying Biden hasn't broken the law, and he should be dealt with accordingly, but Trump has been a national security hazard and criminal since long before classified documents were found and obstruction was clearly committed to shield them, and this Biden situation should, in no way, get in the way of that case, which seems long overdue." ]

[ "Do a complete investigation, gather the evidence, follow all procedures and the law, seek justice without fear or favor no matter who is involved. Figure this mess out.", ">\n\nFully agree - and I'd actually like the investigation to be concluded swiftly since the ones being investigated will likely be 100% cooperative. It's not like DoJ will have to be dealing with full on liars and criminals which takes forever to find the answers.", ">\n\nI 100% agree that there ought to be a reasonable investigation into this but I do have to wonder if any of this matters at all given that Biden is currently the president and therefore has not only the right to have classified information but also the ability to declassify that information.\nNot trying to make excuses for the oversight (or lack thereof) of classified documents, but it seems to me as though this requires an investigation into how classified documents are handled during and after individuals have been given such status and after said status has lapsed.\nLet's be perfectly honest, if they had taken different actions on the first set of documents, we likely wouldn't even know about this because there was nobody searching for them.\nHad Biden and his lawyers actually been seriously corrupt, they could easily have disposed of them in a fireplace or down a toilet and no one would know the better.\nThe fact that they brought this directly to the attention of the proper authorities is at least proof that they do have respect for the rule of law and are willing to except the consequences, even if it is going to be used to make political hay while the sun shines.\nThat said, this likely has huge implications for executive privilege, especially to the extent that the former president argued he had. I personally do not have a problem with the minister of th Office of the President being able to be held accountable for their actions but only if it is equally applied across the board and not just something that we will have to deal with when presidents from the Democratic party are being scrutinized.", ">\n\n\nhas not only the right to have classified information but also the ability to declassify that information.\n\nHe does. But apparently these docs were from his Vice Presidency under Obama. So, it's a bit uncertain.\nAnd it really undermines at least one of the central charges you could have lodged against Trump, that everyone that is able to access classified documents has a substantive responsibility to make sure they are handled appropriately. The \"oh, well, we had to leave in a hurry and things just got mixed up\" arguments Trump could have made before would have had little merit - especially when you consider previous historic cases where even a single doc mishandled ended up with someone in jail.\nBut now Trump will be able to dilute that charge completely. He's still fucked on obstruction and everything else (hopefully).", ">\n\nClassified != Compartmentalized, Top Secret, etc.", ">\n\nI agree with you, but I was recently informed that sources say some of these classified documents were classified Top Secret.\nIt does appear as though ABC is confirming that sources are saying that some of these were top secret documents.\n\nSources also told ABC News that the original batch of about 10 documents found in November contains classified vice-presidential briefing papers about foreign countries, some of which were marked top secret.\n\nAnd CNN is not even using the journalistic term source, going so far as to assert that some of these documents were top secret.\n\nSome of the classified documents were “top secret,” the highest level. They were found in three or four boxes that also contained unclassified papers that fall under the Presidential Records Act, CNN has reported.\n\nIf we are going to maintain Integrity about the treatment of top secret classified documents, it is important to hold both sides accountable for their retention of documents.\nThank goodness that Biden's lawyers were up front with the FBI and NARA rather than lying about the retention of documents and obstructing an investigation.\nI really hope that Biden doesn't try to use the executive privilege argument to keep himself from investigation, but this is likely going to be a permanent stain on his reputation and definitely opens up the presidential field in the Democratic Party for 2024.", ">\n\nWhy would this be a permanent stain on Biden’s reputation?", ">\n\nBecause it will 100% be used along with whataboutism to suggest that Biden was going after Trump for the same thing that he was caught doing, regardless of the fact that Biden was not responsible for the investigation into Trump's documents has not been outspoken about the retention of documents, subsequent Lies by his lawyers, and obstruction.\nI'm not saying that it is going to be fair, or even rational but it is going to cause a stain and that will be used to pillory him.", ">\n\nSo in essence, this is only going to be a stain in the minds of people who are rather brainless to begin with….gotcha", ">\n\nIts a stain because it's political ammunition for the other side, not because you or I see it for the opportunitistically timed political assault that it seems to be. In modern politics, being on the defensive is the same as losing. Hillary Clinton's email fiasco likely contributed to the 2016 election results even though she wasn't indicted for a crime.\nThe people on the other side of the political spectrum who would consider this whole fiasco a stain on Biden AREN'T brainless, they're heavily propogandized, and they DO vote. This whole thing will be used to justify any or all of Trump's conduct that should be immediately disqualifying. Expect this to be split-screened with all of Trump's legal woes.\nHopefully Trump won't make it to the 2024 Election season as a viable candidate. If Trump does make it, Trump will use this against Biden. If Trump loses out to someone like DeSantis, there will be a concerted effort to crucify Biden with it.", ">\n\nMy favorite part of this:\nNo raging tweets from the president making up executive powers. Accusing people of planting evidence and arguing about a deep state conspiracy against him.", ">\n\nI’d be hilarious if he copy pasted one of trumps tweets and ended it with JK I’m not a raving lunatic in a middle of a tantrum.", ">\n\nThat would be some great dark Brandon shit.", ">\n\nI am all for a special counsel being appointed. But a Trump appointee feels like an attempt by Garland to bend over backwards to show just how apolitical he is. If he wanted to reach across the aisle, he couldn’t find a Bush appointee rather than someone appointed by a man who literally tried to upend the Republic and is known for appointing partisan hacks?", ">\n\nThis is how Garland has been acting since appointed. It’s like he’s so terrified of being perceived as biased against repubs that he instead acts biased against dems. He has truly been a failure at AG.. even more of a letdown than Mueller", ">\n\nWell, Garland is a conservative….. people think that he must be left wing because Obama nominated him for SCOTUS. NOPE! - he’s right wing and Obama was throwing the GOP a bone. The GOP just hated Obama so fucking much they slapped down a nominee that aligned with them.", ">\n\nTrue, Biden should have appointed someone else", ">\n\nOnly took a year and a half to appoint one for Trump. Also what about that DOJ policy about not investigating and prosecuting a sitting president which protected the former guy for, what, six years now?", ">\n\nGarland is not our friend.", ">\n\nWho’s friend, exactly? What does friendship have to do with accountability to rules and laws?\nAre you suggesting the DOJ should be aligned and friendly with one particular party or another and so they don’t have to follow rules and laws we expect others to comply with?", ">\n\nGarland is not a friend to justice.\nWhy has Trump not been indicted yet? What's the confusion?", ">\n\n\nWhy has Trump not been indicted yet?\n\nwhy would you expect him to have been? the investigation isn't over yet", ">\n\nit explains why they weren't indicted in the article", ">\n\nSome anonymous lawyer being quoted by CNN is not a definitive explanation at all. It's hearsay and well-meaning bullshit. But when the DOJ was asked? \"A spokesperson for the Department of Justice declined to comment.\" But if you do believe that anonymous source, do you really think they have executive privilege, as your source says? How TF do \"advisors\" get privilege?", ">\n\nthey worked in the White House", ">\n\nBad enough that everyone bought that crap, \"The president is immune to criminal prosecution and subpoenas.\" But now we're going to extend it to anyone who worked in the White House?! Holy cow you can't possibly believe that's a good idea.", ">\n\nAs. We. Would. Expect. 🤷‍♂️ \nCan't wait until Biden whines, makes excuses, tries to get a special master, claims that they where declassifi...... Oh wait. Dems don't do any of that.", ">\n\nIt doesn’t even matter cause republicans don’t care about mishandling classified document- oh wait…now they do.", ">\n\nAs a Democrat I am pretty pissed off at Biden for this, but I would be willing to bet he didn't know the documents were there. \nThat said, I am a strong believer in people being punished for breaking the law, even if they are on my \"team.\"\nIf he broke the law, punish him. \nJust make sure that that miserable, racist orange thing that yells all the time gets his as well.\nThis is the only way to have nice things.", ">\n\nBiden isn't asking for a special grand master or looking for a favorable court... weird.", ">\n\nLove how it took 2 years to do this for trump, and he ain't even president, 2 days for Biden and he is president. \nTo be clear, I'm not saying there shouldn't be an investigation, I'm saying Garland is showing his true colors pretty strongly with the disparity.\nEdit: I'm muting this thread, not trying to get banned for cussing some fool out again. Have a good night y'all.", ">\n\nThe difference will always be that most democrats are just fine with an investigation. Because they care about good governance instead of personality cults.", ">\n\nYeah, it's like Goofus and Gallant. Except Goofus wins every other election and beats your head in with a bat.", ">\n\nWeird how Garland can move with lightning speed when it’s a cover-your-ass political move. Lightning speed.", ">\n\nFucking ridiculous the kid-gloves treatment that Trump gets.", ">\n\nI feel like Trump is about to get his shit kicked in here by Jack Smith in about a month or so when the indictments start coming", ">\n\nI feel like someone has said this every month for the last 6 years. The point is, Trump is untouchable. His angry mob would never succeed in overthrowing the government, but they would likely affect quarterly profits.", ">\n\nThis right here. Gotta keep the wolves fed or they might bite you. \nDomestic Terrorism discourages commerce. They’re fucking cowards.", ">\n\nHow's that Trump indictment coming?", ">\n\nThis is all I'm concerned about. Biden's situation I'm sure will work itself out, but Trump has most certainly committed crimes well beyond and before simply having classified documents. I'm not even saying Biden hasn't broken the law, and he should be dealt with accordingly, but Trump has been a national security hazard and criminal since long before classified documents were found and obstruction was clearly committed to shield them, and this Biden situation should, in no way, get in the way of that case, which seems long overdue.", ">\n\nWeird. I thought the DOJ didn’t want to investigate presidents." ]

[ "Do a complete investigation, gather the evidence, follow all procedures and the law, seek justice without fear or favor no matter who is involved. Figure this mess out.", ">\n\nFully agree - and I'd actually like the investigation to be concluded swiftly since the ones being investigated will likely be 100% cooperative. It's not like DoJ will have to be dealing with full on liars and criminals which takes forever to find the answers.", ">\n\nI 100% agree that there ought to be a reasonable investigation into this but I do have to wonder if any of this matters at all given that Biden is currently the president and therefore has not only the right to have classified information but also the ability to declassify that information.\nNot trying to make excuses for the oversight (or lack thereof) of classified documents, but it seems to me as though this requires an investigation into how classified documents are handled during and after individuals have been given such status and after said status has lapsed.\nLet's be perfectly honest, if they had taken different actions on the first set of documents, we likely wouldn't even know about this because there was nobody searching for them.\nHad Biden and his lawyers actually been seriously corrupt, they could easily have disposed of them in a fireplace or down a toilet and no one would know the better.\nThe fact that they brought this directly to the attention of the proper authorities is at least proof that they do have respect for the rule of law and are willing to except the consequences, even if it is going to be used to make political hay while the sun shines.\nThat said, this likely has huge implications for executive privilege, especially to the extent that the former president argued he had. I personally do not have a problem with the minister of th Office of the President being able to be held accountable for their actions but only if it is equally applied across the board and not just something that we will have to deal with when presidents from the Democratic party are being scrutinized.", ">\n\n\nhas not only the right to have classified information but also the ability to declassify that information.\n\nHe does. But apparently these docs were from his Vice Presidency under Obama. So, it's a bit uncertain.\nAnd it really undermines at least one of the central charges you could have lodged against Trump, that everyone that is able to access classified documents has a substantive responsibility to make sure they are handled appropriately. The \"oh, well, we had to leave in a hurry and things just got mixed up\" arguments Trump could have made before would have had little merit - especially when you consider previous historic cases where even a single doc mishandled ended up with someone in jail.\nBut now Trump will be able to dilute that charge completely. He's still fucked on obstruction and everything else (hopefully).", ">\n\nClassified != Compartmentalized, Top Secret, etc.", ">\n\nI agree with you, but I was recently informed that sources say some of these classified documents were classified Top Secret.\nIt does appear as though ABC is confirming that sources are saying that some of these were top secret documents.\n\nSources also told ABC News that the original batch of about 10 documents found in November contains classified vice-presidential briefing papers about foreign countries, some of which were marked top secret.\n\nAnd CNN is not even using the journalistic term source, going so far as to assert that some of these documents were top secret.\n\nSome of the classified documents were “top secret,” the highest level. They were found in three or four boxes that also contained unclassified papers that fall under the Presidential Records Act, CNN has reported.\n\nIf we are going to maintain Integrity about the treatment of top secret classified documents, it is important to hold both sides accountable for their retention of documents.\nThank goodness that Biden's lawyers were up front with the FBI and NARA rather than lying about the retention of documents and obstructing an investigation.\nI really hope that Biden doesn't try to use the executive privilege argument to keep himself from investigation, but this is likely going to be a permanent stain on his reputation and definitely opens up the presidential field in the Democratic Party for 2024.", ">\n\nWhy would this be a permanent stain on Biden’s reputation?", ">\n\nBecause it will 100% be used along with whataboutism to suggest that Biden was going after Trump for the same thing that he was caught doing, regardless of the fact that Biden was not responsible for the investigation into Trump's documents has not been outspoken about the retention of documents, subsequent Lies by his lawyers, and obstruction.\nI'm not saying that it is going to be fair, or even rational but it is going to cause a stain and that will be used to pillory him.", ">\n\nSo in essence, this is only going to be a stain in the minds of people who are rather brainless to begin with….gotcha", ">\n\nIts a stain because it's political ammunition for the other side, not because you or I see it for the opportunitistically timed political assault that it seems to be. In modern politics, being on the defensive is the same as losing. Hillary Clinton's email fiasco likely contributed to the 2016 election results even though she wasn't indicted for a crime.\nThe people on the other side of the political spectrum who would consider this whole fiasco a stain on Biden AREN'T brainless, they're heavily propogandized, and they DO vote. This whole thing will be used to justify any or all of Trump's conduct that should be immediately disqualifying. Expect this to be split-screened with all of Trump's legal woes.\nHopefully Trump won't make it to the 2024 Election season as a viable candidate. If Trump does make it, Trump will use this against Biden. If Trump loses out to someone like DeSantis, there will be a concerted effort to crucify Biden with it.", ">\n\nMy favorite part of this:\nNo raging tweets from the president making up executive powers. Accusing people of planting evidence and arguing about a deep state conspiracy against him.", ">\n\nI’d be hilarious if he copy pasted one of trumps tweets and ended it with JK I’m not a raving lunatic in a middle of a tantrum.", ">\n\nThat would be some great dark Brandon shit.", ">\n\nI am all for a special counsel being appointed. But a Trump appointee feels like an attempt by Garland to bend over backwards to show just how apolitical he is. If he wanted to reach across the aisle, he couldn’t find a Bush appointee rather than someone appointed by a man who literally tried to upend the Republic and is known for appointing partisan hacks?", ">\n\nThis is how Garland has been acting since appointed. It’s like he’s so terrified of being perceived as biased against repubs that he instead acts biased against dems. He has truly been a failure at AG.. even more of a letdown than Mueller", ">\n\nWell, Garland is a conservative….. people think that he must be left wing because Obama nominated him for SCOTUS. NOPE! - he’s right wing and Obama was throwing the GOP a bone. The GOP just hated Obama so fucking much they slapped down a nominee that aligned with them.", ">\n\nTrue, Biden should have appointed someone else", ">\n\nOnly took a year and a half to appoint one for Trump. Also what about that DOJ policy about not investigating and prosecuting a sitting president which protected the former guy for, what, six years now?", ">\n\nGarland is not our friend.", ">\n\nWho’s friend, exactly? What does friendship have to do with accountability to rules and laws?\nAre you suggesting the DOJ should be aligned and friendly with one particular party or another and so they don’t have to follow rules and laws we expect others to comply with?", ">\n\nGarland is not a friend to justice.\nWhy has Trump not been indicted yet? What's the confusion?", ">\n\n\nWhy has Trump not been indicted yet?\n\nwhy would you expect him to have been? the investigation isn't over yet", ">\n\nit explains why they weren't indicted in the article", ">\n\nSome anonymous lawyer being quoted by CNN is not a definitive explanation at all. It's hearsay and well-meaning bullshit. But when the DOJ was asked? \"A spokesperson for the Department of Justice declined to comment.\" But if you do believe that anonymous source, do you really think they have executive privilege, as your source says? How TF do \"advisors\" get privilege?", ">\n\nthey worked in the White House", ">\n\nBad enough that everyone bought that crap, \"The president is immune to criminal prosecution and subpoenas.\" But now we're going to extend it to anyone who worked in the White House?! Holy cow you can't possibly believe that's a good idea.", ">\n\nAs. We. Would. Expect. 🤷‍♂️ \nCan't wait until Biden whines, makes excuses, tries to get a special master, claims that they where declassifi...... Oh wait. Dems don't do any of that.", ">\n\nIt doesn’t even matter cause republicans don’t care about mishandling classified document- oh wait…now they do.", ">\n\nAs a Democrat I am pretty pissed off at Biden for this, but I would be willing to bet he didn't know the documents were there. \nThat said, I am a strong believer in people being punished for breaking the law, even if they are on my \"team.\"\nIf he broke the law, punish him. \nJust make sure that that miserable, racist orange thing that yells all the time gets his as well.\nThis is the only way to have nice things.", ">\n\nBiden isn't asking for a special grand master or looking for a favorable court... weird.", ">\n\nLove how it took 2 years to do this for trump, and he ain't even president, 2 days for Biden and he is president. \nTo be clear, I'm not saying there shouldn't be an investigation, I'm saying Garland is showing his true colors pretty strongly with the disparity.\nEdit: I'm muting this thread, not trying to get banned for cussing some fool out again. Have a good night y'all.", ">\n\nThe difference will always be that most democrats are just fine with an investigation. Because they care about good governance instead of personality cults.", ">\n\nYeah, it's like Goofus and Gallant. Except Goofus wins every other election and beats your head in with a bat.", ">\n\nWeird how Garland can move with lightning speed when it’s a cover-your-ass political move. Lightning speed.", ">\n\nFucking ridiculous the kid-gloves treatment that Trump gets.", ">\n\nI feel like Trump is about to get his shit kicked in here by Jack Smith in about a month or so when the indictments start coming", ">\n\nI feel like someone has said this every month for the last 6 years. The point is, Trump is untouchable. His angry mob would never succeed in overthrowing the government, but they would likely affect quarterly profits.", ">\n\nThis right here. Gotta keep the wolves fed or they might bite you. \nDomestic Terrorism discourages commerce. They’re fucking cowards.", ">\n\nHow's that Trump indictment coming?", ">\n\nThis is all I'm concerned about. Biden's situation I'm sure will work itself out, but Trump has most certainly committed crimes well beyond and before simply having classified documents. I'm not even saying Biden hasn't broken the law, and he should be dealt with accordingly, but Trump has been a national security hazard and criminal since long before classified documents were found and obstruction was clearly committed to shield them, and this Biden situation should, in no way, get in the way of that case, which seems long overdue.", ">\n\nWeird. I thought the DOJ didn’t want to investigate presidents.", ">\n\nWeird, I recall the DOJ investigating Trump while he was president. And Clinton." ]

[ "Do a complete investigation, gather the evidence, follow all procedures and the law, seek justice without fear or favor no matter who is involved. Figure this mess out.", ">\n\nFully agree - and I'd actually like the investigation to be concluded swiftly since the ones being investigated will likely be 100% cooperative. It's not like DoJ will have to be dealing with full on liars and criminals which takes forever to find the answers.", ">\n\nI 100% agree that there ought to be a reasonable investigation into this but I do have to wonder if any of this matters at all given that Biden is currently the president and therefore has not only the right to have classified information but also the ability to declassify that information.\nNot trying to make excuses for the oversight (or lack thereof) of classified documents, but it seems to me as though this requires an investigation into how classified documents are handled during and after individuals have been given such status and after said status has lapsed.\nLet's be perfectly honest, if they had taken different actions on the first set of documents, we likely wouldn't even know about this because there was nobody searching for them.\nHad Biden and his lawyers actually been seriously corrupt, they could easily have disposed of them in a fireplace or down a toilet and no one would know the better.\nThe fact that they brought this directly to the attention of the proper authorities is at least proof that they do have respect for the rule of law and are willing to except the consequences, even if it is going to be used to make political hay while the sun shines.\nThat said, this likely has huge implications for executive privilege, especially to the extent that the former president argued he had. I personally do not have a problem with the minister of th Office of the President being able to be held accountable for their actions but only if it is equally applied across the board and not just something that we will have to deal with when presidents from the Democratic party are being scrutinized.", ">\n\n\nhas not only the right to have classified information but also the ability to declassify that information.\n\nHe does. But apparently these docs were from his Vice Presidency under Obama. So, it's a bit uncertain.\nAnd it really undermines at least one of the central charges you could have lodged against Trump, that everyone that is able to access classified documents has a substantive responsibility to make sure they are handled appropriately. The \"oh, well, we had to leave in a hurry and things just got mixed up\" arguments Trump could have made before would have had little merit - especially when you consider previous historic cases where even a single doc mishandled ended up with someone in jail.\nBut now Trump will be able to dilute that charge completely. He's still fucked on obstruction and everything else (hopefully).", ">\n\nClassified != Compartmentalized, Top Secret, etc.", ">\n\nI agree with you, but I was recently informed that sources say some of these classified documents were classified Top Secret.\nIt does appear as though ABC is confirming that sources are saying that some of these were top secret documents.\n\nSources also told ABC News that the original batch of about 10 documents found in November contains classified vice-presidential briefing papers about foreign countries, some of which were marked top secret.\n\nAnd CNN is not even using the journalistic term source, going so far as to assert that some of these documents were top secret.\n\nSome of the classified documents were “top secret,” the highest level. They were found in three or four boxes that also contained unclassified papers that fall under the Presidential Records Act, CNN has reported.\n\nIf we are going to maintain Integrity about the treatment of top secret classified documents, it is important to hold both sides accountable for their retention of documents.\nThank goodness that Biden's lawyers were up front with the FBI and NARA rather than lying about the retention of documents and obstructing an investigation.\nI really hope that Biden doesn't try to use the executive privilege argument to keep himself from investigation, but this is likely going to be a permanent stain on his reputation and definitely opens up the presidential field in the Democratic Party for 2024.", ">\n\nWhy would this be a permanent stain on Biden’s reputation?", ">\n\nBecause it will 100% be used along with whataboutism to suggest that Biden was going after Trump for the same thing that he was caught doing, regardless of the fact that Biden was not responsible for the investigation into Trump's documents has not been outspoken about the retention of documents, subsequent Lies by his lawyers, and obstruction.\nI'm not saying that it is going to be fair, or even rational but it is going to cause a stain and that will be used to pillory him.", ">\n\nSo in essence, this is only going to be a stain in the minds of people who are rather brainless to begin with….gotcha", ">\n\nIts a stain because it's political ammunition for the other side, not because you or I see it for the opportunitistically timed political assault that it seems to be. In modern politics, being on the defensive is the same as losing. Hillary Clinton's email fiasco likely contributed to the 2016 election results even though she wasn't indicted for a crime.\nThe people on the other side of the political spectrum who would consider this whole fiasco a stain on Biden AREN'T brainless, they're heavily propogandized, and they DO vote. This whole thing will be used to justify any or all of Trump's conduct that should be immediately disqualifying. Expect this to be split-screened with all of Trump's legal woes.\nHopefully Trump won't make it to the 2024 Election season as a viable candidate. If Trump does make it, Trump will use this against Biden. If Trump loses out to someone like DeSantis, there will be a concerted effort to crucify Biden with it.", ">\n\nMy favorite part of this:\nNo raging tweets from the president making up executive powers. Accusing people of planting evidence and arguing about a deep state conspiracy against him.", ">\n\nI’d be hilarious if he copy pasted one of trumps tweets and ended it with JK I’m not a raving lunatic in a middle of a tantrum.", ">\n\nThat would be some great dark Brandon shit.", ">\n\nI am all for a special counsel being appointed. But a Trump appointee feels like an attempt by Garland to bend over backwards to show just how apolitical he is. If he wanted to reach across the aisle, he couldn’t find a Bush appointee rather than someone appointed by a man who literally tried to upend the Republic and is known for appointing partisan hacks?", ">\n\nThis is how Garland has been acting since appointed. It’s like he’s so terrified of being perceived as biased against repubs that he instead acts biased against dems. He has truly been a failure at AG.. even more of a letdown than Mueller", ">\n\nWell, Garland is a conservative….. people think that he must be left wing because Obama nominated him for SCOTUS. NOPE! - he’s right wing and Obama was throwing the GOP a bone. The GOP just hated Obama so fucking much they slapped down a nominee that aligned with them.", ">\n\nTrue, Biden should have appointed someone else", ">\n\nOnly took a year and a half to appoint one for Trump. Also what about that DOJ policy about not investigating and prosecuting a sitting president which protected the former guy for, what, six years now?", ">\n\nGarland is not our friend.", ">\n\nWho’s friend, exactly? What does friendship have to do with accountability to rules and laws?\nAre you suggesting the DOJ should be aligned and friendly with one particular party or another and so they don’t have to follow rules and laws we expect others to comply with?", ">\n\nGarland is not a friend to justice.\nWhy has Trump not been indicted yet? What's the confusion?", ">\n\n\nWhy has Trump not been indicted yet?\n\nwhy would you expect him to have been? the investigation isn't over yet", ">\n\nit explains why they weren't indicted in the article", ">\n\nSome anonymous lawyer being quoted by CNN is not a definitive explanation at all. It's hearsay and well-meaning bullshit. But when the DOJ was asked? \"A spokesperson for the Department of Justice declined to comment.\" But if you do believe that anonymous source, do you really think they have executive privilege, as your source says? How TF do \"advisors\" get privilege?", ">\n\nthey worked in the White House", ">\n\nBad enough that everyone bought that crap, \"The president is immune to criminal prosecution and subpoenas.\" But now we're going to extend it to anyone who worked in the White House?! Holy cow you can't possibly believe that's a good idea.", ">\n\nAs. We. Would. Expect. 🤷‍♂️ \nCan't wait until Biden whines, makes excuses, tries to get a special master, claims that they where declassifi...... Oh wait. Dems don't do any of that.", ">\n\nIt doesn’t even matter cause republicans don’t care about mishandling classified document- oh wait…now they do.", ">\n\nAs a Democrat I am pretty pissed off at Biden for this, but I would be willing to bet he didn't know the documents were there. \nThat said, I am a strong believer in people being punished for breaking the law, even if they are on my \"team.\"\nIf he broke the law, punish him. \nJust make sure that that miserable, racist orange thing that yells all the time gets his as well.\nThis is the only way to have nice things.", ">\n\nBiden isn't asking for a special grand master or looking for a favorable court... weird.", ">\n\nLove how it took 2 years to do this for trump, and he ain't even president, 2 days for Biden and he is president. \nTo be clear, I'm not saying there shouldn't be an investigation, I'm saying Garland is showing his true colors pretty strongly with the disparity.\nEdit: I'm muting this thread, not trying to get banned for cussing some fool out again. Have a good night y'all.", ">\n\nThe difference will always be that most democrats are just fine with an investigation. Because they care about good governance instead of personality cults.", ">\n\nYeah, it's like Goofus and Gallant. Except Goofus wins every other election and beats your head in with a bat.", ">\n\nWeird how Garland can move with lightning speed when it’s a cover-your-ass political move. Lightning speed.", ">\n\nFucking ridiculous the kid-gloves treatment that Trump gets.", ">\n\nI feel like Trump is about to get his shit kicked in here by Jack Smith in about a month or so when the indictments start coming", ">\n\nI feel like someone has said this every month for the last 6 years. The point is, Trump is untouchable. His angry mob would never succeed in overthrowing the government, but they would likely affect quarterly profits.", ">\n\nThis right here. Gotta keep the wolves fed or they might bite you. \nDomestic Terrorism discourages commerce. They’re fucking cowards.", ">\n\nHow's that Trump indictment coming?", ">\n\nThis is all I'm concerned about. Biden's situation I'm sure will work itself out, but Trump has most certainly committed crimes well beyond and before simply having classified documents. I'm not even saying Biden hasn't broken the law, and he should be dealt with accordingly, but Trump has been a national security hazard and criminal since long before classified documents were found and obstruction was clearly committed to shield them, and this Biden situation should, in no way, get in the way of that case, which seems long overdue.", ">\n\nWeird. I thought the DOJ didn’t want to investigate presidents.", ">\n\nWeird, I recall the DOJ investigating Trump while he was president. And Clinton.", ">\n\nI'm not confused about it. There's no policy against investigating presidents, which is why the numerous investigations into recent sitting presidents happened and were not against any policy. There is a policy against indicting them, though that's not legally binding in any way, just a stated approach that the Justice dept. has outlined in the past." ]

[ "Do a complete investigation, gather the evidence, follow all procedures and the law, seek justice without fear or favor no matter who is involved. Figure this mess out.", ">\n\nFully agree - and I'd actually like the investigation to be concluded swiftly since the ones being investigated will likely be 100% cooperative. It's not like DoJ will have to be dealing with full on liars and criminals which takes forever to find the answers.", ">\n\nI 100% agree that there ought to be a reasonable investigation into this but I do have to wonder if any of this matters at all given that Biden is currently the president and therefore has not only the right to have classified information but also the ability to declassify that information.\nNot trying to make excuses for the oversight (or lack thereof) of classified documents, but it seems to me as though this requires an investigation into how classified documents are handled during and after individuals have been given such status and after said status has lapsed.\nLet's be perfectly honest, if they had taken different actions on the first set of documents, we likely wouldn't even know about this because there was nobody searching for them.\nHad Biden and his lawyers actually been seriously corrupt, they could easily have disposed of them in a fireplace or down a toilet and no one would know the better.\nThe fact that they brought this directly to the attention of the proper authorities is at least proof that they do have respect for the rule of law and are willing to except the consequences, even if it is going to be used to make political hay while the sun shines.\nThat said, this likely has huge implications for executive privilege, especially to the extent that the former president argued he had. I personally do not have a problem with the minister of th Office of the President being able to be held accountable for their actions but only if it is equally applied across the board and not just something that we will have to deal with when presidents from the Democratic party are being scrutinized.", ">\n\n\nhas not only the right to have classified information but also the ability to declassify that information.\n\nHe does. But apparently these docs were from his Vice Presidency under Obama. So, it's a bit uncertain.\nAnd it really undermines at least one of the central charges you could have lodged against Trump, that everyone that is able to access classified documents has a substantive responsibility to make sure they are handled appropriately. The \"oh, well, we had to leave in a hurry and things just got mixed up\" arguments Trump could have made before would have had little merit - especially when you consider previous historic cases where even a single doc mishandled ended up with someone in jail.\nBut now Trump will be able to dilute that charge completely. He's still fucked on obstruction and everything else (hopefully).", ">\n\nClassified != Compartmentalized, Top Secret, etc.", ">\n\nI agree with you, but I was recently informed that sources say some of these classified documents were classified Top Secret.\nIt does appear as though ABC is confirming that sources are saying that some of these were top secret documents.\n\nSources also told ABC News that the original batch of about 10 documents found in November contains classified vice-presidential briefing papers about foreign countries, some of which were marked top secret.\n\nAnd CNN is not even using the journalistic term source, going so far as to assert that some of these documents were top secret.\n\nSome of the classified documents were “top secret,” the highest level. They were found in three or four boxes that also contained unclassified papers that fall under the Presidential Records Act, CNN has reported.\n\nIf we are going to maintain Integrity about the treatment of top secret classified documents, it is important to hold both sides accountable for their retention of documents.\nThank goodness that Biden's lawyers were up front with the FBI and NARA rather than lying about the retention of documents and obstructing an investigation.\nI really hope that Biden doesn't try to use the executive privilege argument to keep himself from investigation, but this is likely going to be a permanent stain on his reputation and definitely opens up the presidential field in the Democratic Party for 2024.", ">\n\nWhy would this be a permanent stain on Biden’s reputation?", ">\n\nBecause it will 100% be used along with whataboutism to suggest that Biden was going after Trump for the same thing that he was caught doing, regardless of the fact that Biden was not responsible for the investigation into Trump's documents has not been outspoken about the retention of documents, subsequent Lies by his lawyers, and obstruction.\nI'm not saying that it is going to be fair, or even rational but it is going to cause a stain and that will be used to pillory him.", ">\n\nSo in essence, this is only going to be a stain in the minds of people who are rather brainless to begin with….gotcha", ">\n\nIts a stain because it's political ammunition for the other side, not because you or I see it for the opportunitistically timed political assault that it seems to be. In modern politics, being on the defensive is the same as losing. Hillary Clinton's email fiasco likely contributed to the 2016 election results even though she wasn't indicted for a crime.\nThe people on the other side of the political spectrum who would consider this whole fiasco a stain on Biden AREN'T brainless, they're heavily propogandized, and they DO vote. This whole thing will be used to justify any or all of Trump's conduct that should be immediately disqualifying. Expect this to be split-screened with all of Trump's legal woes.\nHopefully Trump won't make it to the 2024 Election season as a viable candidate. If Trump does make it, Trump will use this against Biden. If Trump loses out to someone like DeSantis, there will be a concerted effort to crucify Biden with it.", ">\n\nMy favorite part of this:\nNo raging tweets from the president making up executive powers. Accusing people of planting evidence and arguing about a deep state conspiracy against him.", ">\n\nI’d be hilarious if he copy pasted one of trumps tweets and ended it with JK I’m not a raving lunatic in a middle of a tantrum.", ">\n\nThat would be some great dark Brandon shit.", ">\n\nI am all for a special counsel being appointed. But a Trump appointee feels like an attempt by Garland to bend over backwards to show just how apolitical he is. If he wanted to reach across the aisle, he couldn’t find a Bush appointee rather than someone appointed by a man who literally tried to upend the Republic and is known for appointing partisan hacks?", ">\n\nThis is how Garland has been acting since appointed. It’s like he’s so terrified of being perceived as biased against repubs that he instead acts biased against dems. He has truly been a failure at AG.. even more of a letdown than Mueller", ">\n\nWell, Garland is a conservative….. people think that he must be left wing because Obama nominated him for SCOTUS. NOPE! - he’s right wing and Obama was throwing the GOP a bone. The GOP just hated Obama so fucking much they slapped down a nominee that aligned with them.", ">\n\nTrue, Biden should have appointed someone else", ">\n\nOnly took a year and a half to appoint one for Trump. Also what about that DOJ policy about not investigating and prosecuting a sitting president which protected the former guy for, what, six years now?", ">\n\nGarland is not our friend.", ">\n\nWho’s friend, exactly? What does friendship have to do with accountability to rules and laws?\nAre you suggesting the DOJ should be aligned and friendly with one particular party or another and so they don’t have to follow rules and laws we expect others to comply with?", ">\n\nGarland is not a friend to justice.\nWhy has Trump not been indicted yet? What's the confusion?", ">\n\n\nWhy has Trump not been indicted yet?\n\nwhy would you expect him to have been? the investigation isn't over yet", ">\n\nit explains why they weren't indicted in the article", ">\n\nSome anonymous lawyer being quoted by CNN is not a definitive explanation at all. It's hearsay and well-meaning bullshit. But when the DOJ was asked? \"A spokesperson for the Department of Justice declined to comment.\" But if you do believe that anonymous source, do you really think they have executive privilege, as your source says? How TF do \"advisors\" get privilege?", ">\n\nthey worked in the White House", ">\n\nBad enough that everyone bought that crap, \"The president is immune to criminal prosecution and subpoenas.\" But now we're going to extend it to anyone who worked in the White House?! Holy cow you can't possibly believe that's a good idea.", ">\n\nAs. We. Would. Expect. 🤷‍♂️ \nCan't wait until Biden whines, makes excuses, tries to get a special master, claims that they where declassifi...... Oh wait. Dems don't do any of that.", ">\n\nIt doesn’t even matter cause republicans don’t care about mishandling classified document- oh wait…now they do.", ">\n\nAs a Democrat I am pretty pissed off at Biden for this, but I would be willing to bet he didn't know the documents were there. \nThat said, I am a strong believer in people being punished for breaking the law, even if they are on my \"team.\"\nIf he broke the law, punish him. \nJust make sure that that miserable, racist orange thing that yells all the time gets his as well.\nThis is the only way to have nice things.", ">\n\nBiden isn't asking for a special grand master or looking for a favorable court... weird.", ">\n\nLove how it took 2 years to do this for trump, and he ain't even president, 2 days for Biden and he is president. \nTo be clear, I'm not saying there shouldn't be an investigation, I'm saying Garland is showing his true colors pretty strongly with the disparity.\nEdit: I'm muting this thread, not trying to get banned for cussing some fool out again. Have a good night y'all.", ">\n\nThe difference will always be that most democrats are just fine with an investigation. Because they care about good governance instead of personality cults.", ">\n\nYeah, it's like Goofus and Gallant. Except Goofus wins every other election and beats your head in with a bat.", ">\n\nWeird how Garland can move with lightning speed when it’s a cover-your-ass political move. Lightning speed.", ">\n\nFucking ridiculous the kid-gloves treatment that Trump gets.", ">\n\nI feel like Trump is about to get his shit kicked in here by Jack Smith in about a month or so when the indictments start coming", ">\n\nI feel like someone has said this every month for the last 6 years. The point is, Trump is untouchable. His angry mob would never succeed in overthrowing the government, but they would likely affect quarterly profits.", ">\n\nThis right here. Gotta keep the wolves fed or they might bite you. \nDomestic Terrorism discourages commerce. They’re fucking cowards.", ">\n\nHow's that Trump indictment coming?", ">\n\nThis is all I'm concerned about. Biden's situation I'm sure will work itself out, but Trump has most certainly committed crimes well beyond and before simply having classified documents. I'm not even saying Biden hasn't broken the law, and he should be dealt with accordingly, but Trump has been a national security hazard and criminal since long before classified documents were found and obstruction was clearly committed to shield them, and this Biden situation should, in no way, get in the way of that case, which seems long overdue.", ">\n\nWeird. I thought the DOJ didn’t want to investigate presidents.", ">\n\nWeird, I recall the DOJ investigating Trump while he was president. And Clinton.", ">\n\nI'm not confused about it. There's no policy against investigating presidents, which is why the numerous investigations into recent sitting presidents happened and were not against any policy. There is a policy against indicting them, though that's not legally binding in any way, just a stated approach that the Justice dept. has outlined in the past.", ">\n\nThe difference between Republicans and Dems is on display again. \nNo cults, no obstructing. Let the legal system do its thing." ]

[ "Do a complete investigation, gather the evidence, follow all procedures and the law, seek justice without fear or favor no matter who is involved. Figure this mess out.", ">\n\nFully agree - and I'd actually like the investigation to be concluded swiftly since the ones being investigated will likely be 100% cooperative. It's not like DoJ will have to be dealing with full on liars and criminals which takes forever to find the answers.", ">\n\nI 100% agree that there ought to be a reasonable investigation into this but I do have to wonder if any of this matters at all given that Biden is currently the president and therefore has not only the right to have classified information but also the ability to declassify that information.\nNot trying to make excuses for the oversight (or lack thereof) of classified documents, but it seems to me as though this requires an investigation into how classified documents are handled during and after individuals have been given such status and after said status has lapsed.\nLet's be perfectly honest, if they had taken different actions on the first set of documents, we likely wouldn't even know about this because there was nobody searching for them.\nHad Biden and his lawyers actually been seriously corrupt, they could easily have disposed of them in a fireplace or down a toilet and no one would know the better.\nThe fact that they brought this directly to the attention of the proper authorities is at least proof that they do have respect for the rule of law and are willing to except the consequences, even if it is going to be used to make political hay while the sun shines.\nThat said, this likely has huge implications for executive privilege, especially to the extent that the former president argued he had. I personally do not have a problem with the minister of th Office of the President being able to be held accountable for their actions but only if it is equally applied across the board and not just something that we will have to deal with when presidents from the Democratic party are being scrutinized.", ">\n\n\nhas not only the right to have classified information but also the ability to declassify that information.\n\nHe does. But apparently these docs were from his Vice Presidency under Obama. So, it's a bit uncertain.\nAnd it really undermines at least one of the central charges you could have lodged against Trump, that everyone that is able to access classified documents has a substantive responsibility to make sure they are handled appropriately. The \"oh, well, we had to leave in a hurry and things just got mixed up\" arguments Trump could have made before would have had little merit - especially when you consider previous historic cases where even a single doc mishandled ended up with someone in jail.\nBut now Trump will be able to dilute that charge completely. He's still fucked on obstruction and everything else (hopefully).", ">\n\nClassified != Compartmentalized, Top Secret, etc.", ">\n\nI agree with you, but I was recently informed that sources say some of these classified documents were classified Top Secret.\nIt does appear as though ABC is confirming that sources are saying that some of these were top secret documents.\n\nSources also told ABC News that the original batch of about 10 documents found in November contains classified vice-presidential briefing papers about foreign countries, some of which were marked top secret.\n\nAnd CNN is not even using the journalistic term source, going so far as to assert that some of these documents were top secret.\n\nSome of the classified documents were “top secret,” the highest level. They were found in three or four boxes that also contained unclassified papers that fall under the Presidential Records Act, CNN has reported.\n\nIf we are going to maintain Integrity about the treatment of top secret classified documents, it is important to hold both sides accountable for their retention of documents.\nThank goodness that Biden's lawyers were up front with the FBI and NARA rather than lying about the retention of documents and obstructing an investigation.\nI really hope that Biden doesn't try to use the executive privilege argument to keep himself from investigation, but this is likely going to be a permanent stain on his reputation and definitely opens up the presidential field in the Democratic Party for 2024.", ">\n\nWhy would this be a permanent stain on Biden’s reputation?", ">\n\nBecause it will 100% be used along with whataboutism to suggest that Biden was going after Trump for the same thing that he was caught doing, regardless of the fact that Biden was not responsible for the investigation into Trump's documents has not been outspoken about the retention of documents, subsequent Lies by his lawyers, and obstruction.\nI'm not saying that it is going to be fair, or even rational but it is going to cause a stain and that will be used to pillory him.", ">\n\nSo in essence, this is only going to be a stain in the minds of people who are rather brainless to begin with….gotcha", ">\n\nIts a stain because it's political ammunition for the other side, not because you or I see it for the opportunitistically timed political assault that it seems to be. In modern politics, being on the defensive is the same as losing. Hillary Clinton's email fiasco likely contributed to the 2016 election results even though she wasn't indicted for a crime.\nThe people on the other side of the political spectrum who would consider this whole fiasco a stain on Biden AREN'T brainless, they're heavily propogandized, and they DO vote. This whole thing will be used to justify any or all of Trump's conduct that should be immediately disqualifying. Expect this to be split-screened with all of Trump's legal woes.\nHopefully Trump won't make it to the 2024 Election season as a viable candidate. If Trump does make it, Trump will use this against Biden. If Trump loses out to someone like DeSantis, there will be a concerted effort to crucify Biden with it.", ">\n\nMy favorite part of this:\nNo raging tweets from the president making up executive powers. Accusing people of planting evidence and arguing about a deep state conspiracy against him.", ">\n\nI’d be hilarious if he copy pasted one of trumps tweets and ended it with JK I’m not a raving lunatic in a middle of a tantrum.", ">\n\nThat would be some great dark Brandon shit.", ">\n\nI am all for a special counsel being appointed. But a Trump appointee feels like an attempt by Garland to bend over backwards to show just how apolitical he is. If he wanted to reach across the aisle, he couldn’t find a Bush appointee rather than someone appointed by a man who literally tried to upend the Republic and is known for appointing partisan hacks?", ">\n\nThis is how Garland has been acting since appointed. It’s like he’s so terrified of being perceived as biased against repubs that he instead acts biased against dems. He has truly been a failure at AG.. even more of a letdown than Mueller", ">\n\nWell, Garland is a conservative….. people think that he must be left wing because Obama nominated him for SCOTUS. NOPE! - he’s right wing and Obama was throwing the GOP a bone. The GOP just hated Obama so fucking much they slapped down a nominee that aligned with them.", ">\n\nTrue, Biden should have appointed someone else", ">\n\nOnly took a year and a half to appoint one for Trump. Also what about that DOJ policy about not investigating and prosecuting a sitting president which protected the former guy for, what, six years now?", ">\n\nGarland is not our friend.", ">\n\nWho’s friend, exactly? What does friendship have to do with accountability to rules and laws?\nAre you suggesting the DOJ should be aligned and friendly with one particular party or another and so they don’t have to follow rules and laws we expect others to comply with?", ">\n\nGarland is not a friend to justice.\nWhy has Trump not been indicted yet? What's the confusion?", ">\n\n\nWhy has Trump not been indicted yet?\n\nwhy would you expect him to have been? the investigation isn't over yet", ">\n\nit explains why they weren't indicted in the article", ">\n\nSome anonymous lawyer being quoted by CNN is not a definitive explanation at all. It's hearsay and well-meaning bullshit. But when the DOJ was asked? \"A spokesperson for the Department of Justice declined to comment.\" But if you do believe that anonymous source, do you really think they have executive privilege, as your source says? How TF do \"advisors\" get privilege?", ">\n\nthey worked in the White House", ">\n\nBad enough that everyone bought that crap, \"The president is immune to criminal prosecution and subpoenas.\" But now we're going to extend it to anyone who worked in the White House?! Holy cow you can't possibly believe that's a good idea.", ">\n\nAs. We. Would. Expect. 🤷‍♂️ \nCan't wait until Biden whines, makes excuses, tries to get a special master, claims that they where declassifi...... Oh wait. Dems don't do any of that.", ">\n\nIt doesn’t even matter cause republicans don’t care about mishandling classified document- oh wait…now they do.", ">\n\nAs a Democrat I am pretty pissed off at Biden for this, but I would be willing to bet he didn't know the documents were there. \nThat said, I am a strong believer in people being punished for breaking the law, even if they are on my \"team.\"\nIf he broke the law, punish him. \nJust make sure that that miserable, racist orange thing that yells all the time gets his as well.\nThis is the only way to have nice things.", ">\n\nBiden isn't asking for a special grand master or looking for a favorable court... weird.", ">\n\nLove how it took 2 years to do this for trump, and he ain't even president, 2 days for Biden and he is president. \nTo be clear, I'm not saying there shouldn't be an investigation, I'm saying Garland is showing his true colors pretty strongly with the disparity.\nEdit: I'm muting this thread, not trying to get banned for cussing some fool out again. Have a good night y'all.", ">\n\nThe difference will always be that most democrats are just fine with an investigation. Because they care about good governance instead of personality cults.", ">\n\nYeah, it's like Goofus and Gallant. Except Goofus wins every other election and beats your head in with a bat.", ">\n\nWeird how Garland can move with lightning speed when it’s a cover-your-ass political move. Lightning speed.", ">\n\nFucking ridiculous the kid-gloves treatment that Trump gets.", ">\n\nI feel like Trump is about to get his shit kicked in here by Jack Smith in about a month or so when the indictments start coming", ">\n\nI feel like someone has said this every month for the last 6 years. The point is, Trump is untouchable. His angry mob would never succeed in overthrowing the government, but they would likely affect quarterly profits.", ">\n\nThis right here. Gotta keep the wolves fed or they might bite you. \nDomestic Terrorism discourages commerce. They’re fucking cowards.", ">\n\nHow's that Trump indictment coming?", ">\n\nThis is all I'm concerned about. Biden's situation I'm sure will work itself out, but Trump has most certainly committed crimes well beyond and before simply having classified documents. I'm not even saying Biden hasn't broken the law, and he should be dealt with accordingly, but Trump has been a national security hazard and criminal since long before classified documents were found and obstruction was clearly committed to shield them, and this Biden situation should, in no way, get in the way of that case, which seems long overdue.", ">\n\nWeird. I thought the DOJ didn’t want to investigate presidents.", ">\n\nWeird, I recall the DOJ investigating Trump while he was president. And Clinton.", ">\n\nI'm not confused about it. There's no policy against investigating presidents, which is why the numerous investigations into recent sitting presidents happened and were not against any policy. There is a policy against indicting them, though that's not legally binding in any way, just a stated approach that the Justice dept. has outlined in the past.", ">\n\nThe difference between Republicans and Dems is on display again. \nNo cults, no obstructing. Let the legal system do its thing.", ">\n\nSo... he can move fast??" ]

[ "Do a complete investigation, gather the evidence, follow all procedures and the law, seek justice without fear or favor no matter who is involved. Figure this mess out.", ">\n\nFully agree - and I'd actually like the investigation to be concluded swiftly since the ones being investigated will likely be 100% cooperative. It's not like DoJ will have to be dealing with full on liars and criminals which takes forever to find the answers.", ">\n\nI 100% agree that there ought to be a reasonable investigation into this but I do have to wonder if any of this matters at all given that Biden is currently the president and therefore has not only the right to have classified information but also the ability to declassify that information.\nNot trying to make excuses for the oversight (or lack thereof) of classified documents, but it seems to me as though this requires an investigation into how classified documents are handled during and after individuals have been given such status and after said status has lapsed.\nLet's be perfectly honest, if they had taken different actions on the first set of documents, we likely wouldn't even know about this because there was nobody searching for them.\nHad Biden and his lawyers actually been seriously corrupt, they could easily have disposed of them in a fireplace or down a toilet and no one would know the better.\nThe fact that they brought this directly to the attention of the proper authorities is at least proof that they do have respect for the rule of law and are willing to except the consequences, even if it is going to be used to make political hay while the sun shines.\nThat said, this likely has huge implications for executive privilege, especially to the extent that the former president argued he had. I personally do not have a problem with the minister of th Office of the President being able to be held accountable for their actions but only if it is equally applied across the board and not just something that we will have to deal with when presidents from the Democratic party are being scrutinized.", ">\n\n\nhas not only the right to have classified information but also the ability to declassify that information.\n\nHe does. But apparently these docs were from his Vice Presidency under Obama. So, it's a bit uncertain.\nAnd it really undermines at least one of the central charges you could have lodged against Trump, that everyone that is able to access classified documents has a substantive responsibility to make sure they are handled appropriately. The \"oh, well, we had to leave in a hurry and things just got mixed up\" arguments Trump could have made before would have had little merit - especially when you consider previous historic cases where even a single doc mishandled ended up with someone in jail.\nBut now Trump will be able to dilute that charge completely. He's still fucked on obstruction and everything else (hopefully).", ">\n\nClassified != Compartmentalized, Top Secret, etc.", ">\n\nI agree with you, but I was recently informed that sources say some of these classified documents were classified Top Secret.\nIt does appear as though ABC is confirming that sources are saying that some of these were top secret documents.\n\nSources also told ABC News that the original batch of about 10 documents found in November contains classified vice-presidential briefing papers about foreign countries, some of which were marked top secret.\n\nAnd CNN is not even using the journalistic term source, going so far as to assert that some of these documents were top secret.\n\nSome of the classified documents were “top secret,” the highest level. They were found in three or four boxes that also contained unclassified papers that fall under the Presidential Records Act, CNN has reported.\n\nIf we are going to maintain Integrity about the treatment of top secret classified documents, it is important to hold both sides accountable for their retention of documents.\nThank goodness that Biden's lawyers were up front with the FBI and NARA rather than lying about the retention of documents and obstructing an investigation.\nI really hope that Biden doesn't try to use the executive privilege argument to keep himself from investigation, but this is likely going to be a permanent stain on his reputation and definitely opens up the presidential field in the Democratic Party for 2024.", ">\n\nWhy would this be a permanent stain on Biden’s reputation?", ">\n\nBecause it will 100% be used along with whataboutism to suggest that Biden was going after Trump for the same thing that he was caught doing, regardless of the fact that Biden was not responsible for the investigation into Trump's documents has not been outspoken about the retention of documents, subsequent Lies by his lawyers, and obstruction.\nI'm not saying that it is going to be fair, or even rational but it is going to cause a stain and that will be used to pillory him.", ">\n\nSo in essence, this is only going to be a stain in the minds of people who are rather brainless to begin with….gotcha", ">\n\nIts a stain because it's political ammunition for the other side, not because you or I see it for the opportunitistically timed political assault that it seems to be. In modern politics, being on the defensive is the same as losing. Hillary Clinton's email fiasco likely contributed to the 2016 election results even though she wasn't indicted for a crime.\nThe people on the other side of the political spectrum who would consider this whole fiasco a stain on Biden AREN'T brainless, they're heavily propogandized, and they DO vote. This whole thing will be used to justify any or all of Trump's conduct that should be immediately disqualifying. Expect this to be split-screened with all of Trump's legal woes.\nHopefully Trump won't make it to the 2024 Election season as a viable candidate. If Trump does make it, Trump will use this against Biden. If Trump loses out to someone like DeSantis, there will be a concerted effort to crucify Biden with it.", ">\n\nMy favorite part of this:\nNo raging tweets from the president making up executive powers. Accusing people of planting evidence and arguing about a deep state conspiracy against him.", ">\n\nI’d be hilarious if he copy pasted one of trumps tweets and ended it with JK I’m not a raving lunatic in a middle of a tantrum.", ">\n\nThat would be some great dark Brandon shit.", ">\n\nI am all for a special counsel being appointed. But a Trump appointee feels like an attempt by Garland to bend over backwards to show just how apolitical he is. If he wanted to reach across the aisle, he couldn’t find a Bush appointee rather than someone appointed by a man who literally tried to upend the Republic and is known for appointing partisan hacks?", ">\n\nThis is how Garland has been acting since appointed. It’s like he’s so terrified of being perceived as biased against repubs that he instead acts biased against dems. He has truly been a failure at AG.. even more of a letdown than Mueller", ">\n\nWell, Garland is a conservative….. people think that he must be left wing because Obama nominated him for SCOTUS. NOPE! - he’s right wing and Obama was throwing the GOP a bone. The GOP just hated Obama so fucking much they slapped down a nominee that aligned with them.", ">\n\nTrue, Biden should have appointed someone else", ">\n\nOnly took a year and a half to appoint one for Trump. Also what about that DOJ policy about not investigating and prosecuting a sitting president which protected the former guy for, what, six years now?", ">\n\nGarland is not our friend.", ">\n\nWho’s friend, exactly? What does friendship have to do with accountability to rules and laws?\nAre you suggesting the DOJ should be aligned and friendly with one particular party or another and so they don’t have to follow rules and laws we expect others to comply with?", ">\n\nGarland is not a friend to justice.\nWhy has Trump not been indicted yet? What's the confusion?", ">\n\n\nWhy has Trump not been indicted yet?\n\nwhy would you expect him to have been? the investigation isn't over yet", ">\n\nit explains why they weren't indicted in the article", ">\n\nSome anonymous lawyer being quoted by CNN is not a definitive explanation at all. It's hearsay and well-meaning bullshit. But when the DOJ was asked? \"A spokesperson for the Department of Justice declined to comment.\" But if you do believe that anonymous source, do you really think they have executive privilege, as your source says? How TF do \"advisors\" get privilege?", ">\n\nthey worked in the White House", ">\n\nBad enough that everyone bought that crap, \"The president is immune to criminal prosecution and subpoenas.\" But now we're going to extend it to anyone who worked in the White House?! Holy cow you can't possibly believe that's a good idea.", ">\n\nAs. We. Would. Expect. 🤷‍♂️ \nCan't wait until Biden whines, makes excuses, tries to get a special master, claims that they where declassifi...... Oh wait. Dems don't do any of that.", ">\n\nIt doesn’t even matter cause republicans don’t care about mishandling classified document- oh wait…now they do.", ">\n\nAs a Democrat I am pretty pissed off at Biden for this, but I would be willing to bet he didn't know the documents were there. \nThat said, I am a strong believer in people being punished for breaking the law, even if they are on my \"team.\"\nIf he broke the law, punish him. \nJust make sure that that miserable, racist orange thing that yells all the time gets his as well.\nThis is the only way to have nice things.", ">\n\nBiden isn't asking for a special grand master or looking for a favorable court... weird.", ">\n\nLove how it took 2 years to do this for trump, and he ain't even president, 2 days for Biden and he is president. \nTo be clear, I'm not saying there shouldn't be an investigation, I'm saying Garland is showing his true colors pretty strongly with the disparity.\nEdit: I'm muting this thread, not trying to get banned for cussing some fool out again. Have a good night y'all.", ">\n\nThe difference will always be that most democrats are just fine with an investigation. Because they care about good governance instead of personality cults.", ">\n\nYeah, it's like Goofus and Gallant. Except Goofus wins every other election and beats your head in with a bat.", ">\n\nWeird how Garland can move with lightning speed when it’s a cover-your-ass political move. Lightning speed.", ">\n\nFucking ridiculous the kid-gloves treatment that Trump gets.", ">\n\nI feel like Trump is about to get his shit kicked in here by Jack Smith in about a month or so when the indictments start coming", ">\n\nI feel like someone has said this every month for the last 6 years. The point is, Trump is untouchable. His angry mob would never succeed in overthrowing the government, but they would likely affect quarterly profits.", ">\n\nThis right here. Gotta keep the wolves fed or they might bite you. \nDomestic Terrorism discourages commerce. They’re fucking cowards.", ">\n\nHow's that Trump indictment coming?", ">\n\nThis is all I'm concerned about. Biden's situation I'm sure will work itself out, but Trump has most certainly committed crimes well beyond and before simply having classified documents. I'm not even saying Biden hasn't broken the law, and he should be dealt with accordingly, but Trump has been a national security hazard and criminal since long before classified documents were found and obstruction was clearly committed to shield them, and this Biden situation should, in no way, get in the way of that case, which seems long overdue.", ">\n\nWeird. I thought the DOJ didn’t want to investigate presidents.", ">\n\nWeird, I recall the DOJ investigating Trump while he was president. And Clinton.", ">\n\nI'm not confused about it. There's no policy against investigating presidents, which is why the numerous investigations into recent sitting presidents happened and were not against any policy. There is a policy against indicting them, though that's not legally binding in any way, just a stated approach that the Justice dept. has outlined in the past.", ">\n\nThe difference between Republicans and Dems is on display again. \nNo cults, no obstructing. Let the legal system do its thing.", ">\n\nSo... he can move fast??", ">\n\nThis proves that Garland is exquisitely sensitive to (Republican) public opinion, which proves to me that he will never indict Trump." ]

[ "Do a complete investigation, gather the evidence, follow all procedures and the law, seek justice without fear or favor no matter who is involved. Figure this mess out.", ">\n\nFully agree - and I'd actually like the investigation to be concluded swiftly since the ones being investigated will likely be 100% cooperative. It's not like DoJ will have to be dealing with full on liars and criminals which takes forever to find the answers.", ">\n\nI 100% agree that there ought to be a reasonable investigation into this but I do have to wonder if any of this matters at all given that Biden is currently the president and therefore has not only the right to have classified information but also the ability to declassify that information.\nNot trying to make excuses for the oversight (or lack thereof) of classified documents, but it seems to me as though this requires an investigation into how classified documents are handled during and after individuals have been given such status and after said status has lapsed.\nLet's be perfectly honest, if they had taken different actions on the first set of documents, we likely wouldn't even know about this because there was nobody searching for them.\nHad Biden and his lawyers actually been seriously corrupt, they could easily have disposed of them in a fireplace or down a toilet and no one would know the better.\nThe fact that they brought this directly to the attention of the proper authorities is at least proof that they do have respect for the rule of law and are willing to except the consequences, even if it is going to be used to make political hay while the sun shines.\nThat said, this likely has huge implications for executive privilege, especially to the extent that the former president argued he had. I personally do not have a problem with the minister of th Office of the President being able to be held accountable for their actions but only if it is equally applied across the board and not just something that we will have to deal with when presidents from the Democratic party are being scrutinized.", ">\n\n\nhas not only the right to have classified information but also the ability to declassify that information.\n\nHe does. But apparently these docs were from his Vice Presidency under Obama. So, it's a bit uncertain.\nAnd it really undermines at least one of the central charges you could have lodged against Trump, that everyone that is able to access classified documents has a substantive responsibility to make sure they are handled appropriately. The \"oh, well, we had to leave in a hurry and things just got mixed up\" arguments Trump could have made before would have had little merit - especially when you consider previous historic cases where even a single doc mishandled ended up with someone in jail.\nBut now Trump will be able to dilute that charge completely. He's still fucked on obstruction and everything else (hopefully).", ">\n\nClassified != Compartmentalized, Top Secret, etc.", ">\n\nI agree with you, but I was recently informed that sources say some of these classified documents were classified Top Secret.\nIt does appear as though ABC is confirming that sources are saying that some of these were top secret documents.\n\nSources also told ABC News that the original batch of about 10 documents found in November contains classified vice-presidential briefing papers about foreign countries, some of which were marked top secret.\n\nAnd CNN is not even using the journalistic term source, going so far as to assert that some of these documents were top secret.\n\nSome of the classified documents were “top secret,” the highest level. They were found in three or four boxes that also contained unclassified papers that fall under the Presidential Records Act, CNN has reported.\n\nIf we are going to maintain Integrity about the treatment of top secret classified documents, it is important to hold both sides accountable for their retention of documents.\nThank goodness that Biden's lawyers were up front with the FBI and NARA rather than lying about the retention of documents and obstructing an investigation.\nI really hope that Biden doesn't try to use the executive privilege argument to keep himself from investigation, but this is likely going to be a permanent stain on his reputation and definitely opens up the presidential field in the Democratic Party for 2024.", ">\n\nWhy would this be a permanent stain on Biden’s reputation?", ">\n\nBecause it will 100% be used along with whataboutism to suggest that Biden was going after Trump for the same thing that he was caught doing, regardless of the fact that Biden was not responsible for the investigation into Trump's documents has not been outspoken about the retention of documents, subsequent Lies by his lawyers, and obstruction.\nI'm not saying that it is going to be fair, or even rational but it is going to cause a stain and that will be used to pillory him.", ">\n\nSo in essence, this is only going to be a stain in the minds of people who are rather brainless to begin with….gotcha", ">\n\nIts a stain because it's political ammunition for the other side, not because you or I see it for the opportunitistically timed political assault that it seems to be. In modern politics, being on the defensive is the same as losing. Hillary Clinton's email fiasco likely contributed to the 2016 election results even though she wasn't indicted for a crime.\nThe people on the other side of the political spectrum who would consider this whole fiasco a stain on Biden AREN'T brainless, they're heavily propogandized, and they DO vote. This whole thing will be used to justify any or all of Trump's conduct that should be immediately disqualifying. Expect this to be split-screened with all of Trump's legal woes.\nHopefully Trump won't make it to the 2024 Election season as a viable candidate. If Trump does make it, Trump will use this against Biden. If Trump loses out to someone like DeSantis, there will be a concerted effort to crucify Biden with it.", ">\n\nMy favorite part of this:\nNo raging tweets from the president making up executive powers. Accusing people of planting evidence and arguing about a deep state conspiracy against him.", ">\n\nI’d be hilarious if he copy pasted one of trumps tweets and ended it with JK I’m not a raving lunatic in a middle of a tantrum.", ">\n\nThat would be some great dark Brandon shit.", ">\n\nI am all for a special counsel being appointed. But a Trump appointee feels like an attempt by Garland to bend over backwards to show just how apolitical he is. If he wanted to reach across the aisle, he couldn’t find a Bush appointee rather than someone appointed by a man who literally tried to upend the Republic and is known for appointing partisan hacks?", ">\n\nThis is how Garland has been acting since appointed. It’s like he’s so terrified of being perceived as biased against repubs that he instead acts biased against dems. He has truly been a failure at AG.. even more of a letdown than Mueller", ">\n\nWell, Garland is a conservative….. people think that he must be left wing because Obama nominated him for SCOTUS. NOPE! - he’s right wing and Obama was throwing the GOP a bone. The GOP just hated Obama so fucking much they slapped down a nominee that aligned with them.", ">\n\nTrue, Biden should have appointed someone else", ">\n\nOnly took a year and a half to appoint one for Trump. Also what about that DOJ policy about not investigating and prosecuting a sitting president which protected the former guy for, what, six years now?", ">\n\nGarland is not our friend.", ">\n\nWho’s friend, exactly? What does friendship have to do with accountability to rules and laws?\nAre you suggesting the DOJ should be aligned and friendly with one particular party or another and so they don’t have to follow rules and laws we expect others to comply with?", ">\n\nGarland is not a friend to justice.\nWhy has Trump not been indicted yet? What's the confusion?", ">\n\n\nWhy has Trump not been indicted yet?\n\nwhy would you expect him to have been? the investigation isn't over yet", ">\n\nit explains why they weren't indicted in the article", ">\n\nSome anonymous lawyer being quoted by CNN is not a definitive explanation at all. It's hearsay and well-meaning bullshit. But when the DOJ was asked? \"A spokesperson for the Department of Justice declined to comment.\" But if you do believe that anonymous source, do you really think they have executive privilege, as your source says? How TF do \"advisors\" get privilege?", ">\n\nthey worked in the White House", ">\n\nBad enough that everyone bought that crap, \"The president is immune to criminal prosecution and subpoenas.\" But now we're going to extend it to anyone who worked in the White House?! Holy cow you can't possibly believe that's a good idea.", ">\n\nAs. We. Would. Expect. 🤷‍♂️ \nCan't wait until Biden whines, makes excuses, tries to get a special master, claims that they where declassifi...... Oh wait. Dems don't do any of that.", ">\n\nIt doesn’t even matter cause republicans don’t care about mishandling classified document- oh wait…now they do.", ">\n\nAs a Democrat I am pretty pissed off at Biden for this, but I would be willing to bet he didn't know the documents were there. \nThat said, I am a strong believer in people being punished for breaking the law, even if they are on my \"team.\"\nIf he broke the law, punish him. \nJust make sure that that miserable, racist orange thing that yells all the time gets his as well.\nThis is the only way to have nice things.", ">\n\nBiden isn't asking for a special grand master or looking for a favorable court... weird.", ">\n\nLove how it took 2 years to do this for trump, and he ain't even president, 2 days for Biden and he is president. \nTo be clear, I'm not saying there shouldn't be an investigation, I'm saying Garland is showing his true colors pretty strongly with the disparity.\nEdit: I'm muting this thread, not trying to get banned for cussing some fool out again. Have a good night y'all.", ">\n\nThe difference will always be that most democrats are just fine with an investigation. Because they care about good governance instead of personality cults.", ">\n\nYeah, it's like Goofus and Gallant. Except Goofus wins every other election and beats your head in with a bat.", ">\n\nWeird how Garland can move with lightning speed when it’s a cover-your-ass political move. Lightning speed.", ">\n\nFucking ridiculous the kid-gloves treatment that Trump gets.", ">\n\nI feel like Trump is about to get his shit kicked in here by Jack Smith in about a month or so when the indictments start coming", ">\n\nI feel like someone has said this every month for the last 6 years. The point is, Trump is untouchable. His angry mob would never succeed in overthrowing the government, but they would likely affect quarterly profits.", ">\n\nThis right here. Gotta keep the wolves fed or they might bite you. \nDomestic Terrorism discourages commerce. They’re fucking cowards.", ">\n\nHow's that Trump indictment coming?", ">\n\nThis is all I'm concerned about. Biden's situation I'm sure will work itself out, but Trump has most certainly committed crimes well beyond and before simply having classified documents. I'm not even saying Biden hasn't broken the law, and he should be dealt with accordingly, but Trump has been a national security hazard and criminal since long before classified documents were found and obstruction was clearly committed to shield them, and this Biden situation should, in no way, get in the way of that case, which seems long overdue.", ">\n\nWeird. I thought the DOJ didn’t want to investigate presidents.", ">\n\nWeird, I recall the DOJ investigating Trump while he was president. And Clinton.", ">\n\nI'm not confused about it. There's no policy against investigating presidents, which is why the numerous investigations into recent sitting presidents happened and were not against any policy. There is a policy against indicting them, though that's not legally binding in any way, just a stated approach that the Justice dept. has outlined in the past.", ">\n\nThe difference between Republicans and Dems is on display again. \nNo cults, no obstructing. Let the legal system do its thing.", ">\n\nSo... he can move fast??", ">\n\nThis proves that Garland is exquisitely sensitive to (Republican) public opinion, which proves to me that he will never indict Trump.", ">\n\nHe has stated many times that no person is above the law. This proves that he's practices what he preaches." ]

[ "Do a complete investigation, gather the evidence, follow all procedures and the law, seek justice without fear or favor no matter who is involved. Figure this mess out.", ">\n\nFully agree - and I'd actually like the investigation to be concluded swiftly since the ones being investigated will likely be 100% cooperative. It's not like DoJ will have to be dealing with full on liars and criminals which takes forever to find the answers.", ">\n\nI 100% agree that there ought to be a reasonable investigation into this but I do have to wonder if any of this matters at all given that Biden is currently the president and therefore has not only the right to have classified information but also the ability to declassify that information.\nNot trying to make excuses for the oversight (or lack thereof) of classified documents, but it seems to me as though this requires an investigation into how classified documents are handled during and after individuals have been given such status and after said status has lapsed.\nLet's be perfectly honest, if they had taken different actions on the first set of documents, we likely wouldn't even know about this because there was nobody searching for them.\nHad Biden and his lawyers actually been seriously corrupt, they could easily have disposed of them in a fireplace or down a toilet and no one would know the better.\nThe fact that they brought this directly to the attention of the proper authorities is at least proof that they do have respect for the rule of law and are willing to except the consequences, even if it is going to be used to make political hay while the sun shines.\nThat said, this likely has huge implications for executive privilege, especially to the extent that the former president argued he had. I personally do not have a problem with the minister of th Office of the President being able to be held accountable for their actions but only if it is equally applied across the board and not just something that we will have to deal with when presidents from the Democratic party are being scrutinized.", ">\n\n\nhas not only the right to have classified information but also the ability to declassify that information.\n\nHe does. But apparently these docs were from his Vice Presidency under Obama. So, it's a bit uncertain.\nAnd it really undermines at least one of the central charges you could have lodged against Trump, that everyone that is able to access classified documents has a substantive responsibility to make sure they are handled appropriately. The \"oh, well, we had to leave in a hurry and things just got mixed up\" arguments Trump could have made before would have had little merit - especially when you consider previous historic cases where even a single doc mishandled ended up with someone in jail.\nBut now Trump will be able to dilute that charge completely. He's still fucked on obstruction and everything else (hopefully).", ">\n\nClassified != Compartmentalized, Top Secret, etc.", ">\n\nI agree with you, but I was recently informed that sources say some of these classified documents were classified Top Secret.\nIt does appear as though ABC is confirming that sources are saying that some of these were top secret documents.\n\nSources also told ABC News that the original batch of about 10 documents found in November contains classified vice-presidential briefing papers about foreign countries, some of which were marked top secret.\n\nAnd CNN is not even using the journalistic term source, going so far as to assert that some of these documents were top secret.\n\nSome of the classified documents were “top secret,” the highest level. They were found in three or four boxes that also contained unclassified papers that fall under the Presidential Records Act, CNN has reported.\n\nIf we are going to maintain Integrity about the treatment of top secret classified documents, it is important to hold both sides accountable for their retention of documents.\nThank goodness that Biden's lawyers were up front with the FBI and NARA rather than lying about the retention of documents and obstructing an investigation.\nI really hope that Biden doesn't try to use the executive privilege argument to keep himself from investigation, but this is likely going to be a permanent stain on his reputation and definitely opens up the presidential field in the Democratic Party for 2024.", ">\n\nWhy would this be a permanent stain on Biden’s reputation?", ">\n\nBecause it will 100% be used along with whataboutism to suggest that Biden was going after Trump for the same thing that he was caught doing, regardless of the fact that Biden was not responsible for the investigation into Trump's documents has not been outspoken about the retention of documents, subsequent Lies by his lawyers, and obstruction.\nI'm not saying that it is going to be fair, or even rational but it is going to cause a stain and that will be used to pillory him.", ">\n\nSo in essence, this is only going to be a stain in the minds of people who are rather brainless to begin with….gotcha", ">\n\nIts a stain because it's political ammunition for the other side, not because you or I see it for the opportunitistically timed political assault that it seems to be. In modern politics, being on the defensive is the same as losing. Hillary Clinton's email fiasco likely contributed to the 2016 election results even though she wasn't indicted for a crime.\nThe people on the other side of the political spectrum who would consider this whole fiasco a stain on Biden AREN'T brainless, they're heavily propogandized, and they DO vote. This whole thing will be used to justify any or all of Trump's conduct that should be immediately disqualifying. Expect this to be split-screened with all of Trump's legal woes.\nHopefully Trump won't make it to the 2024 Election season as a viable candidate. If Trump does make it, Trump will use this against Biden. If Trump loses out to someone like DeSantis, there will be a concerted effort to crucify Biden with it.", ">\n\nMy favorite part of this:\nNo raging tweets from the president making up executive powers. Accusing people of planting evidence and arguing about a deep state conspiracy against him.", ">\n\nI’d be hilarious if he copy pasted one of trumps tweets and ended it with JK I’m not a raving lunatic in a middle of a tantrum.", ">\n\nThat would be some great dark Brandon shit.", ">\n\nI am all for a special counsel being appointed. But a Trump appointee feels like an attempt by Garland to bend over backwards to show just how apolitical he is. If he wanted to reach across the aisle, he couldn’t find a Bush appointee rather than someone appointed by a man who literally tried to upend the Republic and is known for appointing partisan hacks?", ">\n\nThis is how Garland has been acting since appointed. It’s like he’s so terrified of being perceived as biased against repubs that he instead acts biased against dems. He has truly been a failure at AG.. even more of a letdown than Mueller", ">\n\nWell, Garland is a conservative….. people think that he must be left wing because Obama nominated him for SCOTUS. NOPE! - he’s right wing and Obama was throwing the GOP a bone. The GOP just hated Obama so fucking much they slapped down a nominee that aligned with them.", ">\n\nTrue, Biden should have appointed someone else", ">\n\nOnly took a year and a half to appoint one for Trump. Also what about that DOJ policy about not investigating and prosecuting a sitting president which protected the former guy for, what, six years now?", ">\n\nGarland is not our friend.", ">\n\nWho’s friend, exactly? What does friendship have to do with accountability to rules and laws?\nAre you suggesting the DOJ should be aligned and friendly with one particular party or another and so they don’t have to follow rules and laws we expect others to comply with?", ">\n\nGarland is not a friend to justice.\nWhy has Trump not been indicted yet? What's the confusion?", ">\n\n\nWhy has Trump not been indicted yet?\n\nwhy would you expect him to have been? the investigation isn't over yet", ">\n\nit explains why they weren't indicted in the article", ">\n\nSome anonymous lawyer being quoted by CNN is not a definitive explanation at all. It's hearsay and well-meaning bullshit. But when the DOJ was asked? \"A spokesperson for the Department of Justice declined to comment.\" But if you do believe that anonymous source, do you really think they have executive privilege, as your source says? How TF do \"advisors\" get privilege?", ">\n\nthey worked in the White House", ">\n\nBad enough that everyone bought that crap, \"The president is immune to criminal prosecution and subpoenas.\" But now we're going to extend it to anyone who worked in the White House?! Holy cow you can't possibly believe that's a good idea.", ">\n\nAs. We. Would. Expect. 🤷‍♂️ \nCan't wait until Biden whines, makes excuses, tries to get a special master, claims that they where declassifi...... Oh wait. Dems don't do any of that.", ">\n\nIt doesn’t even matter cause republicans don’t care about mishandling classified document- oh wait…now they do.", ">\n\nAs a Democrat I am pretty pissed off at Biden for this, but I would be willing to bet he didn't know the documents were there. \nThat said, I am a strong believer in people being punished for breaking the law, even if they are on my \"team.\"\nIf he broke the law, punish him. \nJust make sure that that miserable, racist orange thing that yells all the time gets his as well.\nThis is the only way to have nice things.", ">\n\nBiden isn't asking for a special grand master or looking for a favorable court... weird.", ">\n\nLove how it took 2 years to do this for trump, and he ain't even president, 2 days for Biden and he is president. \nTo be clear, I'm not saying there shouldn't be an investigation, I'm saying Garland is showing his true colors pretty strongly with the disparity.\nEdit: I'm muting this thread, not trying to get banned for cussing some fool out again. Have a good night y'all.", ">\n\nThe difference will always be that most democrats are just fine with an investigation. Because they care about good governance instead of personality cults.", ">\n\nYeah, it's like Goofus and Gallant. Except Goofus wins every other election and beats your head in with a bat.", ">\n\nWeird how Garland can move with lightning speed when it’s a cover-your-ass political move. Lightning speed.", ">\n\nFucking ridiculous the kid-gloves treatment that Trump gets.", ">\n\nI feel like Trump is about to get his shit kicked in here by Jack Smith in about a month or so when the indictments start coming", ">\n\nI feel like someone has said this every month for the last 6 years. The point is, Trump is untouchable. His angry mob would never succeed in overthrowing the government, but they would likely affect quarterly profits.", ">\n\nThis right here. Gotta keep the wolves fed or they might bite you. \nDomestic Terrorism discourages commerce. They’re fucking cowards.", ">\n\nHow's that Trump indictment coming?", ">\n\nThis is all I'm concerned about. Biden's situation I'm sure will work itself out, but Trump has most certainly committed crimes well beyond and before simply having classified documents. I'm not even saying Biden hasn't broken the law, and he should be dealt with accordingly, but Trump has been a national security hazard and criminal since long before classified documents were found and obstruction was clearly committed to shield them, and this Biden situation should, in no way, get in the way of that case, which seems long overdue.", ">\n\nWeird. I thought the DOJ didn’t want to investigate presidents.", ">\n\nWeird, I recall the DOJ investigating Trump while he was president. And Clinton.", ">\n\nI'm not confused about it. There's no policy against investigating presidents, which is why the numerous investigations into recent sitting presidents happened and were not against any policy. There is a policy against indicting them, though that's not legally binding in any way, just a stated approach that the Justice dept. has outlined in the past.", ">\n\nThe difference between Republicans and Dems is on display again. \nNo cults, no obstructing. Let the legal system do its thing.", ">\n\nSo... he can move fast??", ">\n\nThis proves that Garland is exquisitely sensitive to (Republican) public opinion, which proves to me that he will never indict Trump.", ">\n\nHe has stated many times that no person is above the law. This proves that he's practices what he preaches.", ">\n\nDoes it though? He holds D’s to the rule of law, but drags his feet with R’s.. all to try to seem impartial. He is not holding everyone to the same standard." ]

[ "Do a complete investigation, gather the evidence, follow all procedures and the law, seek justice without fear or favor no matter who is involved. Figure this mess out.", ">\n\nFully agree - and I'd actually like the investigation to be concluded swiftly since the ones being investigated will likely be 100% cooperative. It's not like DoJ will have to be dealing with full on liars and criminals which takes forever to find the answers.", ">\n\nI 100% agree that there ought to be a reasonable investigation into this but I do have to wonder if any of this matters at all given that Biden is currently the president and therefore has not only the right to have classified information but also the ability to declassify that information.\nNot trying to make excuses for the oversight (or lack thereof) of classified documents, but it seems to me as though this requires an investigation into how classified documents are handled during and after individuals have been given such status and after said status has lapsed.\nLet's be perfectly honest, if they had taken different actions on the first set of documents, we likely wouldn't even know about this because there was nobody searching for them.\nHad Biden and his lawyers actually been seriously corrupt, they could easily have disposed of them in a fireplace or down a toilet and no one would know the better.\nThe fact that they brought this directly to the attention of the proper authorities is at least proof that they do have respect for the rule of law and are willing to except the consequences, even if it is going to be used to make political hay while the sun shines.\nThat said, this likely has huge implications for executive privilege, especially to the extent that the former president argued he had. I personally do not have a problem with the minister of th Office of the President being able to be held accountable for their actions but only if it is equally applied across the board and not just something that we will have to deal with when presidents from the Democratic party are being scrutinized.", ">\n\n\nhas not only the right to have classified information but also the ability to declassify that information.\n\nHe does. But apparently these docs were from his Vice Presidency under Obama. So, it's a bit uncertain.\nAnd it really undermines at least one of the central charges you could have lodged against Trump, that everyone that is able to access classified documents has a substantive responsibility to make sure they are handled appropriately. The \"oh, well, we had to leave in a hurry and things just got mixed up\" arguments Trump could have made before would have had little merit - especially when you consider previous historic cases where even a single doc mishandled ended up with someone in jail.\nBut now Trump will be able to dilute that charge completely. He's still fucked on obstruction and everything else (hopefully).", ">\n\nClassified != Compartmentalized, Top Secret, etc.", ">\n\nI agree with you, but I was recently informed that sources say some of these classified documents were classified Top Secret.\nIt does appear as though ABC is confirming that sources are saying that some of these were top secret documents.\n\nSources also told ABC News that the original batch of about 10 documents found in November contains classified vice-presidential briefing papers about foreign countries, some of which were marked top secret.\n\nAnd CNN is not even using the journalistic term source, going so far as to assert that some of these documents were top secret.\n\nSome of the classified documents were “top secret,” the highest level. They were found in three or four boxes that also contained unclassified papers that fall under the Presidential Records Act, CNN has reported.\n\nIf we are going to maintain Integrity about the treatment of top secret classified documents, it is important to hold both sides accountable for their retention of documents.\nThank goodness that Biden's lawyers were up front with the FBI and NARA rather than lying about the retention of documents and obstructing an investigation.\nI really hope that Biden doesn't try to use the executive privilege argument to keep himself from investigation, but this is likely going to be a permanent stain on his reputation and definitely opens up the presidential field in the Democratic Party for 2024.", ">\n\nWhy would this be a permanent stain on Biden’s reputation?", ">\n\nBecause it will 100% be used along with whataboutism to suggest that Biden was going after Trump for the same thing that he was caught doing, regardless of the fact that Biden was not responsible for the investigation into Trump's documents has not been outspoken about the retention of documents, subsequent Lies by his lawyers, and obstruction.\nI'm not saying that it is going to be fair, or even rational but it is going to cause a stain and that will be used to pillory him.", ">\n\nSo in essence, this is only going to be a stain in the minds of people who are rather brainless to begin with….gotcha", ">\n\nIts a stain because it's political ammunition for the other side, not because you or I see it for the opportunitistically timed political assault that it seems to be. In modern politics, being on the defensive is the same as losing. Hillary Clinton's email fiasco likely contributed to the 2016 election results even though she wasn't indicted for a crime.\nThe people on the other side of the political spectrum who would consider this whole fiasco a stain on Biden AREN'T brainless, they're heavily propogandized, and they DO vote. This whole thing will be used to justify any or all of Trump's conduct that should be immediately disqualifying. Expect this to be split-screened with all of Trump's legal woes.\nHopefully Trump won't make it to the 2024 Election season as a viable candidate. If Trump does make it, Trump will use this against Biden. If Trump loses out to someone like DeSantis, there will be a concerted effort to crucify Biden with it.", ">\n\nMy favorite part of this:\nNo raging tweets from the president making up executive powers. Accusing people of planting evidence and arguing about a deep state conspiracy against him.", ">\n\nI’d be hilarious if he copy pasted one of trumps tweets and ended it with JK I’m not a raving lunatic in a middle of a tantrum.", ">\n\nThat would be some great dark Brandon shit.", ">\n\nI am all for a special counsel being appointed. But a Trump appointee feels like an attempt by Garland to bend over backwards to show just how apolitical he is. If he wanted to reach across the aisle, he couldn’t find a Bush appointee rather than someone appointed by a man who literally tried to upend the Republic and is known for appointing partisan hacks?", ">\n\nThis is how Garland has been acting since appointed. It’s like he’s so terrified of being perceived as biased against repubs that he instead acts biased against dems. He has truly been a failure at AG.. even more of a letdown than Mueller", ">\n\nWell, Garland is a conservative….. people think that he must be left wing because Obama nominated him for SCOTUS. NOPE! - he’s right wing and Obama was throwing the GOP a bone. The GOP just hated Obama so fucking much they slapped down a nominee that aligned with them.", ">\n\nTrue, Biden should have appointed someone else", ">\n\nOnly took a year and a half to appoint one for Trump. Also what about that DOJ policy about not investigating and prosecuting a sitting president which protected the former guy for, what, six years now?", ">\n\nGarland is not our friend.", ">\n\nWho’s friend, exactly? What does friendship have to do with accountability to rules and laws?\nAre you suggesting the DOJ should be aligned and friendly with one particular party or another and so they don’t have to follow rules and laws we expect others to comply with?", ">\n\nGarland is not a friend to justice.\nWhy has Trump not been indicted yet? What's the confusion?", ">\n\n\nWhy has Trump not been indicted yet?\n\nwhy would you expect him to have been? the investigation isn't over yet", ">\n\nit explains why they weren't indicted in the article", ">\n\nSome anonymous lawyer being quoted by CNN is not a definitive explanation at all. It's hearsay and well-meaning bullshit. But when the DOJ was asked? \"A spokesperson for the Department of Justice declined to comment.\" But if you do believe that anonymous source, do you really think they have executive privilege, as your source says? How TF do \"advisors\" get privilege?", ">\n\nthey worked in the White House", ">\n\nBad enough that everyone bought that crap, \"The president is immune to criminal prosecution and subpoenas.\" But now we're going to extend it to anyone who worked in the White House?! Holy cow you can't possibly believe that's a good idea.", ">\n\nAs. We. Would. Expect. 🤷‍♂️ \nCan't wait until Biden whines, makes excuses, tries to get a special master, claims that they where declassifi...... Oh wait. Dems don't do any of that.", ">\n\nIt doesn’t even matter cause republicans don’t care about mishandling classified document- oh wait…now they do.", ">\n\nAs a Democrat I am pretty pissed off at Biden for this, but I would be willing to bet he didn't know the documents were there. \nThat said, I am a strong believer in people being punished for breaking the law, even if they are on my \"team.\"\nIf he broke the law, punish him. \nJust make sure that that miserable, racist orange thing that yells all the time gets his as well.\nThis is the only way to have nice things.", ">\n\nBiden isn't asking for a special grand master or looking for a favorable court... weird.", ">\n\nLove how it took 2 years to do this for trump, and he ain't even president, 2 days for Biden and he is president. \nTo be clear, I'm not saying there shouldn't be an investigation, I'm saying Garland is showing his true colors pretty strongly with the disparity.\nEdit: I'm muting this thread, not trying to get banned for cussing some fool out again. Have a good night y'all.", ">\n\nThe difference will always be that most democrats are just fine with an investigation. Because they care about good governance instead of personality cults.", ">\n\nYeah, it's like Goofus and Gallant. Except Goofus wins every other election and beats your head in with a bat.", ">\n\nWeird how Garland can move with lightning speed when it’s a cover-your-ass political move. Lightning speed.", ">\n\nFucking ridiculous the kid-gloves treatment that Trump gets.", ">\n\nI feel like Trump is about to get his shit kicked in here by Jack Smith in about a month or so when the indictments start coming", ">\n\nI feel like someone has said this every month for the last 6 years. The point is, Trump is untouchable. His angry mob would never succeed in overthrowing the government, but they would likely affect quarterly profits.", ">\n\nThis right here. Gotta keep the wolves fed or they might bite you. \nDomestic Terrorism discourages commerce. They’re fucking cowards.", ">\n\nHow's that Trump indictment coming?", ">\n\nThis is all I'm concerned about. Biden's situation I'm sure will work itself out, but Trump has most certainly committed crimes well beyond and before simply having classified documents. I'm not even saying Biden hasn't broken the law, and he should be dealt with accordingly, but Trump has been a national security hazard and criminal since long before classified documents were found and obstruction was clearly committed to shield them, and this Biden situation should, in no way, get in the way of that case, which seems long overdue.", ">\n\nWeird. I thought the DOJ didn’t want to investigate presidents.", ">\n\nWeird, I recall the DOJ investigating Trump while he was president. And Clinton.", ">\n\nI'm not confused about it. There's no policy against investigating presidents, which is why the numerous investigations into recent sitting presidents happened and were not against any policy. There is a policy against indicting them, though that's not legally binding in any way, just a stated approach that the Justice dept. has outlined in the past.", ">\n\nThe difference between Republicans and Dems is on display again. \nNo cults, no obstructing. Let the legal system do its thing.", ">\n\nSo... he can move fast??", ">\n\nThis proves that Garland is exquisitely sensitive to (Republican) public opinion, which proves to me that he will never indict Trump.", ">\n\nHe has stated many times that no person is above the law. This proves that he's practices what he preaches.", ">\n\nDoes it though? He holds D’s to the rule of law, but drags his feet with R’s.. all to try to seem impartial. He is not holding everyone to the same standard.", ">\n\nthis is a good move despite what wackos in this sub will say. the alternative would be jim jordan and the house intelligence committee running crazy conspiracy theories over this investigation. \nwith this special counsel it will at least be an actual legitimate investigation that will in all likelihood tamper the political effects for biden, as well as create a more legitimate nonpartisan line between this and the trump situation. it won't matter for republicans anyway, but the appearance of impropriety is good!\nobviously there's some hiccup in whatever processes for classified documents there are if they can be mixed in with other documents, put in places they aren't supposed to be, forgotten about, etc. and perhaps that can come to light as a result of both of these investigations and those processes can be revised to address these issues, whether intentionally mishandled or mishandled due to ignorance/an accident." ]

[ "Do a complete investigation, gather the evidence, follow all procedures and the law, seek justice without fear or favor no matter who is involved. Figure this mess out.", ">\n\nFully agree - and I'd actually like the investigation to be concluded swiftly since the ones being investigated will likely be 100% cooperative. It's not like DoJ will have to be dealing with full on liars and criminals which takes forever to find the answers.", ">\n\nI 100% agree that there ought to be a reasonable investigation into this but I do have to wonder if any of this matters at all given that Biden is currently the president and therefore has not only the right to have classified information but also the ability to declassify that information.\nNot trying to make excuses for the oversight (or lack thereof) of classified documents, but it seems to me as though this requires an investigation into how classified documents are handled during and after individuals have been given such status and after said status has lapsed.\nLet's be perfectly honest, if they had taken different actions on the first set of documents, we likely wouldn't even know about this because there was nobody searching for them.\nHad Biden and his lawyers actually been seriously corrupt, they could easily have disposed of them in a fireplace or down a toilet and no one would know the better.\nThe fact that they brought this directly to the attention of the proper authorities is at least proof that they do have respect for the rule of law and are willing to except the consequences, even if it is going to be used to make political hay while the sun shines.\nThat said, this likely has huge implications for executive privilege, especially to the extent that the former president argued he had. I personally do not have a problem with the minister of th Office of the President being able to be held accountable for their actions but only if it is equally applied across the board and not just something that we will have to deal with when presidents from the Democratic party are being scrutinized.", ">\n\n\nhas not only the right to have classified information but also the ability to declassify that information.\n\nHe does. But apparently these docs were from his Vice Presidency under Obama. So, it's a bit uncertain.\nAnd it really undermines at least one of the central charges you could have lodged against Trump, that everyone that is able to access classified documents has a substantive responsibility to make sure they are handled appropriately. The \"oh, well, we had to leave in a hurry and things just got mixed up\" arguments Trump could have made before would have had little merit - especially when you consider previous historic cases where even a single doc mishandled ended up with someone in jail.\nBut now Trump will be able to dilute that charge completely. He's still fucked on obstruction and everything else (hopefully).", ">\n\nClassified != Compartmentalized, Top Secret, etc.", ">\n\nI agree with you, but I was recently informed that sources say some of these classified documents were classified Top Secret.\nIt does appear as though ABC is confirming that sources are saying that some of these were top secret documents.\n\nSources also told ABC News that the original batch of about 10 documents found in November contains classified vice-presidential briefing papers about foreign countries, some of which were marked top secret.\n\nAnd CNN is not even using the journalistic term source, going so far as to assert that some of these documents were top secret.\n\nSome of the classified documents were “top secret,” the highest level. They were found in three or four boxes that also contained unclassified papers that fall under the Presidential Records Act, CNN has reported.\n\nIf we are going to maintain Integrity about the treatment of top secret classified documents, it is important to hold both sides accountable for their retention of documents.\nThank goodness that Biden's lawyers were up front with the FBI and NARA rather than lying about the retention of documents and obstructing an investigation.\nI really hope that Biden doesn't try to use the executive privilege argument to keep himself from investigation, but this is likely going to be a permanent stain on his reputation and definitely opens up the presidential field in the Democratic Party for 2024.", ">\n\nWhy would this be a permanent stain on Biden’s reputation?", ">\n\nBecause it will 100% be used along with whataboutism to suggest that Biden was going after Trump for the same thing that he was caught doing, regardless of the fact that Biden was not responsible for the investigation into Trump's documents has not been outspoken about the retention of documents, subsequent Lies by his lawyers, and obstruction.\nI'm not saying that it is going to be fair, or even rational but it is going to cause a stain and that will be used to pillory him.", ">\n\nSo in essence, this is only going to be a stain in the minds of people who are rather brainless to begin with….gotcha", ">\n\nIts a stain because it's political ammunition for the other side, not because you or I see it for the opportunitistically timed political assault that it seems to be. In modern politics, being on the defensive is the same as losing. Hillary Clinton's email fiasco likely contributed to the 2016 election results even though she wasn't indicted for a crime.\nThe people on the other side of the political spectrum who would consider this whole fiasco a stain on Biden AREN'T brainless, they're heavily propogandized, and they DO vote. This whole thing will be used to justify any or all of Trump's conduct that should be immediately disqualifying. Expect this to be split-screened with all of Trump's legal woes.\nHopefully Trump won't make it to the 2024 Election season as a viable candidate. If Trump does make it, Trump will use this against Biden. If Trump loses out to someone like DeSantis, there will be a concerted effort to crucify Biden with it.", ">\n\nMy favorite part of this:\nNo raging tweets from the president making up executive powers. Accusing people of planting evidence and arguing about a deep state conspiracy against him.", ">\n\nI’d be hilarious if he copy pasted one of trumps tweets and ended it with JK I’m not a raving lunatic in a middle of a tantrum.", ">\n\nThat would be some great dark Brandon shit.", ">\n\nI am all for a special counsel being appointed. But a Trump appointee feels like an attempt by Garland to bend over backwards to show just how apolitical he is. If he wanted to reach across the aisle, he couldn’t find a Bush appointee rather than someone appointed by a man who literally tried to upend the Republic and is known for appointing partisan hacks?", ">\n\nThis is how Garland has been acting since appointed. It’s like he’s so terrified of being perceived as biased against repubs that he instead acts biased against dems. He has truly been a failure at AG.. even more of a letdown than Mueller", ">\n\nWell, Garland is a conservative….. people think that he must be left wing because Obama nominated him for SCOTUS. NOPE! - he’s right wing and Obama was throwing the GOP a bone. The GOP just hated Obama so fucking much they slapped down a nominee that aligned with them.", ">\n\nTrue, Biden should have appointed someone else", ">\n\nOnly took a year and a half to appoint one for Trump. Also what about that DOJ policy about not investigating and prosecuting a sitting president which protected the former guy for, what, six years now?", ">\n\nGarland is not our friend.", ">\n\nWho’s friend, exactly? What does friendship have to do with accountability to rules and laws?\nAre you suggesting the DOJ should be aligned and friendly with one particular party or another and so they don’t have to follow rules and laws we expect others to comply with?", ">\n\nGarland is not a friend to justice.\nWhy has Trump not been indicted yet? What's the confusion?", ">\n\n\nWhy has Trump not been indicted yet?\n\nwhy would you expect him to have been? the investigation isn't over yet", ">\n\nit explains why they weren't indicted in the article", ">\n\nSome anonymous lawyer being quoted by CNN is not a definitive explanation at all. It's hearsay and well-meaning bullshit. But when the DOJ was asked? \"A spokesperson for the Department of Justice declined to comment.\" But if you do believe that anonymous source, do you really think they have executive privilege, as your source says? How TF do \"advisors\" get privilege?", ">\n\nthey worked in the White House", ">\n\nBad enough that everyone bought that crap, \"The president is immune to criminal prosecution and subpoenas.\" But now we're going to extend it to anyone who worked in the White House?! Holy cow you can't possibly believe that's a good idea.", ">\n\nAs. We. Would. Expect. 🤷‍♂️ \nCan't wait until Biden whines, makes excuses, tries to get a special master, claims that they where declassifi...... Oh wait. Dems don't do any of that.", ">\n\nIt doesn’t even matter cause republicans don’t care about mishandling classified document- oh wait…now they do.", ">\n\nAs a Democrat I am pretty pissed off at Biden for this, but I would be willing to bet he didn't know the documents were there. \nThat said, I am a strong believer in people being punished for breaking the law, even if they are on my \"team.\"\nIf he broke the law, punish him. \nJust make sure that that miserable, racist orange thing that yells all the time gets his as well.\nThis is the only way to have nice things.", ">\n\nBiden isn't asking for a special grand master or looking for a favorable court... weird.", ">\n\nLove how it took 2 years to do this for trump, and he ain't even president, 2 days for Biden and he is president. \nTo be clear, I'm not saying there shouldn't be an investigation, I'm saying Garland is showing his true colors pretty strongly with the disparity.\nEdit: I'm muting this thread, not trying to get banned for cussing some fool out again. Have a good night y'all.", ">\n\nThe difference will always be that most democrats are just fine with an investigation. Because they care about good governance instead of personality cults.", ">\n\nYeah, it's like Goofus and Gallant. Except Goofus wins every other election and beats your head in with a bat.", ">\n\nWeird how Garland can move with lightning speed when it’s a cover-your-ass political move. Lightning speed.", ">\n\nFucking ridiculous the kid-gloves treatment that Trump gets.", ">\n\nI feel like Trump is about to get his shit kicked in here by Jack Smith in about a month or so when the indictments start coming", ">\n\nI feel like someone has said this every month for the last 6 years. The point is, Trump is untouchable. His angry mob would never succeed in overthrowing the government, but they would likely affect quarterly profits.", ">\n\nThis right here. Gotta keep the wolves fed or they might bite you. \nDomestic Terrorism discourages commerce. They’re fucking cowards.", ">\n\nHow's that Trump indictment coming?", ">\n\nThis is all I'm concerned about. Biden's situation I'm sure will work itself out, but Trump has most certainly committed crimes well beyond and before simply having classified documents. I'm not even saying Biden hasn't broken the law, and he should be dealt with accordingly, but Trump has been a national security hazard and criminal since long before classified documents were found and obstruction was clearly committed to shield them, and this Biden situation should, in no way, get in the way of that case, which seems long overdue.", ">\n\nWeird. I thought the DOJ didn’t want to investigate presidents.", ">\n\nWeird, I recall the DOJ investigating Trump while he was president. And Clinton.", ">\n\nI'm not confused about it. There's no policy against investigating presidents, which is why the numerous investigations into recent sitting presidents happened and were not against any policy. There is a policy against indicting them, though that's not legally binding in any way, just a stated approach that the Justice dept. has outlined in the past.", ">\n\nThe difference between Republicans and Dems is on display again. \nNo cults, no obstructing. Let the legal system do its thing.", ">\n\nSo... he can move fast??", ">\n\nThis proves that Garland is exquisitely sensitive to (Republican) public opinion, which proves to me that he will never indict Trump.", ">\n\nHe has stated many times that no person is above the law. This proves that he's practices what he preaches.", ">\n\nDoes it though? He holds D’s to the rule of law, but drags his feet with R’s.. all to try to seem impartial. He is not holding everyone to the same standard.", ">\n\nthis is a good move despite what wackos in this sub will say. the alternative would be jim jordan and the house intelligence committee running crazy conspiracy theories over this investigation. \nwith this special counsel it will at least be an actual legitimate investigation that will in all likelihood tamper the political effects for biden, as well as create a more legitimate nonpartisan line between this and the trump situation. it won't matter for republicans anyway, but the appearance of impropriety is good!\nobviously there's some hiccup in whatever processes for classified documents there are if they can be mixed in with other documents, put in places they aren't supposed to be, forgotten about, etc. and perhaps that can come to light as a result of both of these investigations and those processes can be revised to address these issues, whether intentionally mishandled or mishandled due to ignorance/an accident.", ">\n\n\nthe alternative would be jim jordan and the house intelligence committee running crazy conspiracy theories over this investigation. \n\ni don't think is an \"either or\" kind of situation. you'll still get jim's hot take of the day once they set up the committee." ]

[ "Do a complete investigation, gather the evidence, follow all procedures and the law, seek justice without fear or favor no matter who is involved. Figure this mess out.", ">\n\nFully agree - and I'd actually like the investigation to be concluded swiftly since the ones being investigated will likely be 100% cooperative. It's not like DoJ will have to be dealing with full on liars and criminals which takes forever to find the answers.", ">\n\nI 100% agree that there ought to be a reasonable investigation into this but I do have to wonder if any of this matters at all given that Biden is currently the president and therefore has not only the right to have classified information but also the ability to declassify that information.\nNot trying to make excuses for the oversight (or lack thereof) of classified documents, but it seems to me as though this requires an investigation into how classified documents are handled during and after individuals have been given such status and after said status has lapsed.\nLet's be perfectly honest, if they had taken different actions on the first set of documents, we likely wouldn't even know about this because there was nobody searching for them.\nHad Biden and his lawyers actually been seriously corrupt, they could easily have disposed of them in a fireplace or down a toilet and no one would know the better.\nThe fact that they brought this directly to the attention of the proper authorities is at least proof that they do have respect for the rule of law and are willing to except the consequences, even if it is going to be used to make political hay while the sun shines.\nThat said, this likely has huge implications for executive privilege, especially to the extent that the former president argued he had. I personally do not have a problem with the minister of th Office of the President being able to be held accountable for their actions but only if it is equally applied across the board and not just something that we will have to deal with when presidents from the Democratic party are being scrutinized.", ">\n\n\nhas not only the right to have classified information but also the ability to declassify that information.\n\nHe does. But apparently these docs were from his Vice Presidency under Obama. So, it's a bit uncertain.\nAnd it really undermines at least one of the central charges you could have lodged against Trump, that everyone that is able to access classified documents has a substantive responsibility to make sure they are handled appropriately. The \"oh, well, we had to leave in a hurry and things just got mixed up\" arguments Trump could have made before would have had little merit - especially when you consider previous historic cases where even a single doc mishandled ended up with someone in jail.\nBut now Trump will be able to dilute that charge completely. He's still fucked on obstruction and everything else (hopefully).", ">\n\nClassified != Compartmentalized, Top Secret, etc.", ">\n\nI agree with you, but I was recently informed that sources say some of these classified documents were classified Top Secret.\nIt does appear as though ABC is confirming that sources are saying that some of these were top secret documents.\n\nSources also told ABC News that the original batch of about 10 documents found in November contains classified vice-presidential briefing papers about foreign countries, some of which were marked top secret.\n\nAnd CNN is not even using the journalistic term source, going so far as to assert that some of these documents were top secret.\n\nSome of the classified documents were “top secret,” the highest level. They were found in three or four boxes that also contained unclassified papers that fall under the Presidential Records Act, CNN has reported.\n\nIf we are going to maintain Integrity about the treatment of top secret classified documents, it is important to hold both sides accountable for their retention of documents.\nThank goodness that Biden's lawyers were up front with the FBI and NARA rather than lying about the retention of documents and obstructing an investigation.\nI really hope that Biden doesn't try to use the executive privilege argument to keep himself from investigation, but this is likely going to be a permanent stain on his reputation and definitely opens up the presidential field in the Democratic Party for 2024.", ">\n\nWhy would this be a permanent stain on Biden’s reputation?", ">\n\nBecause it will 100% be used along with whataboutism to suggest that Biden was going after Trump for the same thing that he was caught doing, regardless of the fact that Biden was not responsible for the investigation into Trump's documents has not been outspoken about the retention of documents, subsequent Lies by his lawyers, and obstruction.\nI'm not saying that it is going to be fair, or even rational but it is going to cause a stain and that will be used to pillory him.", ">\n\nSo in essence, this is only going to be a stain in the minds of people who are rather brainless to begin with….gotcha", ">\n\nIts a stain because it's political ammunition for the other side, not because you or I see it for the opportunitistically timed political assault that it seems to be. In modern politics, being on the defensive is the same as losing. Hillary Clinton's email fiasco likely contributed to the 2016 election results even though she wasn't indicted for a crime.\nThe people on the other side of the political spectrum who would consider this whole fiasco a stain on Biden AREN'T brainless, they're heavily propogandized, and they DO vote. This whole thing will be used to justify any or all of Trump's conduct that should be immediately disqualifying. Expect this to be split-screened with all of Trump's legal woes.\nHopefully Trump won't make it to the 2024 Election season as a viable candidate. If Trump does make it, Trump will use this against Biden. If Trump loses out to someone like DeSantis, there will be a concerted effort to crucify Biden with it.", ">\n\nMy favorite part of this:\nNo raging tweets from the president making up executive powers. Accusing people of planting evidence and arguing about a deep state conspiracy against him.", ">\n\nI’d be hilarious if he copy pasted one of trumps tweets and ended it with JK I’m not a raving lunatic in a middle of a tantrum.", ">\n\nThat would be some great dark Brandon shit.", ">\n\nI am all for a special counsel being appointed. But a Trump appointee feels like an attempt by Garland to bend over backwards to show just how apolitical he is. If he wanted to reach across the aisle, he couldn’t find a Bush appointee rather than someone appointed by a man who literally tried to upend the Republic and is known for appointing partisan hacks?", ">\n\nThis is how Garland has been acting since appointed. It’s like he’s so terrified of being perceived as biased against repubs that he instead acts biased against dems. He has truly been a failure at AG.. even more of a letdown than Mueller", ">\n\nWell, Garland is a conservative….. people think that he must be left wing because Obama nominated him for SCOTUS. NOPE! - he’s right wing and Obama was throwing the GOP a bone. The GOP just hated Obama so fucking much they slapped down a nominee that aligned with them.", ">\n\nTrue, Biden should have appointed someone else", ">\n\nOnly took a year and a half to appoint one for Trump. Also what about that DOJ policy about not investigating and prosecuting a sitting president which protected the former guy for, what, six years now?", ">\n\nGarland is not our friend.", ">\n\nWho’s friend, exactly? What does friendship have to do with accountability to rules and laws?\nAre you suggesting the DOJ should be aligned and friendly with one particular party or another and so they don’t have to follow rules and laws we expect others to comply with?", ">\n\nGarland is not a friend to justice.\nWhy has Trump not been indicted yet? What's the confusion?", ">\n\n\nWhy has Trump not been indicted yet?\n\nwhy would you expect him to have been? the investigation isn't over yet", ">\n\nit explains why they weren't indicted in the article", ">\n\nSome anonymous lawyer being quoted by CNN is not a definitive explanation at all. It's hearsay and well-meaning bullshit. But when the DOJ was asked? \"A spokesperson for the Department of Justice declined to comment.\" But if you do believe that anonymous source, do you really think they have executive privilege, as your source says? How TF do \"advisors\" get privilege?", ">\n\nthey worked in the White House", ">\n\nBad enough that everyone bought that crap, \"The president is immune to criminal prosecution and subpoenas.\" But now we're going to extend it to anyone who worked in the White House?! Holy cow you can't possibly believe that's a good idea.", ">\n\nAs. We. Would. Expect. 🤷‍♂️ \nCan't wait until Biden whines, makes excuses, tries to get a special master, claims that they where declassifi...... Oh wait. Dems don't do any of that.", ">\n\nIt doesn’t even matter cause republicans don’t care about mishandling classified document- oh wait…now they do.", ">\n\nAs a Democrat I am pretty pissed off at Biden for this, but I would be willing to bet he didn't know the documents were there. \nThat said, I am a strong believer in people being punished for breaking the law, even if they are on my \"team.\"\nIf he broke the law, punish him. \nJust make sure that that miserable, racist orange thing that yells all the time gets his as well.\nThis is the only way to have nice things.", ">\n\nBiden isn't asking for a special grand master or looking for a favorable court... weird.", ">\n\nLove how it took 2 years to do this for trump, and he ain't even president, 2 days for Biden and he is president. \nTo be clear, I'm not saying there shouldn't be an investigation, I'm saying Garland is showing his true colors pretty strongly with the disparity.\nEdit: I'm muting this thread, not trying to get banned for cussing some fool out again. Have a good night y'all.", ">\n\nThe difference will always be that most democrats are just fine with an investigation. Because they care about good governance instead of personality cults.", ">\n\nYeah, it's like Goofus and Gallant. Except Goofus wins every other election and beats your head in with a bat.", ">\n\nWeird how Garland can move with lightning speed when it’s a cover-your-ass political move. Lightning speed.", ">\n\nFucking ridiculous the kid-gloves treatment that Trump gets.", ">\n\nI feel like Trump is about to get his shit kicked in here by Jack Smith in about a month or so when the indictments start coming", ">\n\nI feel like someone has said this every month for the last 6 years. The point is, Trump is untouchable. His angry mob would never succeed in overthrowing the government, but they would likely affect quarterly profits.", ">\n\nThis right here. Gotta keep the wolves fed or they might bite you. \nDomestic Terrorism discourages commerce. They’re fucking cowards.", ">\n\nHow's that Trump indictment coming?", ">\n\nThis is all I'm concerned about. Biden's situation I'm sure will work itself out, but Trump has most certainly committed crimes well beyond and before simply having classified documents. I'm not even saying Biden hasn't broken the law, and he should be dealt with accordingly, but Trump has been a national security hazard and criminal since long before classified documents were found and obstruction was clearly committed to shield them, and this Biden situation should, in no way, get in the way of that case, which seems long overdue.", ">\n\nWeird. I thought the DOJ didn’t want to investigate presidents.", ">\n\nWeird, I recall the DOJ investigating Trump while he was president. And Clinton.", ">\n\nI'm not confused about it. There's no policy against investigating presidents, which is why the numerous investigations into recent sitting presidents happened and were not against any policy. There is a policy against indicting them, though that's not legally binding in any way, just a stated approach that the Justice dept. has outlined in the past.", ">\n\nThe difference between Republicans and Dems is on display again. \nNo cults, no obstructing. Let the legal system do its thing.", ">\n\nSo... he can move fast??", ">\n\nThis proves that Garland is exquisitely sensitive to (Republican) public opinion, which proves to me that he will never indict Trump.", ">\n\nHe has stated many times that no person is above the law. This proves that he's practices what he preaches.", ">\n\nDoes it though? He holds D’s to the rule of law, but drags his feet with R’s.. all to try to seem impartial. He is not holding everyone to the same standard.", ">\n\nthis is a good move despite what wackos in this sub will say. the alternative would be jim jordan and the house intelligence committee running crazy conspiracy theories over this investigation. \nwith this special counsel it will at least be an actual legitimate investigation that will in all likelihood tamper the political effects for biden, as well as create a more legitimate nonpartisan line between this and the trump situation. it won't matter for republicans anyway, but the appearance of impropriety is good!\nobviously there's some hiccup in whatever processes for classified documents there are if they can be mixed in with other documents, put in places they aren't supposed to be, forgotten about, etc. and perhaps that can come to light as a result of both of these investigations and those processes can be revised to address these issues, whether intentionally mishandled or mishandled due to ignorance/an accident.", ">\n\n\nthe alternative would be jim jordan and the house intelligence committee running crazy conspiracy theories over this investigation. \n\ni don't think is an \"either or\" kind of situation. you'll still get jim's hot take of the day once they set up the committee.", ">\n\nsure but as far as document requests and the like it could make it more complicated for the house to go as apeshit as they would otherwise" ]

[ "Do a complete investigation, gather the evidence, follow all procedures and the law, seek justice without fear or favor no matter who is involved. Figure this mess out.", ">\n\nFully agree - and I'd actually like the investigation to be concluded swiftly since the ones being investigated will likely be 100% cooperative. It's not like DoJ will have to be dealing with full on liars and criminals which takes forever to find the answers.", ">\n\nI 100% agree that there ought to be a reasonable investigation into this but I do have to wonder if any of this matters at all given that Biden is currently the president and therefore has not only the right to have classified information but also the ability to declassify that information.\nNot trying to make excuses for the oversight (or lack thereof) of classified documents, but it seems to me as though this requires an investigation into how classified documents are handled during and after individuals have been given such status and after said status has lapsed.\nLet's be perfectly honest, if they had taken different actions on the first set of documents, we likely wouldn't even know about this because there was nobody searching for them.\nHad Biden and his lawyers actually been seriously corrupt, they could easily have disposed of them in a fireplace or down a toilet and no one would know the better.\nThe fact that they brought this directly to the attention of the proper authorities is at least proof that they do have respect for the rule of law and are willing to except the consequences, even if it is going to be used to make political hay while the sun shines.\nThat said, this likely has huge implications for executive privilege, especially to the extent that the former president argued he had. I personally do not have a problem with the minister of th Office of the President being able to be held accountable for their actions but only if it is equally applied across the board and not just something that we will have to deal with when presidents from the Democratic party are being scrutinized.", ">\n\n\nhas not only the right to have classified information but also the ability to declassify that information.\n\nHe does. But apparently these docs were from his Vice Presidency under Obama. So, it's a bit uncertain.\nAnd it really undermines at least one of the central charges you could have lodged against Trump, that everyone that is able to access classified documents has a substantive responsibility to make sure they are handled appropriately. The \"oh, well, we had to leave in a hurry and things just got mixed up\" arguments Trump could have made before would have had little merit - especially when you consider previous historic cases where even a single doc mishandled ended up with someone in jail.\nBut now Trump will be able to dilute that charge completely. He's still fucked on obstruction and everything else (hopefully).", ">\n\nClassified != Compartmentalized, Top Secret, etc.", ">\n\nI agree with you, but I was recently informed that sources say some of these classified documents were classified Top Secret.\nIt does appear as though ABC is confirming that sources are saying that some of these were top secret documents.\n\nSources also told ABC News that the original batch of about 10 documents found in November contains classified vice-presidential briefing papers about foreign countries, some of which were marked top secret.\n\nAnd CNN is not even using the journalistic term source, going so far as to assert that some of these documents were top secret.\n\nSome of the classified documents were “top secret,” the highest level. They were found in three or four boxes that also contained unclassified papers that fall under the Presidential Records Act, CNN has reported.\n\nIf we are going to maintain Integrity about the treatment of top secret classified documents, it is important to hold both sides accountable for their retention of documents.\nThank goodness that Biden's lawyers were up front with the FBI and NARA rather than lying about the retention of documents and obstructing an investigation.\nI really hope that Biden doesn't try to use the executive privilege argument to keep himself from investigation, but this is likely going to be a permanent stain on his reputation and definitely opens up the presidential field in the Democratic Party for 2024.", ">\n\nWhy would this be a permanent stain on Biden’s reputation?", ">\n\nBecause it will 100% be used along with whataboutism to suggest that Biden was going after Trump for the same thing that he was caught doing, regardless of the fact that Biden was not responsible for the investigation into Trump's documents has not been outspoken about the retention of documents, subsequent Lies by his lawyers, and obstruction.\nI'm not saying that it is going to be fair, or even rational but it is going to cause a stain and that will be used to pillory him.", ">\n\nSo in essence, this is only going to be a stain in the minds of people who are rather brainless to begin with….gotcha", ">\n\nIts a stain because it's political ammunition for the other side, not because you or I see it for the opportunitistically timed political assault that it seems to be. In modern politics, being on the defensive is the same as losing. Hillary Clinton's email fiasco likely contributed to the 2016 election results even though she wasn't indicted for a crime.\nThe people on the other side of the political spectrum who would consider this whole fiasco a stain on Biden AREN'T brainless, they're heavily propogandized, and they DO vote. This whole thing will be used to justify any or all of Trump's conduct that should be immediately disqualifying. Expect this to be split-screened with all of Trump's legal woes.\nHopefully Trump won't make it to the 2024 Election season as a viable candidate. If Trump does make it, Trump will use this against Biden. If Trump loses out to someone like DeSantis, there will be a concerted effort to crucify Biden with it.", ">\n\nMy favorite part of this:\nNo raging tweets from the president making up executive powers. Accusing people of planting evidence and arguing about a deep state conspiracy against him.", ">\n\nI’d be hilarious if he copy pasted one of trumps tweets and ended it with JK I’m not a raving lunatic in a middle of a tantrum.", ">\n\nThat would be some great dark Brandon shit.", ">\n\nI am all for a special counsel being appointed. But a Trump appointee feels like an attempt by Garland to bend over backwards to show just how apolitical he is. If he wanted to reach across the aisle, he couldn’t find a Bush appointee rather than someone appointed by a man who literally tried to upend the Republic and is known for appointing partisan hacks?", ">\n\nThis is how Garland has been acting since appointed. It’s like he’s so terrified of being perceived as biased against repubs that he instead acts biased against dems. He has truly been a failure at AG.. even more of a letdown than Mueller", ">\n\nWell, Garland is a conservative….. people think that he must be left wing because Obama nominated him for SCOTUS. NOPE! - he’s right wing and Obama was throwing the GOP a bone. The GOP just hated Obama so fucking much they slapped down a nominee that aligned with them.", ">\n\nTrue, Biden should have appointed someone else", ">\n\nOnly took a year and a half to appoint one for Trump. Also what about that DOJ policy about not investigating and prosecuting a sitting president which protected the former guy for, what, six years now?", ">\n\nGarland is not our friend.", ">\n\nWho’s friend, exactly? What does friendship have to do with accountability to rules and laws?\nAre you suggesting the DOJ should be aligned and friendly with one particular party or another and so they don’t have to follow rules and laws we expect others to comply with?", ">\n\nGarland is not a friend to justice.\nWhy has Trump not been indicted yet? What's the confusion?", ">\n\n\nWhy has Trump not been indicted yet?\n\nwhy would you expect him to have been? the investigation isn't over yet", ">\n\nit explains why they weren't indicted in the article", ">\n\nSome anonymous lawyer being quoted by CNN is not a definitive explanation at all. It's hearsay and well-meaning bullshit. But when the DOJ was asked? \"A spokesperson for the Department of Justice declined to comment.\" But if you do believe that anonymous source, do you really think they have executive privilege, as your source says? How TF do \"advisors\" get privilege?", ">\n\nthey worked in the White House", ">\n\nBad enough that everyone bought that crap, \"The president is immune to criminal prosecution and subpoenas.\" But now we're going to extend it to anyone who worked in the White House?! Holy cow you can't possibly believe that's a good idea.", ">\n\nAs. We. Would. Expect. 🤷‍♂️ \nCan't wait until Biden whines, makes excuses, tries to get a special master, claims that they where declassifi...... Oh wait. Dems don't do any of that.", ">\n\nIt doesn’t even matter cause republicans don’t care about mishandling classified document- oh wait…now they do.", ">\n\nAs a Democrat I am pretty pissed off at Biden for this, but I would be willing to bet he didn't know the documents were there. \nThat said, I am a strong believer in people being punished for breaking the law, even if they are on my \"team.\"\nIf he broke the law, punish him. \nJust make sure that that miserable, racist orange thing that yells all the time gets his as well.\nThis is the only way to have nice things.", ">\n\nBiden isn't asking for a special grand master or looking for a favorable court... weird.", ">\n\nLove how it took 2 years to do this for trump, and he ain't even president, 2 days for Biden and he is president. \nTo be clear, I'm not saying there shouldn't be an investigation, I'm saying Garland is showing his true colors pretty strongly with the disparity.\nEdit: I'm muting this thread, not trying to get banned for cussing some fool out again. Have a good night y'all.", ">\n\nThe difference will always be that most democrats are just fine with an investigation. Because they care about good governance instead of personality cults.", ">\n\nYeah, it's like Goofus and Gallant. Except Goofus wins every other election and beats your head in with a bat.", ">\n\nWeird how Garland can move with lightning speed when it’s a cover-your-ass political move. Lightning speed.", ">\n\nFucking ridiculous the kid-gloves treatment that Trump gets.", ">\n\nI feel like Trump is about to get his shit kicked in here by Jack Smith in about a month or so when the indictments start coming", ">\n\nI feel like someone has said this every month for the last 6 years. The point is, Trump is untouchable. His angry mob would never succeed in overthrowing the government, but they would likely affect quarterly profits.", ">\n\nThis right here. Gotta keep the wolves fed or they might bite you. \nDomestic Terrorism discourages commerce. They’re fucking cowards.", ">\n\nHow's that Trump indictment coming?", ">\n\nThis is all I'm concerned about. Biden's situation I'm sure will work itself out, but Trump has most certainly committed crimes well beyond and before simply having classified documents. I'm not even saying Biden hasn't broken the law, and he should be dealt with accordingly, but Trump has been a national security hazard and criminal since long before classified documents were found and obstruction was clearly committed to shield them, and this Biden situation should, in no way, get in the way of that case, which seems long overdue.", ">\n\nWeird. I thought the DOJ didn’t want to investigate presidents.", ">\n\nWeird, I recall the DOJ investigating Trump while he was president. And Clinton.", ">\n\nI'm not confused about it. There's no policy against investigating presidents, which is why the numerous investigations into recent sitting presidents happened and were not against any policy. There is a policy against indicting them, though that's not legally binding in any way, just a stated approach that the Justice dept. has outlined in the past.", ">\n\nThe difference between Republicans and Dems is on display again. \nNo cults, no obstructing. Let the legal system do its thing.", ">\n\nSo... he can move fast??", ">\n\nThis proves that Garland is exquisitely sensitive to (Republican) public opinion, which proves to me that he will never indict Trump.", ">\n\nHe has stated many times that no person is above the law. This proves that he's practices what he preaches.", ">\n\nDoes it though? He holds D’s to the rule of law, but drags his feet with R’s.. all to try to seem impartial. He is not holding everyone to the same standard.", ">\n\nthis is a good move despite what wackos in this sub will say. the alternative would be jim jordan and the house intelligence committee running crazy conspiracy theories over this investigation. \nwith this special counsel it will at least be an actual legitimate investigation that will in all likelihood tamper the political effects for biden, as well as create a more legitimate nonpartisan line between this and the trump situation. it won't matter for republicans anyway, but the appearance of impropriety is good!\nobviously there's some hiccup in whatever processes for classified documents there are if they can be mixed in with other documents, put in places they aren't supposed to be, forgotten about, etc. and perhaps that can come to light as a result of both of these investigations and those processes can be revised to address these issues, whether intentionally mishandled or mishandled due to ignorance/an accident.", ">\n\n\nthe alternative would be jim jordan and the house intelligence committee running crazy conspiracy theories over this investigation. \n\ni don't think is an \"either or\" kind of situation. you'll still get jim's hot take of the day once they set up the committee.", ">\n\nsure but as far as document requests and the like it could make it more complicated for the house to go as apeshit as they would otherwise", ">\n\nNo it won't. Because they are not grounded in reality. Just watch." ]

[ "Do a complete investigation, gather the evidence, follow all procedures and the law, seek justice without fear or favor no matter who is involved. Figure this mess out.", ">\n\nFully agree - and I'd actually like the investigation to be concluded swiftly since the ones being investigated will likely be 100% cooperative. It's not like DoJ will have to be dealing with full on liars and criminals which takes forever to find the answers.", ">\n\nI 100% agree that there ought to be a reasonable investigation into this but I do have to wonder if any of this matters at all given that Biden is currently the president and therefore has not only the right to have classified information but also the ability to declassify that information.\nNot trying to make excuses for the oversight (or lack thereof) of classified documents, but it seems to me as though this requires an investigation into how classified documents are handled during and after individuals have been given such status and after said status has lapsed.\nLet's be perfectly honest, if they had taken different actions on the first set of documents, we likely wouldn't even know about this because there was nobody searching for them.\nHad Biden and his lawyers actually been seriously corrupt, they could easily have disposed of them in a fireplace or down a toilet and no one would know the better.\nThe fact that they brought this directly to the attention of the proper authorities is at least proof that they do have respect for the rule of law and are willing to except the consequences, even if it is going to be used to make political hay while the sun shines.\nThat said, this likely has huge implications for executive privilege, especially to the extent that the former president argued he had. I personally do not have a problem with the minister of th Office of the President being able to be held accountable for their actions but only if it is equally applied across the board and not just something that we will have to deal with when presidents from the Democratic party are being scrutinized.", ">\n\n\nhas not only the right to have classified information but also the ability to declassify that information.\n\nHe does. But apparently these docs were from his Vice Presidency under Obama. So, it's a bit uncertain.\nAnd it really undermines at least one of the central charges you could have lodged against Trump, that everyone that is able to access classified documents has a substantive responsibility to make sure they are handled appropriately. The \"oh, well, we had to leave in a hurry and things just got mixed up\" arguments Trump could have made before would have had little merit - especially when you consider previous historic cases where even a single doc mishandled ended up with someone in jail.\nBut now Trump will be able to dilute that charge completely. He's still fucked on obstruction and everything else (hopefully).", ">\n\nClassified != Compartmentalized, Top Secret, etc.", ">\n\nI agree with you, but I was recently informed that sources say some of these classified documents were classified Top Secret.\nIt does appear as though ABC is confirming that sources are saying that some of these were top secret documents.\n\nSources also told ABC News that the original batch of about 10 documents found in November contains classified vice-presidential briefing papers about foreign countries, some of which were marked top secret.\n\nAnd CNN is not even using the journalistic term source, going so far as to assert that some of these documents were top secret.\n\nSome of the classified documents were “top secret,” the highest level. They were found in three or four boxes that also contained unclassified papers that fall under the Presidential Records Act, CNN has reported.\n\nIf we are going to maintain Integrity about the treatment of top secret classified documents, it is important to hold both sides accountable for their retention of documents.\nThank goodness that Biden's lawyers were up front with the FBI and NARA rather than lying about the retention of documents and obstructing an investigation.\nI really hope that Biden doesn't try to use the executive privilege argument to keep himself from investigation, but this is likely going to be a permanent stain on his reputation and definitely opens up the presidential field in the Democratic Party for 2024.", ">\n\nWhy would this be a permanent stain on Biden’s reputation?", ">\n\nBecause it will 100% be used along with whataboutism to suggest that Biden was going after Trump for the same thing that he was caught doing, regardless of the fact that Biden was not responsible for the investigation into Trump's documents has not been outspoken about the retention of documents, subsequent Lies by his lawyers, and obstruction.\nI'm not saying that it is going to be fair, or even rational but it is going to cause a stain and that will be used to pillory him.", ">\n\nSo in essence, this is only going to be a stain in the minds of people who are rather brainless to begin with….gotcha", ">\n\nIts a stain because it's political ammunition for the other side, not because you or I see it for the opportunitistically timed political assault that it seems to be. In modern politics, being on the defensive is the same as losing. Hillary Clinton's email fiasco likely contributed to the 2016 election results even though she wasn't indicted for a crime.\nThe people on the other side of the political spectrum who would consider this whole fiasco a stain on Biden AREN'T brainless, they're heavily propogandized, and they DO vote. This whole thing will be used to justify any or all of Trump's conduct that should be immediately disqualifying. Expect this to be split-screened with all of Trump's legal woes.\nHopefully Trump won't make it to the 2024 Election season as a viable candidate. If Trump does make it, Trump will use this against Biden. If Trump loses out to someone like DeSantis, there will be a concerted effort to crucify Biden with it.", ">\n\nMy favorite part of this:\nNo raging tweets from the president making up executive powers. Accusing people of planting evidence and arguing about a deep state conspiracy against him.", ">\n\nI’d be hilarious if he copy pasted one of trumps tweets and ended it with JK I’m not a raving lunatic in a middle of a tantrum.", ">\n\nThat would be some great dark Brandon shit.", ">\n\nI am all for a special counsel being appointed. But a Trump appointee feels like an attempt by Garland to bend over backwards to show just how apolitical he is. If he wanted to reach across the aisle, he couldn’t find a Bush appointee rather than someone appointed by a man who literally tried to upend the Republic and is known for appointing partisan hacks?", ">\n\nThis is how Garland has been acting since appointed. It’s like he’s so terrified of being perceived as biased against repubs that he instead acts biased against dems. He has truly been a failure at AG.. even more of a letdown than Mueller", ">\n\nWell, Garland is a conservative….. people think that he must be left wing because Obama nominated him for SCOTUS. NOPE! - he’s right wing and Obama was throwing the GOP a bone. The GOP just hated Obama so fucking much they slapped down a nominee that aligned with them.", ">\n\nTrue, Biden should have appointed someone else", ">\n\nOnly took a year and a half to appoint one for Trump. Also what about that DOJ policy about not investigating and prosecuting a sitting president which protected the former guy for, what, six years now?", ">\n\nGarland is not our friend.", ">\n\nWho’s friend, exactly? What does friendship have to do with accountability to rules and laws?\nAre you suggesting the DOJ should be aligned and friendly with one particular party or another and so they don’t have to follow rules and laws we expect others to comply with?", ">\n\nGarland is not a friend to justice.\nWhy has Trump not been indicted yet? What's the confusion?", ">\n\n\nWhy has Trump not been indicted yet?\n\nwhy would you expect him to have been? the investigation isn't over yet", ">\n\nit explains why they weren't indicted in the article", ">\n\nSome anonymous lawyer being quoted by CNN is not a definitive explanation at all. It's hearsay and well-meaning bullshit. But when the DOJ was asked? \"A spokesperson for the Department of Justice declined to comment.\" But if you do believe that anonymous source, do you really think they have executive privilege, as your source says? How TF do \"advisors\" get privilege?", ">\n\nthey worked in the White House", ">\n\nBad enough that everyone bought that crap, \"The president is immune to criminal prosecution and subpoenas.\" But now we're going to extend it to anyone who worked in the White House?! Holy cow you can't possibly believe that's a good idea.", ">\n\nAs. We. Would. Expect. 🤷‍♂️ \nCan't wait until Biden whines, makes excuses, tries to get a special master, claims that they where declassifi...... Oh wait. Dems don't do any of that.", ">\n\nIt doesn’t even matter cause republicans don’t care about mishandling classified document- oh wait…now they do.", ">\n\nAs a Democrat I am pretty pissed off at Biden for this, but I would be willing to bet he didn't know the documents were there. \nThat said, I am a strong believer in people being punished for breaking the law, even if they are on my \"team.\"\nIf he broke the law, punish him. \nJust make sure that that miserable, racist orange thing that yells all the time gets his as well.\nThis is the only way to have nice things.", ">\n\nBiden isn't asking for a special grand master or looking for a favorable court... weird.", ">\n\nLove how it took 2 years to do this for trump, and he ain't even president, 2 days for Biden and he is president. \nTo be clear, I'm not saying there shouldn't be an investigation, I'm saying Garland is showing his true colors pretty strongly with the disparity.\nEdit: I'm muting this thread, not trying to get banned for cussing some fool out again. Have a good night y'all.", ">\n\nThe difference will always be that most democrats are just fine with an investigation. Because they care about good governance instead of personality cults.", ">\n\nYeah, it's like Goofus and Gallant. Except Goofus wins every other election and beats your head in with a bat.", ">\n\nWeird how Garland can move with lightning speed when it’s a cover-your-ass political move. Lightning speed.", ">\n\nFucking ridiculous the kid-gloves treatment that Trump gets.", ">\n\nI feel like Trump is about to get his shit kicked in here by Jack Smith in about a month or so when the indictments start coming", ">\n\nI feel like someone has said this every month for the last 6 years. The point is, Trump is untouchable. His angry mob would never succeed in overthrowing the government, but they would likely affect quarterly profits.", ">\n\nThis right here. Gotta keep the wolves fed or they might bite you. \nDomestic Terrorism discourages commerce. They’re fucking cowards.", ">\n\nHow's that Trump indictment coming?", ">\n\nThis is all I'm concerned about. Biden's situation I'm sure will work itself out, but Trump has most certainly committed crimes well beyond and before simply having classified documents. I'm not even saying Biden hasn't broken the law, and he should be dealt with accordingly, but Trump has been a national security hazard and criminal since long before classified documents were found and obstruction was clearly committed to shield them, and this Biden situation should, in no way, get in the way of that case, which seems long overdue.", ">\n\nWeird. I thought the DOJ didn’t want to investigate presidents.", ">\n\nWeird, I recall the DOJ investigating Trump while he was president. And Clinton.", ">\n\nI'm not confused about it. There's no policy against investigating presidents, which is why the numerous investigations into recent sitting presidents happened and were not against any policy. There is a policy against indicting them, though that's not legally binding in any way, just a stated approach that the Justice dept. has outlined in the past.", ">\n\nThe difference between Republicans and Dems is on display again. \nNo cults, no obstructing. Let the legal system do its thing.", ">\n\nSo... he can move fast??", ">\n\nThis proves that Garland is exquisitely sensitive to (Republican) public opinion, which proves to me that he will never indict Trump.", ">\n\nHe has stated many times that no person is above the law. This proves that he's practices what he preaches.", ">\n\nDoes it though? He holds D’s to the rule of law, but drags his feet with R’s.. all to try to seem impartial. He is not holding everyone to the same standard.", ">\n\nthis is a good move despite what wackos in this sub will say. the alternative would be jim jordan and the house intelligence committee running crazy conspiracy theories over this investigation. \nwith this special counsel it will at least be an actual legitimate investigation that will in all likelihood tamper the political effects for biden, as well as create a more legitimate nonpartisan line between this and the trump situation. it won't matter for republicans anyway, but the appearance of impropriety is good!\nobviously there's some hiccup in whatever processes for classified documents there are if they can be mixed in with other documents, put in places they aren't supposed to be, forgotten about, etc. and perhaps that can come to light as a result of both of these investigations and those processes can be revised to address these issues, whether intentionally mishandled or mishandled due to ignorance/an accident.", ">\n\n\nthe alternative would be jim jordan and the house intelligence committee running crazy conspiracy theories over this investigation. \n\ni don't think is an \"either or\" kind of situation. you'll still get jim's hot take of the day once they set up the committee.", ">\n\nsure but as far as document requests and the like it could make it more complicated for the house to go as apeshit as they would otherwise", ">\n\nNo it won't. Because they are not grounded in reality. Just watch.", ">\n\ni mean the law still exists lol" ]

[ "Do a complete investigation, gather the evidence, follow all procedures and the law, seek justice without fear or favor no matter who is involved. Figure this mess out.", ">\n\nFully agree - and I'd actually like the investigation to be concluded swiftly since the ones being investigated will likely be 100% cooperative. It's not like DoJ will have to be dealing with full on liars and criminals which takes forever to find the answers.", ">\n\nI 100% agree that there ought to be a reasonable investigation into this but I do have to wonder if any of this matters at all given that Biden is currently the president and therefore has not only the right to have classified information but also the ability to declassify that information.\nNot trying to make excuses for the oversight (or lack thereof) of classified documents, but it seems to me as though this requires an investigation into how classified documents are handled during and after individuals have been given such status and after said status has lapsed.\nLet's be perfectly honest, if they had taken different actions on the first set of documents, we likely wouldn't even know about this because there was nobody searching for them.\nHad Biden and his lawyers actually been seriously corrupt, they could easily have disposed of them in a fireplace or down a toilet and no one would know the better.\nThe fact that they brought this directly to the attention of the proper authorities is at least proof that they do have respect for the rule of law and are willing to except the consequences, even if it is going to be used to make political hay while the sun shines.\nThat said, this likely has huge implications for executive privilege, especially to the extent that the former president argued he had. I personally do not have a problem with the minister of th Office of the President being able to be held accountable for their actions but only if it is equally applied across the board and not just something that we will have to deal with when presidents from the Democratic party are being scrutinized.", ">\n\n\nhas not only the right to have classified information but also the ability to declassify that information.\n\nHe does. But apparently these docs were from his Vice Presidency under Obama. So, it's a bit uncertain.\nAnd it really undermines at least one of the central charges you could have lodged against Trump, that everyone that is able to access classified documents has a substantive responsibility to make sure they are handled appropriately. The \"oh, well, we had to leave in a hurry and things just got mixed up\" arguments Trump could have made before would have had little merit - especially when you consider previous historic cases where even a single doc mishandled ended up with someone in jail.\nBut now Trump will be able to dilute that charge completely. He's still fucked on obstruction and everything else (hopefully).", ">\n\nClassified != Compartmentalized, Top Secret, etc.", ">\n\nI agree with you, but I was recently informed that sources say some of these classified documents were classified Top Secret.\nIt does appear as though ABC is confirming that sources are saying that some of these were top secret documents.\n\nSources also told ABC News that the original batch of about 10 documents found in November contains classified vice-presidential briefing papers about foreign countries, some of which were marked top secret.\n\nAnd CNN is not even using the journalistic term source, going so far as to assert that some of these documents were top secret.\n\nSome of the classified documents were “top secret,” the highest level. They were found in three or four boxes that also contained unclassified papers that fall under the Presidential Records Act, CNN has reported.\n\nIf we are going to maintain Integrity about the treatment of top secret classified documents, it is important to hold both sides accountable for their retention of documents.\nThank goodness that Biden's lawyers were up front with the FBI and NARA rather than lying about the retention of documents and obstructing an investigation.\nI really hope that Biden doesn't try to use the executive privilege argument to keep himself from investigation, but this is likely going to be a permanent stain on his reputation and definitely opens up the presidential field in the Democratic Party for 2024.", ">\n\nWhy would this be a permanent stain on Biden’s reputation?", ">\n\nBecause it will 100% be used along with whataboutism to suggest that Biden was going after Trump for the same thing that he was caught doing, regardless of the fact that Biden was not responsible for the investigation into Trump's documents has not been outspoken about the retention of documents, subsequent Lies by his lawyers, and obstruction.\nI'm not saying that it is going to be fair, or even rational but it is going to cause a stain and that will be used to pillory him.", ">\n\nSo in essence, this is only going to be a stain in the minds of people who are rather brainless to begin with….gotcha", ">\n\nIts a stain because it's political ammunition for the other side, not because you or I see it for the opportunitistically timed political assault that it seems to be. In modern politics, being on the defensive is the same as losing. Hillary Clinton's email fiasco likely contributed to the 2016 election results even though she wasn't indicted for a crime.\nThe people on the other side of the political spectrum who would consider this whole fiasco a stain on Biden AREN'T brainless, they're heavily propogandized, and they DO vote. This whole thing will be used to justify any or all of Trump's conduct that should be immediately disqualifying. Expect this to be split-screened with all of Trump's legal woes.\nHopefully Trump won't make it to the 2024 Election season as a viable candidate. If Trump does make it, Trump will use this against Biden. If Trump loses out to someone like DeSantis, there will be a concerted effort to crucify Biden with it.", ">\n\nMy favorite part of this:\nNo raging tweets from the president making up executive powers. Accusing people of planting evidence and arguing about a deep state conspiracy against him.", ">\n\nI’d be hilarious if he copy pasted one of trumps tweets and ended it with JK I’m not a raving lunatic in a middle of a tantrum.", ">\n\nThat would be some great dark Brandon shit.", ">\n\nI am all for a special counsel being appointed. But a Trump appointee feels like an attempt by Garland to bend over backwards to show just how apolitical he is. If he wanted to reach across the aisle, he couldn’t find a Bush appointee rather than someone appointed by a man who literally tried to upend the Republic and is known for appointing partisan hacks?", ">\n\nThis is how Garland has been acting since appointed. It’s like he’s so terrified of being perceived as biased against repubs that he instead acts biased against dems. He has truly been a failure at AG.. even more of a letdown than Mueller", ">\n\nWell, Garland is a conservative….. people think that he must be left wing because Obama nominated him for SCOTUS. NOPE! - he’s right wing and Obama was throwing the GOP a bone. The GOP just hated Obama so fucking much they slapped down a nominee that aligned with them.", ">\n\nTrue, Biden should have appointed someone else", ">\n\nOnly took a year and a half to appoint one for Trump. Also what about that DOJ policy about not investigating and prosecuting a sitting president which protected the former guy for, what, six years now?", ">\n\nGarland is not our friend.", ">\n\nWho’s friend, exactly? What does friendship have to do with accountability to rules and laws?\nAre you suggesting the DOJ should be aligned and friendly with one particular party or another and so they don’t have to follow rules and laws we expect others to comply with?", ">\n\nGarland is not a friend to justice.\nWhy has Trump not been indicted yet? What's the confusion?", ">\n\n\nWhy has Trump not been indicted yet?\n\nwhy would you expect him to have been? the investigation isn't over yet", ">\n\nit explains why they weren't indicted in the article", ">\n\nSome anonymous lawyer being quoted by CNN is not a definitive explanation at all. It's hearsay and well-meaning bullshit. But when the DOJ was asked? \"A spokesperson for the Department of Justice declined to comment.\" But if you do believe that anonymous source, do you really think they have executive privilege, as your source says? How TF do \"advisors\" get privilege?", ">\n\nthey worked in the White House", ">\n\nBad enough that everyone bought that crap, \"The president is immune to criminal prosecution and subpoenas.\" But now we're going to extend it to anyone who worked in the White House?! Holy cow you can't possibly believe that's a good idea.", ">\n\nAs. We. Would. Expect. 🤷‍♂️ \nCan't wait until Biden whines, makes excuses, tries to get a special master, claims that they where declassifi...... Oh wait. Dems don't do any of that.", ">\n\nIt doesn’t even matter cause republicans don’t care about mishandling classified document- oh wait…now they do.", ">\n\nAs a Democrat I am pretty pissed off at Biden for this, but I would be willing to bet he didn't know the documents were there. \nThat said, I am a strong believer in people being punished for breaking the law, even if they are on my \"team.\"\nIf he broke the law, punish him. \nJust make sure that that miserable, racist orange thing that yells all the time gets his as well.\nThis is the only way to have nice things.", ">\n\nBiden isn't asking for a special grand master or looking for a favorable court... weird.", ">\n\nLove how it took 2 years to do this for trump, and he ain't even president, 2 days for Biden and he is president. \nTo be clear, I'm not saying there shouldn't be an investigation, I'm saying Garland is showing his true colors pretty strongly with the disparity.\nEdit: I'm muting this thread, not trying to get banned for cussing some fool out again. Have a good night y'all.", ">\n\nThe difference will always be that most democrats are just fine with an investigation. Because they care about good governance instead of personality cults.", ">\n\nYeah, it's like Goofus and Gallant. Except Goofus wins every other election and beats your head in with a bat.", ">\n\nWeird how Garland can move with lightning speed when it’s a cover-your-ass political move. Lightning speed.", ">\n\nFucking ridiculous the kid-gloves treatment that Trump gets.", ">\n\nI feel like Trump is about to get his shit kicked in here by Jack Smith in about a month or so when the indictments start coming", ">\n\nI feel like someone has said this every month for the last 6 years. The point is, Trump is untouchable. His angry mob would never succeed in overthrowing the government, but they would likely affect quarterly profits.", ">\n\nThis right here. Gotta keep the wolves fed or they might bite you. \nDomestic Terrorism discourages commerce. They’re fucking cowards.", ">\n\nHow's that Trump indictment coming?", ">\n\nThis is all I'm concerned about. Biden's situation I'm sure will work itself out, but Trump has most certainly committed crimes well beyond and before simply having classified documents. I'm not even saying Biden hasn't broken the law, and he should be dealt with accordingly, but Trump has been a national security hazard and criminal since long before classified documents were found and obstruction was clearly committed to shield them, and this Biden situation should, in no way, get in the way of that case, which seems long overdue.", ">\n\nWeird. I thought the DOJ didn’t want to investigate presidents.", ">\n\nWeird, I recall the DOJ investigating Trump while he was president. And Clinton.", ">\n\nI'm not confused about it. There's no policy against investigating presidents, which is why the numerous investigations into recent sitting presidents happened and were not against any policy. There is a policy against indicting them, though that's not legally binding in any way, just a stated approach that the Justice dept. has outlined in the past.", ">\n\nThe difference between Republicans and Dems is on display again. \nNo cults, no obstructing. Let the legal system do its thing.", ">\n\nSo... he can move fast??", ">\n\nThis proves that Garland is exquisitely sensitive to (Republican) public opinion, which proves to me that he will never indict Trump.", ">\n\nHe has stated many times that no person is above the law. This proves that he's practices what he preaches.", ">\n\nDoes it though? He holds D’s to the rule of law, but drags his feet with R’s.. all to try to seem impartial. He is not holding everyone to the same standard.", ">\n\nthis is a good move despite what wackos in this sub will say. the alternative would be jim jordan and the house intelligence committee running crazy conspiracy theories over this investigation. \nwith this special counsel it will at least be an actual legitimate investigation that will in all likelihood tamper the political effects for biden, as well as create a more legitimate nonpartisan line between this and the trump situation. it won't matter for republicans anyway, but the appearance of impropriety is good!\nobviously there's some hiccup in whatever processes for classified documents there are if they can be mixed in with other documents, put in places they aren't supposed to be, forgotten about, etc. and perhaps that can come to light as a result of both of these investigations and those processes can be revised to address these issues, whether intentionally mishandled or mishandled due to ignorance/an accident.", ">\n\n\nthe alternative would be jim jordan and the house intelligence committee running crazy conspiracy theories over this investigation. \n\ni don't think is an \"either or\" kind of situation. you'll still get jim's hot take of the day once they set up the committee.", ">\n\nsure but as far as document requests and the like it could make it more complicated for the house to go as apeshit as they would otherwise", ">\n\nNo it won't. Because they are not grounded in reality. Just watch.", ">\n\ni mean the law still exists lol", ">\n\nDoes it, though?" ]

[ "Do a complete investigation, gather the evidence, follow all procedures and the law, seek justice without fear or favor no matter who is involved. Figure this mess out.", ">\n\nFully agree - and I'd actually like the investigation to be concluded swiftly since the ones being investigated will likely be 100% cooperative. It's not like DoJ will have to be dealing with full on liars and criminals which takes forever to find the answers.", ">\n\nI 100% agree that there ought to be a reasonable investigation into this but I do have to wonder if any of this matters at all given that Biden is currently the president and therefore has not only the right to have classified information but also the ability to declassify that information.\nNot trying to make excuses for the oversight (or lack thereof) of classified documents, but it seems to me as though this requires an investigation into how classified documents are handled during and after individuals have been given such status and after said status has lapsed.\nLet's be perfectly honest, if they had taken different actions on the first set of documents, we likely wouldn't even know about this because there was nobody searching for them.\nHad Biden and his lawyers actually been seriously corrupt, they could easily have disposed of them in a fireplace or down a toilet and no one would know the better.\nThe fact that they brought this directly to the attention of the proper authorities is at least proof that they do have respect for the rule of law and are willing to except the consequences, even if it is going to be used to make political hay while the sun shines.\nThat said, this likely has huge implications for executive privilege, especially to the extent that the former president argued he had. I personally do not have a problem with the minister of th Office of the President being able to be held accountable for their actions but only if it is equally applied across the board and not just something that we will have to deal with when presidents from the Democratic party are being scrutinized.", ">\n\n\nhas not only the right to have classified information but also the ability to declassify that information.\n\nHe does. But apparently these docs were from his Vice Presidency under Obama. So, it's a bit uncertain.\nAnd it really undermines at least one of the central charges you could have lodged against Trump, that everyone that is able to access classified documents has a substantive responsibility to make sure they are handled appropriately. The \"oh, well, we had to leave in a hurry and things just got mixed up\" arguments Trump could have made before would have had little merit - especially when you consider previous historic cases where even a single doc mishandled ended up with someone in jail.\nBut now Trump will be able to dilute that charge completely. He's still fucked on obstruction and everything else (hopefully).", ">\n\nClassified != Compartmentalized, Top Secret, etc.", ">\n\nI agree with you, but I was recently informed that sources say some of these classified documents were classified Top Secret.\nIt does appear as though ABC is confirming that sources are saying that some of these were top secret documents.\n\nSources also told ABC News that the original batch of about 10 documents found in November contains classified vice-presidential briefing papers about foreign countries, some of which were marked top secret.\n\nAnd CNN is not even using the journalistic term source, going so far as to assert that some of these documents were top secret.\n\nSome of the classified documents were “top secret,” the highest level. They were found in three or four boxes that also contained unclassified papers that fall under the Presidential Records Act, CNN has reported.\n\nIf we are going to maintain Integrity about the treatment of top secret classified documents, it is important to hold both sides accountable for their retention of documents.\nThank goodness that Biden's lawyers were up front with the FBI and NARA rather than lying about the retention of documents and obstructing an investigation.\nI really hope that Biden doesn't try to use the executive privilege argument to keep himself from investigation, but this is likely going to be a permanent stain on his reputation and definitely opens up the presidential field in the Democratic Party for 2024.", ">\n\nWhy would this be a permanent stain on Biden’s reputation?", ">\n\nBecause it will 100% be used along with whataboutism to suggest that Biden was going after Trump for the same thing that he was caught doing, regardless of the fact that Biden was not responsible for the investigation into Trump's documents has not been outspoken about the retention of documents, subsequent Lies by his lawyers, and obstruction.\nI'm not saying that it is going to be fair, or even rational but it is going to cause a stain and that will be used to pillory him.", ">\n\nSo in essence, this is only going to be a stain in the minds of people who are rather brainless to begin with….gotcha", ">\n\nIts a stain because it's political ammunition for the other side, not because you or I see it for the opportunitistically timed political assault that it seems to be. In modern politics, being on the defensive is the same as losing. Hillary Clinton's email fiasco likely contributed to the 2016 election results even though she wasn't indicted for a crime.\nThe people on the other side of the political spectrum who would consider this whole fiasco a stain on Biden AREN'T brainless, they're heavily propogandized, and they DO vote. This whole thing will be used to justify any or all of Trump's conduct that should be immediately disqualifying. Expect this to be split-screened with all of Trump's legal woes.\nHopefully Trump won't make it to the 2024 Election season as a viable candidate. If Trump does make it, Trump will use this against Biden. If Trump loses out to someone like DeSantis, there will be a concerted effort to crucify Biden with it.", ">\n\nMy favorite part of this:\nNo raging tweets from the president making up executive powers. Accusing people of planting evidence and arguing about a deep state conspiracy against him.", ">\n\nI’d be hilarious if he copy pasted one of trumps tweets and ended it with JK I’m not a raving lunatic in a middle of a tantrum.", ">\n\nThat would be some great dark Brandon shit.", ">\n\nI am all for a special counsel being appointed. But a Trump appointee feels like an attempt by Garland to bend over backwards to show just how apolitical he is. If he wanted to reach across the aisle, he couldn’t find a Bush appointee rather than someone appointed by a man who literally tried to upend the Republic and is known for appointing partisan hacks?", ">\n\nThis is how Garland has been acting since appointed. It’s like he’s so terrified of being perceived as biased against repubs that he instead acts biased against dems. He has truly been a failure at AG.. even more of a letdown than Mueller", ">\n\nWell, Garland is a conservative….. people think that he must be left wing because Obama nominated him for SCOTUS. NOPE! - he’s right wing and Obama was throwing the GOP a bone. The GOP just hated Obama so fucking much they slapped down a nominee that aligned with them.", ">\n\nTrue, Biden should have appointed someone else", ">\n\nOnly took a year and a half to appoint one for Trump. Also what about that DOJ policy about not investigating and prosecuting a sitting president which protected the former guy for, what, six years now?", ">\n\nGarland is not our friend.", ">\n\nWho’s friend, exactly? What does friendship have to do with accountability to rules and laws?\nAre you suggesting the DOJ should be aligned and friendly with one particular party or another and so they don’t have to follow rules and laws we expect others to comply with?", ">\n\nGarland is not a friend to justice.\nWhy has Trump not been indicted yet? What's the confusion?", ">\n\n\nWhy has Trump not been indicted yet?\n\nwhy would you expect him to have been? the investigation isn't over yet", ">\n\nit explains why they weren't indicted in the article", ">\n\nSome anonymous lawyer being quoted by CNN is not a definitive explanation at all. It's hearsay and well-meaning bullshit. But when the DOJ was asked? \"A spokesperson for the Department of Justice declined to comment.\" But if you do believe that anonymous source, do you really think they have executive privilege, as your source says? How TF do \"advisors\" get privilege?", ">\n\nthey worked in the White House", ">\n\nBad enough that everyone bought that crap, \"The president is immune to criminal prosecution and subpoenas.\" But now we're going to extend it to anyone who worked in the White House?! Holy cow you can't possibly believe that's a good idea.", ">\n\nAs. We. Would. Expect. 🤷‍♂️ \nCan't wait until Biden whines, makes excuses, tries to get a special master, claims that they where declassifi...... Oh wait. Dems don't do any of that.", ">\n\nIt doesn’t even matter cause republicans don’t care about mishandling classified document- oh wait…now they do.", ">\n\nAs a Democrat I am pretty pissed off at Biden for this, but I would be willing to bet he didn't know the documents were there. \nThat said, I am a strong believer in people being punished for breaking the law, even if they are on my \"team.\"\nIf he broke the law, punish him. \nJust make sure that that miserable, racist orange thing that yells all the time gets his as well.\nThis is the only way to have nice things.", ">\n\nBiden isn't asking for a special grand master or looking for a favorable court... weird.", ">\n\nLove how it took 2 years to do this for trump, and he ain't even president, 2 days for Biden and he is president. \nTo be clear, I'm not saying there shouldn't be an investigation, I'm saying Garland is showing his true colors pretty strongly with the disparity.\nEdit: I'm muting this thread, not trying to get banned for cussing some fool out again. Have a good night y'all.", ">\n\nThe difference will always be that most democrats are just fine with an investigation. Because they care about good governance instead of personality cults.", ">\n\nYeah, it's like Goofus and Gallant. Except Goofus wins every other election and beats your head in with a bat.", ">\n\nWeird how Garland can move with lightning speed when it’s a cover-your-ass political move. Lightning speed.", ">\n\nFucking ridiculous the kid-gloves treatment that Trump gets.", ">\n\nI feel like Trump is about to get his shit kicked in here by Jack Smith in about a month or so when the indictments start coming", ">\n\nI feel like someone has said this every month for the last 6 years. The point is, Trump is untouchable. His angry mob would never succeed in overthrowing the government, but they would likely affect quarterly profits.", ">\n\nThis right here. Gotta keep the wolves fed or they might bite you. \nDomestic Terrorism discourages commerce. They’re fucking cowards.", ">\n\nHow's that Trump indictment coming?", ">\n\nThis is all I'm concerned about. Biden's situation I'm sure will work itself out, but Trump has most certainly committed crimes well beyond and before simply having classified documents. I'm not even saying Biden hasn't broken the law, and he should be dealt with accordingly, but Trump has been a national security hazard and criminal since long before classified documents were found and obstruction was clearly committed to shield them, and this Biden situation should, in no way, get in the way of that case, which seems long overdue.", ">\n\nWeird. I thought the DOJ didn’t want to investigate presidents.", ">\n\nWeird, I recall the DOJ investigating Trump while he was president. And Clinton.", ">\n\nI'm not confused about it. There's no policy against investigating presidents, which is why the numerous investigations into recent sitting presidents happened and were not against any policy. There is a policy against indicting them, though that's not legally binding in any way, just a stated approach that the Justice dept. has outlined in the past.", ">\n\nThe difference between Republicans and Dems is on display again. \nNo cults, no obstructing. Let the legal system do its thing.", ">\n\nSo... he can move fast??", ">\n\nThis proves that Garland is exquisitely sensitive to (Republican) public opinion, which proves to me that he will never indict Trump.", ">\n\nHe has stated many times that no person is above the law. This proves that he's practices what he preaches.", ">\n\nDoes it though? He holds D’s to the rule of law, but drags his feet with R’s.. all to try to seem impartial. He is not holding everyone to the same standard.", ">\n\nthis is a good move despite what wackos in this sub will say. the alternative would be jim jordan and the house intelligence committee running crazy conspiracy theories over this investigation. \nwith this special counsel it will at least be an actual legitimate investigation that will in all likelihood tamper the political effects for biden, as well as create a more legitimate nonpartisan line between this and the trump situation. it won't matter for republicans anyway, but the appearance of impropriety is good!\nobviously there's some hiccup in whatever processes for classified documents there are if they can be mixed in with other documents, put in places they aren't supposed to be, forgotten about, etc. and perhaps that can come to light as a result of both of these investigations and those processes can be revised to address these issues, whether intentionally mishandled or mishandled due to ignorance/an accident.", ">\n\n\nthe alternative would be jim jordan and the house intelligence committee running crazy conspiracy theories over this investigation. \n\ni don't think is an \"either or\" kind of situation. you'll still get jim's hot take of the day once they set up the committee.", ">\n\nsure but as far as document requests and the like it could make it more complicated for the house to go as apeshit as they would otherwise", ">\n\nNo it won't. Because they are not grounded in reality. Just watch.", ">\n\ni mean the law still exists lol", ">\n\nDoes it, though?", ">\n\nyes\ndo you think jim jordan can just walk over to DOJ and grab a bunch of documents and tell the DOJ to fuck off?" ]

[ "Do a complete investigation, gather the evidence, follow all procedures and the law, seek justice without fear or favor no matter who is involved. Figure this mess out.", ">\n\nFully agree - and I'd actually like the investigation to be concluded swiftly since the ones being investigated will likely be 100% cooperative. It's not like DoJ will have to be dealing with full on liars and criminals which takes forever to find the answers.", ">\n\nI 100% agree that there ought to be a reasonable investigation into this but I do have to wonder if any of this matters at all given that Biden is currently the president and therefore has not only the right to have classified information but also the ability to declassify that information.\nNot trying to make excuses for the oversight (or lack thereof) of classified documents, but it seems to me as though this requires an investigation into how classified documents are handled during and after individuals have been given such status and after said status has lapsed.\nLet's be perfectly honest, if they had taken different actions on the first set of documents, we likely wouldn't even know about this because there was nobody searching for them.\nHad Biden and his lawyers actually been seriously corrupt, they could easily have disposed of them in a fireplace or down a toilet and no one would know the better.\nThe fact that they brought this directly to the attention of the proper authorities is at least proof that they do have respect for the rule of law and are willing to except the consequences, even if it is going to be used to make political hay while the sun shines.\nThat said, this likely has huge implications for executive privilege, especially to the extent that the former president argued he had. I personally do not have a problem with the minister of th Office of the President being able to be held accountable for their actions but only if it is equally applied across the board and not just something that we will have to deal with when presidents from the Democratic party are being scrutinized.", ">\n\n\nhas not only the right to have classified information but also the ability to declassify that information.\n\nHe does. But apparently these docs were from his Vice Presidency under Obama. So, it's a bit uncertain.\nAnd it really undermines at least one of the central charges you could have lodged against Trump, that everyone that is able to access classified documents has a substantive responsibility to make sure they are handled appropriately. The \"oh, well, we had to leave in a hurry and things just got mixed up\" arguments Trump could have made before would have had little merit - especially when you consider previous historic cases where even a single doc mishandled ended up with someone in jail.\nBut now Trump will be able to dilute that charge completely. He's still fucked on obstruction and everything else (hopefully).", ">\n\nClassified != Compartmentalized, Top Secret, etc.", ">\n\nI agree with you, but I was recently informed that sources say some of these classified documents were classified Top Secret.\nIt does appear as though ABC is confirming that sources are saying that some of these were top secret documents.\n\nSources also told ABC News that the original batch of about 10 documents found in November contains classified vice-presidential briefing papers about foreign countries, some of which were marked top secret.\n\nAnd CNN is not even using the journalistic term source, going so far as to assert that some of these documents were top secret.\n\nSome of the classified documents were “top secret,” the highest level. They were found in three or four boxes that also contained unclassified papers that fall under the Presidential Records Act, CNN has reported.\n\nIf we are going to maintain Integrity about the treatment of top secret classified documents, it is important to hold both sides accountable for their retention of documents.\nThank goodness that Biden's lawyers were up front with the FBI and NARA rather than lying about the retention of documents and obstructing an investigation.\nI really hope that Biden doesn't try to use the executive privilege argument to keep himself from investigation, but this is likely going to be a permanent stain on his reputation and definitely opens up the presidential field in the Democratic Party for 2024.", ">\n\nWhy would this be a permanent stain on Biden’s reputation?", ">\n\nBecause it will 100% be used along with whataboutism to suggest that Biden was going after Trump for the same thing that he was caught doing, regardless of the fact that Biden was not responsible for the investigation into Trump's documents has not been outspoken about the retention of documents, subsequent Lies by his lawyers, and obstruction.\nI'm not saying that it is going to be fair, or even rational but it is going to cause a stain and that will be used to pillory him.", ">\n\nSo in essence, this is only going to be a stain in the minds of people who are rather brainless to begin with….gotcha", ">\n\nIts a stain because it's political ammunition for the other side, not because you or I see it for the opportunitistically timed political assault that it seems to be. In modern politics, being on the defensive is the same as losing. Hillary Clinton's email fiasco likely contributed to the 2016 election results even though she wasn't indicted for a crime.\nThe people on the other side of the political spectrum who would consider this whole fiasco a stain on Biden AREN'T brainless, they're heavily propogandized, and they DO vote. This whole thing will be used to justify any or all of Trump's conduct that should be immediately disqualifying. Expect this to be split-screened with all of Trump's legal woes.\nHopefully Trump won't make it to the 2024 Election season as a viable candidate. If Trump does make it, Trump will use this against Biden. If Trump loses out to someone like DeSantis, there will be a concerted effort to crucify Biden with it.", ">\n\nMy favorite part of this:\nNo raging tweets from the president making up executive powers. Accusing people of planting evidence and arguing about a deep state conspiracy against him.", ">\n\nI’d be hilarious if he copy pasted one of trumps tweets and ended it with JK I’m not a raving lunatic in a middle of a tantrum.", ">\n\nThat would be some great dark Brandon shit.", ">\n\nI am all for a special counsel being appointed. But a Trump appointee feels like an attempt by Garland to bend over backwards to show just how apolitical he is. If he wanted to reach across the aisle, he couldn’t find a Bush appointee rather than someone appointed by a man who literally tried to upend the Republic and is known for appointing partisan hacks?", ">\n\nThis is how Garland has been acting since appointed. It’s like he’s so terrified of being perceived as biased against repubs that he instead acts biased against dems. He has truly been a failure at AG.. even more of a letdown than Mueller", ">\n\nWell, Garland is a conservative….. people think that he must be left wing because Obama nominated him for SCOTUS. NOPE! - he’s right wing and Obama was throwing the GOP a bone. The GOP just hated Obama so fucking much they slapped down a nominee that aligned with them.", ">\n\nTrue, Biden should have appointed someone else", ">\n\nOnly took a year and a half to appoint one for Trump. Also what about that DOJ policy about not investigating and prosecuting a sitting president which protected the former guy for, what, six years now?", ">\n\nGarland is not our friend.", ">\n\nWho’s friend, exactly? What does friendship have to do with accountability to rules and laws?\nAre you suggesting the DOJ should be aligned and friendly with one particular party or another and so they don’t have to follow rules and laws we expect others to comply with?", ">\n\nGarland is not a friend to justice.\nWhy has Trump not been indicted yet? What's the confusion?", ">\n\n\nWhy has Trump not been indicted yet?\n\nwhy would you expect him to have been? the investigation isn't over yet", ">\n\nit explains why they weren't indicted in the article", ">\n\nSome anonymous lawyer being quoted by CNN is not a definitive explanation at all. It's hearsay and well-meaning bullshit. But when the DOJ was asked? \"A spokesperson for the Department of Justice declined to comment.\" But if you do believe that anonymous source, do you really think they have executive privilege, as your source says? How TF do \"advisors\" get privilege?", ">\n\nthey worked in the White House", ">\n\nBad enough that everyone bought that crap, \"The president is immune to criminal prosecution and subpoenas.\" But now we're going to extend it to anyone who worked in the White House?! Holy cow you can't possibly believe that's a good idea.", ">\n\nAs. We. Would. Expect. 🤷‍♂️ \nCan't wait until Biden whines, makes excuses, tries to get a special master, claims that they where declassifi...... Oh wait. Dems don't do any of that.", ">\n\nIt doesn’t even matter cause republicans don’t care about mishandling classified document- oh wait…now they do.", ">\n\nAs a Democrat I am pretty pissed off at Biden for this, but I would be willing to bet he didn't know the documents were there. \nThat said, I am a strong believer in people being punished for breaking the law, even if they are on my \"team.\"\nIf he broke the law, punish him. \nJust make sure that that miserable, racist orange thing that yells all the time gets his as well.\nThis is the only way to have nice things.", ">\n\nBiden isn't asking for a special grand master or looking for a favorable court... weird.", ">\n\nLove how it took 2 years to do this for trump, and he ain't even president, 2 days for Biden and he is president. \nTo be clear, I'm not saying there shouldn't be an investigation, I'm saying Garland is showing his true colors pretty strongly with the disparity.\nEdit: I'm muting this thread, not trying to get banned for cussing some fool out again. Have a good night y'all.", ">\n\nThe difference will always be that most democrats are just fine with an investigation. Because they care about good governance instead of personality cults.", ">\n\nYeah, it's like Goofus and Gallant. Except Goofus wins every other election and beats your head in with a bat.", ">\n\nWeird how Garland can move with lightning speed when it’s a cover-your-ass political move. Lightning speed.", ">\n\nFucking ridiculous the kid-gloves treatment that Trump gets.", ">\n\nI feel like Trump is about to get his shit kicked in here by Jack Smith in about a month or so when the indictments start coming", ">\n\nI feel like someone has said this every month for the last 6 years. The point is, Trump is untouchable. His angry mob would never succeed in overthrowing the government, but they would likely affect quarterly profits.", ">\n\nThis right here. Gotta keep the wolves fed or they might bite you. \nDomestic Terrorism discourages commerce. They’re fucking cowards.", ">\n\nHow's that Trump indictment coming?", ">\n\nThis is all I'm concerned about. Biden's situation I'm sure will work itself out, but Trump has most certainly committed crimes well beyond and before simply having classified documents. I'm not even saying Biden hasn't broken the law, and he should be dealt with accordingly, but Trump has been a national security hazard and criminal since long before classified documents were found and obstruction was clearly committed to shield them, and this Biden situation should, in no way, get in the way of that case, which seems long overdue.", ">\n\nWeird. I thought the DOJ didn’t want to investigate presidents.", ">\n\nWeird, I recall the DOJ investigating Trump while he was president. And Clinton.", ">\n\nI'm not confused about it. There's no policy against investigating presidents, which is why the numerous investigations into recent sitting presidents happened and were not against any policy. There is a policy against indicting them, though that's not legally binding in any way, just a stated approach that the Justice dept. has outlined in the past.", ">\n\nThe difference between Republicans and Dems is on display again. \nNo cults, no obstructing. Let the legal system do its thing.", ">\n\nSo... he can move fast??", ">\n\nThis proves that Garland is exquisitely sensitive to (Republican) public opinion, which proves to me that he will never indict Trump.", ">\n\nHe has stated many times that no person is above the law. This proves that he's practices what he preaches.", ">\n\nDoes it though? He holds D’s to the rule of law, but drags his feet with R’s.. all to try to seem impartial. He is not holding everyone to the same standard.", ">\n\nthis is a good move despite what wackos in this sub will say. the alternative would be jim jordan and the house intelligence committee running crazy conspiracy theories over this investigation. \nwith this special counsel it will at least be an actual legitimate investigation that will in all likelihood tamper the political effects for biden, as well as create a more legitimate nonpartisan line between this and the trump situation. it won't matter for republicans anyway, but the appearance of impropriety is good!\nobviously there's some hiccup in whatever processes for classified documents there are if they can be mixed in with other documents, put in places they aren't supposed to be, forgotten about, etc. and perhaps that can come to light as a result of both of these investigations and those processes can be revised to address these issues, whether intentionally mishandled or mishandled due to ignorance/an accident.", ">\n\n\nthe alternative would be jim jordan and the house intelligence committee running crazy conspiracy theories over this investigation. \n\ni don't think is an \"either or\" kind of situation. you'll still get jim's hot take of the day once they set up the committee.", ">\n\nsure but as far as document requests and the like it could make it more complicated for the house to go as apeshit as they would otherwise", ">\n\nNo it won't. Because they are not grounded in reality. Just watch.", ">\n\ni mean the law still exists lol", ">\n\nDoes it, though?", ">\n\nyes\ndo you think jim jordan can just walk over to DOJ and grab a bunch of documents and tell the DOJ to fuck off?", ">\n\nNo. But he can tell the House to fuck off when they subpoena him. And that subpoena is referred to the DOJ for enforcement, Merrick Garland can sit on it for weeks and then eventually decline to prosecute. Just like it happened with Meadows." ]

[ "Do a complete investigation, gather the evidence, follow all procedures and the law, seek justice without fear or favor no matter who is involved. Figure this mess out.", ">\n\nFully agree - and I'd actually like the investigation to be concluded swiftly since the ones being investigated will likely be 100% cooperative. It's not like DoJ will have to be dealing with full on liars and criminals which takes forever to find the answers.", ">\n\nI 100% agree that there ought to be a reasonable investigation into this but I do have to wonder if any of this matters at all given that Biden is currently the president and therefore has not only the right to have classified information but also the ability to declassify that information.\nNot trying to make excuses for the oversight (or lack thereof) of classified documents, but it seems to me as though this requires an investigation into how classified documents are handled during and after individuals have been given such status and after said status has lapsed.\nLet's be perfectly honest, if they had taken different actions on the first set of documents, we likely wouldn't even know about this because there was nobody searching for them.\nHad Biden and his lawyers actually been seriously corrupt, they could easily have disposed of them in a fireplace or down a toilet and no one would know the better.\nThe fact that they brought this directly to the attention of the proper authorities is at least proof that they do have respect for the rule of law and are willing to except the consequences, even if it is going to be used to make political hay while the sun shines.\nThat said, this likely has huge implications for executive privilege, especially to the extent that the former president argued he had. I personally do not have a problem with the minister of th Office of the President being able to be held accountable for their actions but only if it is equally applied across the board and not just something that we will have to deal with when presidents from the Democratic party are being scrutinized.", ">\n\n\nhas not only the right to have classified information but also the ability to declassify that information.\n\nHe does. But apparently these docs were from his Vice Presidency under Obama. So, it's a bit uncertain.\nAnd it really undermines at least one of the central charges you could have lodged against Trump, that everyone that is able to access classified documents has a substantive responsibility to make sure they are handled appropriately. The \"oh, well, we had to leave in a hurry and things just got mixed up\" arguments Trump could have made before would have had little merit - especially when you consider previous historic cases where even a single doc mishandled ended up with someone in jail.\nBut now Trump will be able to dilute that charge completely. He's still fucked on obstruction and everything else (hopefully).", ">\n\nClassified != Compartmentalized, Top Secret, etc.", ">\n\nI agree with you, but I was recently informed that sources say some of these classified documents were classified Top Secret.\nIt does appear as though ABC is confirming that sources are saying that some of these were top secret documents.\n\nSources also told ABC News that the original batch of about 10 documents found in November contains classified vice-presidential briefing papers about foreign countries, some of which were marked top secret.\n\nAnd CNN is not even using the journalistic term source, going so far as to assert that some of these documents were top secret.\n\nSome of the classified documents were “top secret,” the highest level. They were found in three or four boxes that also contained unclassified papers that fall under the Presidential Records Act, CNN has reported.\n\nIf we are going to maintain Integrity about the treatment of top secret classified documents, it is important to hold both sides accountable for their retention of documents.\nThank goodness that Biden's lawyers were up front with the FBI and NARA rather than lying about the retention of documents and obstructing an investigation.\nI really hope that Biden doesn't try to use the executive privilege argument to keep himself from investigation, but this is likely going to be a permanent stain on his reputation and definitely opens up the presidential field in the Democratic Party for 2024.", ">\n\nWhy would this be a permanent stain on Biden’s reputation?", ">\n\nBecause it will 100% be used along with whataboutism to suggest that Biden was going after Trump for the same thing that he was caught doing, regardless of the fact that Biden was not responsible for the investigation into Trump's documents has not been outspoken about the retention of documents, subsequent Lies by his lawyers, and obstruction.\nI'm not saying that it is going to be fair, or even rational but it is going to cause a stain and that will be used to pillory him.", ">\n\nSo in essence, this is only going to be a stain in the minds of people who are rather brainless to begin with….gotcha", ">\n\nIts a stain because it's political ammunition for the other side, not because you or I see it for the opportunitistically timed political assault that it seems to be. In modern politics, being on the defensive is the same as losing. Hillary Clinton's email fiasco likely contributed to the 2016 election results even though she wasn't indicted for a crime.\nThe people on the other side of the political spectrum who would consider this whole fiasco a stain on Biden AREN'T brainless, they're heavily propogandized, and they DO vote. This whole thing will be used to justify any or all of Trump's conduct that should be immediately disqualifying. Expect this to be split-screened with all of Trump's legal woes.\nHopefully Trump won't make it to the 2024 Election season as a viable candidate. If Trump does make it, Trump will use this against Biden. If Trump loses out to someone like DeSantis, there will be a concerted effort to crucify Biden with it.", ">\n\nMy favorite part of this:\nNo raging tweets from the president making up executive powers. Accusing people of planting evidence and arguing about a deep state conspiracy against him.", ">\n\nI’d be hilarious if he copy pasted one of trumps tweets and ended it with JK I’m not a raving lunatic in a middle of a tantrum.", ">\n\nThat would be some great dark Brandon shit.", ">\n\nI am all for a special counsel being appointed. But a Trump appointee feels like an attempt by Garland to bend over backwards to show just how apolitical he is. If he wanted to reach across the aisle, he couldn’t find a Bush appointee rather than someone appointed by a man who literally tried to upend the Republic and is known for appointing partisan hacks?", ">\n\nThis is how Garland has been acting since appointed. It’s like he’s so terrified of being perceived as biased against repubs that he instead acts biased against dems. He has truly been a failure at AG.. even more of a letdown than Mueller", ">\n\nWell, Garland is a conservative….. people think that he must be left wing because Obama nominated him for SCOTUS. NOPE! - he’s right wing and Obama was throwing the GOP a bone. The GOP just hated Obama so fucking much they slapped down a nominee that aligned with them.", ">\n\nTrue, Biden should have appointed someone else", ">\n\nOnly took a year and a half to appoint one for Trump. Also what about that DOJ policy about not investigating and prosecuting a sitting president which protected the former guy for, what, six years now?", ">\n\nGarland is not our friend.", ">\n\nWho’s friend, exactly? What does friendship have to do with accountability to rules and laws?\nAre you suggesting the DOJ should be aligned and friendly with one particular party or another and so they don’t have to follow rules and laws we expect others to comply with?", ">\n\nGarland is not a friend to justice.\nWhy has Trump not been indicted yet? What's the confusion?", ">\n\n\nWhy has Trump not been indicted yet?\n\nwhy would you expect him to have been? the investigation isn't over yet", ">\n\nit explains why they weren't indicted in the article", ">\n\nSome anonymous lawyer being quoted by CNN is not a definitive explanation at all. It's hearsay and well-meaning bullshit. But when the DOJ was asked? \"A spokesperson for the Department of Justice declined to comment.\" But if you do believe that anonymous source, do you really think they have executive privilege, as your source says? How TF do \"advisors\" get privilege?", ">\n\nthey worked in the White House", ">\n\nBad enough that everyone bought that crap, \"The president is immune to criminal prosecution and subpoenas.\" But now we're going to extend it to anyone who worked in the White House?! Holy cow you can't possibly believe that's a good idea.", ">\n\nAs. We. Would. Expect. 🤷‍♂️ \nCan't wait until Biden whines, makes excuses, tries to get a special master, claims that they where declassifi...... Oh wait. Dems don't do any of that.", ">\n\nIt doesn’t even matter cause republicans don’t care about mishandling classified document- oh wait…now they do.", ">\n\nAs a Democrat I am pretty pissed off at Biden for this, but I would be willing to bet he didn't know the documents were there. \nThat said, I am a strong believer in people being punished for breaking the law, even if they are on my \"team.\"\nIf he broke the law, punish him. \nJust make sure that that miserable, racist orange thing that yells all the time gets his as well.\nThis is the only way to have nice things.", ">\n\nBiden isn't asking for a special grand master or looking for a favorable court... weird.", ">\n\nLove how it took 2 years to do this for trump, and he ain't even president, 2 days for Biden and he is president. \nTo be clear, I'm not saying there shouldn't be an investigation, I'm saying Garland is showing his true colors pretty strongly with the disparity.\nEdit: I'm muting this thread, not trying to get banned for cussing some fool out again. Have a good night y'all.", ">\n\nThe difference will always be that most democrats are just fine with an investigation. Because they care about good governance instead of personality cults.", ">\n\nYeah, it's like Goofus and Gallant. Except Goofus wins every other election and beats your head in with a bat.", ">\n\nWeird how Garland can move with lightning speed when it’s a cover-your-ass political move. Lightning speed.", ">\n\nFucking ridiculous the kid-gloves treatment that Trump gets.", ">\n\nI feel like Trump is about to get his shit kicked in here by Jack Smith in about a month or so when the indictments start coming", ">\n\nI feel like someone has said this every month for the last 6 years. The point is, Trump is untouchable. His angry mob would never succeed in overthrowing the government, but they would likely affect quarterly profits.", ">\n\nThis right here. Gotta keep the wolves fed or they might bite you. \nDomestic Terrorism discourages commerce. They’re fucking cowards.", ">\n\nHow's that Trump indictment coming?", ">\n\nThis is all I'm concerned about. Biden's situation I'm sure will work itself out, but Trump has most certainly committed crimes well beyond and before simply having classified documents. I'm not even saying Biden hasn't broken the law, and he should be dealt with accordingly, but Trump has been a national security hazard and criminal since long before classified documents were found and obstruction was clearly committed to shield them, and this Biden situation should, in no way, get in the way of that case, which seems long overdue.", ">\n\nWeird. I thought the DOJ didn’t want to investigate presidents.", ">\n\nWeird, I recall the DOJ investigating Trump while he was president. And Clinton.", ">\n\nI'm not confused about it. There's no policy against investigating presidents, which is why the numerous investigations into recent sitting presidents happened and were not against any policy. There is a policy against indicting them, though that's not legally binding in any way, just a stated approach that the Justice dept. has outlined in the past.", ">\n\nThe difference between Republicans and Dems is on display again. \nNo cults, no obstructing. Let the legal system do its thing.", ">\n\nSo... he can move fast??", ">\n\nThis proves that Garland is exquisitely sensitive to (Republican) public opinion, which proves to me that he will never indict Trump.", ">\n\nHe has stated many times that no person is above the law. This proves that he's practices what he preaches.", ">\n\nDoes it though? He holds D’s to the rule of law, but drags his feet with R’s.. all to try to seem impartial. He is not holding everyone to the same standard.", ">\n\nthis is a good move despite what wackos in this sub will say. the alternative would be jim jordan and the house intelligence committee running crazy conspiracy theories over this investigation. \nwith this special counsel it will at least be an actual legitimate investigation that will in all likelihood tamper the political effects for biden, as well as create a more legitimate nonpartisan line between this and the trump situation. it won't matter for republicans anyway, but the appearance of impropriety is good!\nobviously there's some hiccup in whatever processes for classified documents there are if they can be mixed in with other documents, put in places they aren't supposed to be, forgotten about, etc. and perhaps that can come to light as a result of both of these investigations and those processes can be revised to address these issues, whether intentionally mishandled or mishandled due to ignorance/an accident.", ">\n\n\nthe alternative would be jim jordan and the house intelligence committee running crazy conspiracy theories over this investigation. \n\ni don't think is an \"either or\" kind of situation. you'll still get jim's hot take of the day once they set up the committee.", ">\n\nsure but as far as document requests and the like it could make it more complicated for the house to go as apeshit as they would otherwise", ">\n\nNo it won't. Because they are not grounded in reality. Just watch.", ">\n\ni mean the law still exists lol", ">\n\nDoes it, though?", ">\n\nyes\ndo you think jim jordan can just walk over to DOJ and grab a bunch of documents and tell the DOJ to fuck off?", ">\n\nNo. But he can tell the House to fuck off when they subpoena him. And that subpoena is referred to the DOJ for enforcement, Merrick Garland can sit on it for weeks and then eventually decline to prosecute. Just like it happened with Meadows.", ">\n\nSure, sounds reasonable. Seems pretty likely somebody committed a crime. \nRemind me again why Garland took 20 extra months to take action when a Republican had documents like this?" ]

[ "Do a complete investigation, gather the evidence, follow all procedures and the law, seek justice without fear or favor no matter who is involved. Figure this mess out.", ">\n\nFully agree - and I'd actually like the investigation to be concluded swiftly since the ones being investigated will likely be 100% cooperative. It's not like DoJ will have to be dealing with full on liars and criminals which takes forever to find the answers.", ">\n\nI 100% agree that there ought to be a reasonable investigation into this but I do have to wonder if any of this matters at all given that Biden is currently the president and therefore has not only the right to have classified information but also the ability to declassify that information.\nNot trying to make excuses for the oversight (or lack thereof) of classified documents, but it seems to me as though this requires an investigation into how classified documents are handled during and after individuals have been given such status and after said status has lapsed.\nLet's be perfectly honest, if they had taken different actions on the first set of documents, we likely wouldn't even know about this because there was nobody searching for them.\nHad Biden and his lawyers actually been seriously corrupt, they could easily have disposed of them in a fireplace or down a toilet and no one would know the better.\nThe fact that they brought this directly to the attention of the proper authorities is at least proof that they do have respect for the rule of law and are willing to except the consequences, even if it is going to be used to make political hay while the sun shines.\nThat said, this likely has huge implications for executive privilege, especially to the extent that the former president argued he had. I personally do not have a problem with the minister of th Office of the President being able to be held accountable for their actions but only if it is equally applied across the board and not just something that we will have to deal with when presidents from the Democratic party are being scrutinized.", ">\n\n\nhas not only the right to have classified information but also the ability to declassify that information.\n\nHe does. But apparently these docs were from his Vice Presidency under Obama. So, it's a bit uncertain.\nAnd it really undermines at least one of the central charges you could have lodged against Trump, that everyone that is able to access classified documents has a substantive responsibility to make sure they are handled appropriately. The \"oh, well, we had to leave in a hurry and things just got mixed up\" arguments Trump could have made before would have had little merit - especially when you consider previous historic cases where even a single doc mishandled ended up with someone in jail.\nBut now Trump will be able to dilute that charge completely. He's still fucked on obstruction and everything else (hopefully).", ">\n\nClassified != Compartmentalized, Top Secret, etc.", ">\n\nI agree with you, but I was recently informed that sources say some of these classified documents were classified Top Secret.\nIt does appear as though ABC is confirming that sources are saying that some of these were top secret documents.\n\nSources also told ABC News that the original batch of about 10 documents found in November contains classified vice-presidential briefing papers about foreign countries, some of which were marked top secret.\n\nAnd CNN is not even using the journalistic term source, going so far as to assert that some of these documents were top secret.\n\nSome of the classified documents were “top secret,” the highest level. They were found in three or four boxes that also contained unclassified papers that fall under the Presidential Records Act, CNN has reported.\n\nIf we are going to maintain Integrity about the treatment of top secret classified documents, it is important to hold both sides accountable for their retention of documents.\nThank goodness that Biden's lawyers were up front with the FBI and NARA rather than lying about the retention of documents and obstructing an investigation.\nI really hope that Biden doesn't try to use the executive privilege argument to keep himself from investigation, but this is likely going to be a permanent stain on his reputation and definitely opens up the presidential field in the Democratic Party for 2024.", ">\n\nWhy would this be a permanent stain on Biden’s reputation?", ">\n\nBecause it will 100% be used along with whataboutism to suggest that Biden was going after Trump for the same thing that he was caught doing, regardless of the fact that Biden was not responsible for the investigation into Trump's documents has not been outspoken about the retention of documents, subsequent Lies by his lawyers, and obstruction.\nI'm not saying that it is going to be fair, or even rational but it is going to cause a stain and that will be used to pillory him.", ">\n\nSo in essence, this is only going to be a stain in the minds of people who are rather brainless to begin with….gotcha", ">\n\nIts a stain because it's political ammunition for the other side, not because you or I see it for the opportunitistically timed political assault that it seems to be. In modern politics, being on the defensive is the same as losing. Hillary Clinton's email fiasco likely contributed to the 2016 election results even though she wasn't indicted for a crime.\nThe people on the other side of the political spectrum who would consider this whole fiasco a stain on Biden AREN'T brainless, they're heavily propogandized, and they DO vote. This whole thing will be used to justify any or all of Trump's conduct that should be immediately disqualifying. Expect this to be split-screened with all of Trump's legal woes.\nHopefully Trump won't make it to the 2024 Election season as a viable candidate. If Trump does make it, Trump will use this against Biden. If Trump loses out to someone like DeSantis, there will be a concerted effort to crucify Biden with it.", ">\n\nMy favorite part of this:\nNo raging tweets from the president making up executive powers. Accusing people of planting evidence and arguing about a deep state conspiracy against him.", ">\n\nI’d be hilarious if he copy pasted one of trumps tweets and ended it with JK I’m not a raving lunatic in a middle of a tantrum.", ">\n\nThat would be some great dark Brandon shit.", ">\n\nI am all for a special counsel being appointed. But a Trump appointee feels like an attempt by Garland to bend over backwards to show just how apolitical he is. If he wanted to reach across the aisle, he couldn’t find a Bush appointee rather than someone appointed by a man who literally tried to upend the Republic and is known for appointing partisan hacks?", ">\n\nThis is how Garland has been acting since appointed. It’s like he’s so terrified of being perceived as biased against repubs that he instead acts biased against dems. He has truly been a failure at AG.. even more of a letdown than Mueller", ">\n\nWell, Garland is a conservative….. people think that he must be left wing because Obama nominated him for SCOTUS. NOPE! - he’s right wing and Obama was throwing the GOP a bone. The GOP just hated Obama so fucking much they slapped down a nominee that aligned with them.", ">\n\nTrue, Biden should have appointed someone else", ">\n\nOnly took a year and a half to appoint one for Trump. Also what about that DOJ policy about not investigating and prosecuting a sitting president which protected the former guy for, what, six years now?", ">\n\nGarland is not our friend.", ">\n\nWho’s friend, exactly? What does friendship have to do with accountability to rules and laws?\nAre you suggesting the DOJ should be aligned and friendly with one particular party or another and so they don’t have to follow rules and laws we expect others to comply with?", ">\n\nGarland is not a friend to justice.\nWhy has Trump not been indicted yet? What's the confusion?", ">\n\n\nWhy has Trump not been indicted yet?\n\nwhy would you expect him to have been? the investigation isn't over yet", ">\n\nit explains why they weren't indicted in the article", ">\n\nSome anonymous lawyer being quoted by CNN is not a definitive explanation at all. It's hearsay and well-meaning bullshit. But when the DOJ was asked? \"A spokesperson for the Department of Justice declined to comment.\" But if you do believe that anonymous source, do you really think they have executive privilege, as your source says? How TF do \"advisors\" get privilege?", ">\n\nthey worked in the White House", ">\n\nBad enough that everyone bought that crap, \"The president is immune to criminal prosecution and subpoenas.\" But now we're going to extend it to anyone who worked in the White House?! Holy cow you can't possibly believe that's a good idea.", ">\n\nAs. We. Would. Expect. 🤷‍♂️ \nCan't wait until Biden whines, makes excuses, tries to get a special master, claims that they where declassifi...... Oh wait. Dems don't do any of that.", ">\n\nIt doesn’t even matter cause republicans don’t care about mishandling classified document- oh wait…now they do.", ">\n\nAs a Democrat I am pretty pissed off at Biden for this, but I would be willing to bet he didn't know the documents were there. \nThat said, I am a strong believer in people being punished for breaking the law, even if they are on my \"team.\"\nIf he broke the law, punish him. \nJust make sure that that miserable, racist orange thing that yells all the time gets his as well.\nThis is the only way to have nice things.", ">\n\nBiden isn't asking for a special grand master or looking for a favorable court... weird.", ">\n\nLove how it took 2 years to do this for trump, and he ain't even president, 2 days for Biden and he is president. \nTo be clear, I'm not saying there shouldn't be an investigation, I'm saying Garland is showing his true colors pretty strongly with the disparity.\nEdit: I'm muting this thread, not trying to get banned for cussing some fool out again. Have a good night y'all.", ">\n\nThe difference will always be that most democrats are just fine with an investigation. Because they care about good governance instead of personality cults.", ">\n\nYeah, it's like Goofus and Gallant. Except Goofus wins every other election and beats your head in with a bat.", ">\n\nWeird how Garland can move with lightning speed when it’s a cover-your-ass political move. Lightning speed.", ">\n\nFucking ridiculous the kid-gloves treatment that Trump gets.", ">\n\nI feel like Trump is about to get his shit kicked in here by Jack Smith in about a month or so when the indictments start coming", ">\n\nI feel like someone has said this every month for the last 6 years. The point is, Trump is untouchable. His angry mob would never succeed in overthrowing the government, but they would likely affect quarterly profits.", ">\n\nThis right here. Gotta keep the wolves fed or they might bite you. \nDomestic Terrorism discourages commerce. They’re fucking cowards.", ">\n\nHow's that Trump indictment coming?", ">\n\nThis is all I'm concerned about. Biden's situation I'm sure will work itself out, but Trump has most certainly committed crimes well beyond and before simply having classified documents. I'm not even saying Biden hasn't broken the law, and he should be dealt with accordingly, but Trump has been a national security hazard and criminal since long before classified documents were found and obstruction was clearly committed to shield them, and this Biden situation should, in no way, get in the way of that case, which seems long overdue.", ">\n\nWeird. I thought the DOJ didn’t want to investigate presidents.", ">\n\nWeird, I recall the DOJ investigating Trump while he was president. And Clinton.", ">\n\nI'm not confused about it. There's no policy against investigating presidents, which is why the numerous investigations into recent sitting presidents happened and were not against any policy. There is a policy against indicting them, though that's not legally binding in any way, just a stated approach that the Justice dept. has outlined in the past.", ">\n\nThe difference between Republicans and Dems is on display again. \nNo cults, no obstructing. Let the legal system do its thing.", ">\n\nSo... he can move fast??", ">\n\nThis proves that Garland is exquisitely sensitive to (Republican) public opinion, which proves to me that he will never indict Trump.", ">\n\nHe has stated many times that no person is above the law. This proves that he's practices what he preaches.", ">\n\nDoes it though? He holds D’s to the rule of law, but drags his feet with R’s.. all to try to seem impartial. He is not holding everyone to the same standard.", ">\n\nthis is a good move despite what wackos in this sub will say. the alternative would be jim jordan and the house intelligence committee running crazy conspiracy theories over this investigation. \nwith this special counsel it will at least be an actual legitimate investigation that will in all likelihood tamper the political effects for biden, as well as create a more legitimate nonpartisan line between this and the trump situation. it won't matter for republicans anyway, but the appearance of impropriety is good!\nobviously there's some hiccup in whatever processes for classified documents there are if they can be mixed in with other documents, put in places they aren't supposed to be, forgotten about, etc. and perhaps that can come to light as a result of both of these investigations and those processes can be revised to address these issues, whether intentionally mishandled or mishandled due to ignorance/an accident.", ">\n\n\nthe alternative would be jim jordan and the house intelligence committee running crazy conspiracy theories over this investigation. \n\ni don't think is an \"either or\" kind of situation. you'll still get jim's hot take of the day once they set up the committee.", ">\n\nsure but as far as document requests and the like it could make it more complicated for the house to go as apeshit as they would otherwise", ">\n\nNo it won't. Because they are not grounded in reality. Just watch.", ">\n\ni mean the law still exists lol", ">\n\nDoes it, though?", ">\n\nyes\ndo you think jim jordan can just walk over to DOJ and grab a bunch of documents and tell the DOJ to fuck off?", ">\n\nNo. But he can tell the House to fuck off when they subpoena him. And that subpoena is referred to the DOJ for enforcement, Merrick Garland can sit on it for weeks and then eventually decline to prosecute. Just like it happened with Meadows.", ">\n\nSure, sounds reasonable. Seems pretty likely somebody committed a crime. \nRemind me again why Garland took 20 extra months to take action when a Republican had documents like this?", ">\n\nMerrick Garland took two years to appoint a special counsel to Trump but he took 1 week to appoint a special counsel to Biden. Is he trying to please the Republican house or someone powerful is really trying hard that Biden don't run again. What an idiotic decision. He is giving fuel to republicans. Any normal person would understand that Biden administration is co-operating with the appropriate authority to resolve this matter. I am so disappointed at Merrick Garland." ]

[ "Do a complete investigation, gather the evidence, follow all procedures and the law, seek justice without fear or favor no matter who is involved. Figure this mess out.", ">\n\nFully agree - and I'd actually like the investigation to be concluded swiftly since the ones being investigated will likely be 100% cooperative. It's not like DoJ will have to be dealing with full on liars and criminals which takes forever to find the answers.", ">\n\nI 100% agree that there ought to be a reasonable investigation into this but I do have to wonder if any of this matters at all given that Biden is currently the president and therefore has not only the right to have classified information but also the ability to declassify that information.\nNot trying to make excuses for the oversight (or lack thereof) of classified documents, but it seems to me as though this requires an investigation into how classified documents are handled during and after individuals have been given such status and after said status has lapsed.\nLet's be perfectly honest, if they had taken different actions on the first set of documents, we likely wouldn't even know about this because there was nobody searching for them.\nHad Biden and his lawyers actually been seriously corrupt, they could easily have disposed of them in a fireplace or down a toilet and no one would know the better.\nThe fact that they brought this directly to the attention of the proper authorities is at least proof that they do have respect for the rule of law and are willing to except the consequences, even if it is going to be used to make political hay while the sun shines.\nThat said, this likely has huge implications for executive privilege, especially to the extent that the former president argued he had. I personally do not have a problem with the minister of th Office of the President being able to be held accountable for their actions but only if it is equally applied across the board and not just something that we will have to deal with when presidents from the Democratic party are being scrutinized.", ">\n\n\nhas not only the right to have classified information but also the ability to declassify that information.\n\nHe does. But apparently these docs were from his Vice Presidency under Obama. So, it's a bit uncertain.\nAnd it really undermines at least one of the central charges you could have lodged against Trump, that everyone that is able to access classified documents has a substantive responsibility to make sure they are handled appropriately. The \"oh, well, we had to leave in a hurry and things just got mixed up\" arguments Trump could have made before would have had little merit - especially when you consider previous historic cases where even a single doc mishandled ended up with someone in jail.\nBut now Trump will be able to dilute that charge completely. He's still fucked on obstruction and everything else (hopefully).", ">\n\nClassified != Compartmentalized, Top Secret, etc.", ">\n\nI agree with you, but I was recently informed that sources say some of these classified documents were classified Top Secret.\nIt does appear as though ABC is confirming that sources are saying that some of these were top secret documents.\n\nSources also told ABC News that the original batch of about 10 documents found in November contains classified vice-presidential briefing papers about foreign countries, some of which were marked top secret.\n\nAnd CNN is not even using the journalistic term source, going so far as to assert that some of these documents were top secret.\n\nSome of the classified documents were “top secret,” the highest level. They were found in three or four boxes that also contained unclassified papers that fall under the Presidential Records Act, CNN has reported.\n\nIf we are going to maintain Integrity about the treatment of top secret classified documents, it is important to hold both sides accountable for their retention of documents.\nThank goodness that Biden's lawyers were up front with the FBI and NARA rather than lying about the retention of documents and obstructing an investigation.\nI really hope that Biden doesn't try to use the executive privilege argument to keep himself from investigation, but this is likely going to be a permanent stain on his reputation and definitely opens up the presidential field in the Democratic Party for 2024.", ">\n\nWhy would this be a permanent stain on Biden’s reputation?", ">\n\nBecause it will 100% be used along with whataboutism to suggest that Biden was going after Trump for the same thing that he was caught doing, regardless of the fact that Biden was not responsible for the investigation into Trump's documents has not been outspoken about the retention of documents, subsequent Lies by his lawyers, and obstruction.\nI'm not saying that it is going to be fair, or even rational but it is going to cause a stain and that will be used to pillory him.", ">\n\nSo in essence, this is only going to be a stain in the minds of people who are rather brainless to begin with….gotcha", ">\n\nIts a stain because it's political ammunition for the other side, not because you or I see it for the opportunitistically timed political assault that it seems to be. In modern politics, being on the defensive is the same as losing. Hillary Clinton's email fiasco likely contributed to the 2016 election results even though she wasn't indicted for a crime.\nThe people on the other side of the political spectrum who would consider this whole fiasco a stain on Biden AREN'T brainless, they're heavily propogandized, and they DO vote. This whole thing will be used to justify any or all of Trump's conduct that should be immediately disqualifying. Expect this to be split-screened with all of Trump's legal woes.\nHopefully Trump won't make it to the 2024 Election season as a viable candidate. If Trump does make it, Trump will use this against Biden. If Trump loses out to someone like DeSantis, there will be a concerted effort to crucify Biden with it.", ">\n\nMy favorite part of this:\nNo raging tweets from the president making up executive powers. Accusing people of planting evidence and arguing about a deep state conspiracy against him.", ">\n\nI’d be hilarious if he copy pasted one of trumps tweets and ended it with JK I’m not a raving lunatic in a middle of a tantrum.", ">\n\nThat would be some great dark Brandon shit.", ">\n\nI am all for a special counsel being appointed. But a Trump appointee feels like an attempt by Garland to bend over backwards to show just how apolitical he is. If he wanted to reach across the aisle, he couldn’t find a Bush appointee rather than someone appointed by a man who literally tried to upend the Republic and is known for appointing partisan hacks?", ">\n\nThis is how Garland has been acting since appointed. It’s like he’s so terrified of being perceived as biased against repubs that he instead acts biased against dems. He has truly been a failure at AG.. even more of a letdown than Mueller", ">\n\nWell, Garland is a conservative….. people think that he must be left wing because Obama nominated him for SCOTUS. NOPE! - he’s right wing and Obama was throwing the GOP a bone. The GOP just hated Obama so fucking much they slapped down a nominee that aligned with them.", ">\n\nTrue, Biden should have appointed someone else", ">\n\nOnly took a year and a half to appoint one for Trump. Also what about that DOJ policy about not investigating and prosecuting a sitting president which protected the former guy for, what, six years now?", ">\n\nGarland is not our friend.", ">\n\nWho’s friend, exactly? What does friendship have to do with accountability to rules and laws?\nAre you suggesting the DOJ should be aligned and friendly with one particular party or another and so they don’t have to follow rules and laws we expect others to comply with?", ">\n\nGarland is not a friend to justice.\nWhy has Trump not been indicted yet? What's the confusion?", ">\n\n\nWhy has Trump not been indicted yet?\n\nwhy would you expect him to have been? the investigation isn't over yet", ">\n\nit explains why they weren't indicted in the article", ">\n\nSome anonymous lawyer being quoted by CNN is not a definitive explanation at all. It's hearsay and well-meaning bullshit. But when the DOJ was asked? \"A spokesperson for the Department of Justice declined to comment.\" But if you do believe that anonymous source, do you really think they have executive privilege, as your source says? How TF do \"advisors\" get privilege?", ">\n\nthey worked in the White House", ">\n\nBad enough that everyone bought that crap, \"The president is immune to criminal prosecution and subpoenas.\" But now we're going to extend it to anyone who worked in the White House?! Holy cow you can't possibly believe that's a good idea.", ">\n\nAs. We. Would. Expect. 🤷‍♂️ \nCan't wait until Biden whines, makes excuses, tries to get a special master, claims that they where declassifi...... Oh wait. Dems don't do any of that.", ">\n\nIt doesn’t even matter cause republicans don’t care about mishandling classified document- oh wait…now they do.", ">\n\nAs a Democrat I am pretty pissed off at Biden for this, but I would be willing to bet he didn't know the documents were there. \nThat said, I am a strong believer in people being punished for breaking the law, even if they are on my \"team.\"\nIf he broke the law, punish him. \nJust make sure that that miserable, racist orange thing that yells all the time gets his as well.\nThis is the only way to have nice things.", ">\n\nBiden isn't asking for a special grand master or looking for a favorable court... weird.", ">\n\nLove how it took 2 years to do this for trump, and he ain't even president, 2 days for Biden and he is president. \nTo be clear, I'm not saying there shouldn't be an investigation, I'm saying Garland is showing his true colors pretty strongly with the disparity.\nEdit: I'm muting this thread, not trying to get banned for cussing some fool out again. Have a good night y'all.", ">\n\nThe difference will always be that most democrats are just fine with an investigation. Because they care about good governance instead of personality cults.", ">\n\nYeah, it's like Goofus and Gallant. Except Goofus wins every other election and beats your head in with a bat.", ">\n\nWeird how Garland can move with lightning speed when it’s a cover-your-ass political move. Lightning speed.", ">\n\nFucking ridiculous the kid-gloves treatment that Trump gets.", ">\n\nI feel like Trump is about to get his shit kicked in here by Jack Smith in about a month or so when the indictments start coming", ">\n\nI feel like someone has said this every month for the last 6 years. The point is, Trump is untouchable. His angry mob would never succeed in overthrowing the government, but they would likely affect quarterly profits.", ">\n\nThis right here. Gotta keep the wolves fed or they might bite you. \nDomestic Terrorism discourages commerce. They’re fucking cowards.", ">\n\nHow's that Trump indictment coming?", ">\n\nThis is all I'm concerned about. Biden's situation I'm sure will work itself out, but Trump has most certainly committed crimes well beyond and before simply having classified documents. I'm not even saying Biden hasn't broken the law, and he should be dealt with accordingly, but Trump has been a national security hazard and criminal since long before classified documents were found and obstruction was clearly committed to shield them, and this Biden situation should, in no way, get in the way of that case, which seems long overdue.", ">\n\nWeird. I thought the DOJ didn’t want to investigate presidents.", ">\n\nWeird, I recall the DOJ investigating Trump while he was president. And Clinton.", ">\n\nI'm not confused about it. There's no policy against investigating presidents, which is why the numerous investigations into recent sitting presidents happened and were not against any policy. There is a policy against indicting them, though that's not legally binding in any way, just a stated approach that the Justice dept. has outlined in the past.", ">\n\nThe difference between Republicans and Dems is on display again. \nNo cults, no obstructing. Let the legal system do its thing.", ">\n\nSo... he can move fast??", ">\n\nThis proves that Garland is exquisitely sensitive to (Republican) public opinion, which proves to me that he will never indict Trump.", ">\n\nHe has stated many times that no person is above the law. This proves that he's practices what he preaches.", ">\n\nDoes it though? He holds D’s to the rule of law, but drags his feet with R’s.. all to try to seem impartial. He is not holding everyone to the same standard.", ">\n\nthis is a good move despite what wackos in this sub will say. the alternative would be jim jordan and the house intelligence committee running crazy conspiracy theories over this investigation. \nwith this special counsel it will at least be an actual legitimate investigation that will in all likelihood tamper the political effects for biden, as well as create a more legitimate nonpartisan line between this and the trump situation. it won't matter for republicans anyway, but the appearance of impropriety is good!\nobviously there's some hiccup in whatever processes for classified documents there are if they can be mixed in with other documents, put in places they aren't supposed to be, forgotten about, etc. and perhaps that can come to light as a result of both of these investigations and those processes can be revised to address these issues, whether intentionally mishandled or mishandled due to ignorance/an accident.", ">\n\n\nthe alternative would be jim jordan and the house intelligence committee running crazy conspiracy theories over this investigation. \n\ni don't think is an \"either or\" kind of situation. you'll still get jim's hot take of the day once they set up the committee.", ">\n\nsure but as far as document requests and the like it could make it more complicated for the house to go as apeshit as they would otherwise", ">\n\nNo it won't. Because they are not grounded in reality. Just watch.", ">\n\ni mean the law still exists lol", ">\n\nDoes it, though?", ">\n\nyes\ndo you think jim jordan can just walk over to DOJ and grab a bunch of documents and tell the DOJ to fuck off?", ">\n\nNo. But he can tell the House to fuck off when they subpoena him. And that subpoena is referred to the DOJ for enforcement, Merrick Garland can sit on it for weeks and then eventually decline to prosecute. Just like it happened with Meadows.", ">\n\nSure, sounds reasonable. Seems pretty likely somebody committed a crime. \nRemind me again why Garland took 20 extra months to take action when a Republican had documents like this?", ">\n\nMerrick Garland took two years to appoint a special counsel to Trump but he took 1 week to appoint a special counsel to Biden. Is he trying to please the Republican house or someone powerful is really trying hard that Biden don't run again. What an idiotic decision. He is giving fuel to republicans. Any normal person would understand that Biden administration is co-operating with the appropriate authority to resolve this matter. I am so disappointed at Merrick Garland.", ">\n\nSo the day after trump announced he was running he appointed a special counsel. The day after Biden (presumptive candidate) is being investigated, appoint a special counsel.... seems consistent." ]

[ "Do a complete investigation, gather the evidence, follow all procedures and the law, seek justice without fear or favor no matter who is involved. Figure this mess out.", ">\n\nFully agree - and I'd actually like the investigation to be concluded swiftly since the ones being investigated will likely be 100% cooperative. It's not like DoJ will have to be dealing with full on liars and criminals which takes forever to find the answers.", ">\n\nI 100% agree that there ought to be a reasonable investigation into this but I do have to wonder if any of this matters at all given that Biden is currently the president and therefore has not only the right to have classified information but also the ability to declassify that information.\nNot trying to make excuses for the oversight (or lack thereof) of classified documents, but it seems to me as though this requires an investigation into how classified documents are handled during and after individuals have been given such status and after said status has lapsed.\nLet's be perfectly honest, if they had taken different actions on the first set of documents, we likely wouldn't even know about this because there was nobody searching for them.\nHad Biden and his lawyers actually been seriously corrupt, they could easily have disposed of them in a fireplace or down a toilet and no one would know the better.\nThe fact that they brought this directly to the attention of the proper authorities is at least proof that they do have respect for the rule of law and are willing to except the consequences, even if it is going to be used to make political hay while the sun shines.\nThat said, this likely has huge implications for executive privilege, especially to the extent that the former president argued he had. I personally do not have a problem with the minister of th Office of the President being able to be held accountable for their actions but only if it is equally applied across the board and not just something that we will have to deal with when presidents from the Democratic party are being scrutinized.", ">\n\n\nhas not only the right to have classified information but also the ability to declassify that information.\n\nHe does. But apparently these docs were from his Vice Presidency under Obama. So, it's a bit uncertain.\nAnd it really undermines at least one of the central charges you could have lodged against Trump, that everyone that is able to access classified documents has a substantive responsibility to make sure they are handled appropriately. The \"oh, well, we had to leave in a hurry and things just got mixed up\" arguments Trump could have made before would have had little merit - especially when you consider previous historic cases where even a single doc mishandled ended up with someone in jail.\nBut now Trump will be able to dilute that charge completely. He's still fucked on obstruction and everything else (hopefully).", ">\n\nClassified != Compartmentalized, Top Secret, etc.", ">\n\nI agree with you, but I was recently informed that sources say some of these classified documents were classified Top Secret.\nIt does appear as though ABC is confirming that sources are saying that some of these were top secret documents.\n\nSources also told ABC News that the original batch of about 10 documents found in November contains classified vice-presidential briefing papers about foreign countries, some of which were marked top secret.\n\nAnd CNN is not even using the journalistic term source, going so far as to assert that some of these documents were top secret.\n\nSome of the classified documents were “top secret,” the highest level. They were found in three or four boxes that also contained unclassified papers that fall under the Presidential Records Act, CNN has reported.\n\nIf we are going to maintain Integrity about the treatment of top secret classified documents, it is important to hold both sides accountable for their retention of documents.\nThank goodness that Biden's lawyers were up front with the FBI and NARA rather than lying about the retention of documents and obstructing an investigation.\nI really hope that Biden doesn't try to use the executive privilege argument to keep himself from investigation, but this is likely going to be a permanent stain on his reputation and definitely opens up the presidential field in the Democratic Party for 2024.", ">\n\nWhy would this be a permanent stain on Biden’s reputation?", ">\n\nBecause it will 100% be used along with whataboutism to suggest that Biden was going after Trump for the same thing that he was caught doing, regardless of the fact that Biden was not responsible for the investigation into Trump's documents has not been outspoken about the retention of documents, subsequent Lies by his lawyers, and obstruction.\nI'm not saying that it is going to be fair, or even rational but it is going to cause a stain and that will be used to pillory him.", ">\n\nSo in essence, this is only going to be a stain in the minds of people who are rather brainless to begin with….gotcha", ">\n\nIts a stain because it's political ammunition for the other side, not because you or I see it for the opportunitistically timed political assault that it seems to be. In modern politics, being on the defensive is the same as losing. Hillary Clinton's email fiasco likely contributed to the 2016 election results even though she wasn't indicted for a crime.\nThe people on the other side of the political spectrum who would consider this whole fiasco a stain on Biden AREN'T brainless, they're heavily propogandized, and they DO vote. This whole thing will be used to justify any or all of Trump's conduct that should be immediately disqualifying. Expect this to be split-screened with all of Trump's legal woes.\nHopefully Trump won't make it to the 2024 Election season as a viable candidate. If Trump does make it, Trump will use this against Biden. If Trump loses out to someone like DeSantis, there will be a concerted effort to crucify Biden with it.", ">\n\nMy favorite part of this:\nNo raging tweets from the president making up executive powers. Accusing people of planting evidence and arguing about a deep state conspiracy against him.", ">\n\nI’d be hilarious if he copy pasted one of trumps tweets and ended it with JK I’m not a raving lunatic in a middle of a tantrum.", ">\n\nThat would be some great dark Brandon shit.", ">\n\nI am all for a special counsel being appointed. But a Trump appointee feels like an attempt by Garland to bend over backwards to show just how apolitical he is. If he wanted to reach across the aisle, he couldn’t find a Bush appointee rather than someone appointed by a man who literally tried to upend the Republic and is known for appointing partisan hacks?", ">\n\nThis is how Garland has been acting since appointed. It’s like he’s so terrified of being perceived as biased against repubs that he instead acts biased against dems. He has truly been a failure at AG.. even more of a letdown than Mueller", ">\n\nWell, Garland is a conservative….. people think that he must be left wing because Obama nominated him for SCOTUS. NOPE! - he’s right wing and Obama was throwing the GOP a bone. The GOP just hated Obama so fucking much they slapped down a nominee that aligned with them.", ">\n\nTrue, Biden should have appointed someone else", ">\n\nOnly took a year and a half to appoint one for Trump. Also what about that DOJ policy about not investigating and prosecuting a sitting president which protected the former guy for, what, six years now?", ">\n\nGarland is not our friend.", ">\n\nWho’s friend, exactly? What does friendship have to do with accountability to rules and laws?\nAre you suggesting the DOJ should be aligned and friendly with one particular party or another and so they don’t have to follow rules and laws we expect others to comply with?", ">\n\nGarland is not a friend to justice.\nWhy has Trump not been indicted yet? What's the confusion?", ">\n\n\nWhy has Trump not been indicted yet?\n\nwhy would you expect him to have been? the investigation isn't over yet", ">\n\nit explains why they weren't indicted in the article", ">\n\nSome anonymous lawyer being quoted by CNN is not a definitive explanation at all. It's hearsay and well-meaning bullshit. But when the DOJ was asked? \"A spokesperson for the Department of Justice declined to comment.\" But if you do believe that anonymous source, do you really think they have executive privilege, as your source says? How TF do \"advisors\" get privilege?", ">\n\nthey worked in the White House", ">\n\nBad enough that everyone bought that crap, \"The president is immune to criminal prosecution and subpoenas.\" But now we're going to extend it to anyone who worked in the White House?! Holy cow you can't possibly believe that's a good idea.", ">\n\nAs. We. Would. Expect. 🤷‍♂️ \nCan't wait until Biden whines, makes excuses, tries to get a special master, claims that they where declassifi...... Oh wait. Dems don't do any of that.", ">\n\nIt doesn’t even matter cause republicans don’t care about mishandling classified document- oh wait…now they do.", ">\n\nAs a Democrat I am pretty pissed off at Biden for this, but I would be willing to bet he didn't know the documents were there. \nThat said, I am a strong believer in people being punished for breaking the law, even if they are on my \"team.\"\nIf he broke the law, punish him. \nJust make sure that that miserable, racist orange thing that yells all the time gets his as well.\nThis is the only way to have nice things.", ">\n\nBiden isn't asking for a special grand master or looking for a favorable court... weird.", ">\n\nLove how it took 2 years to do this for trump, and he ain't even president, 2 days for Biden and he is president. \nTo be clear, I'm not saying there shouldn't be an investigation, I'm saying Garland is showing his true colors pretty strongly with the disparity.\nEdit: I'm muting this thread, not trying to get banned for cussing some fool out again. Have a good night y'all.", ">\n\nThe difference will always be that most democrats are just fine with an investigation. Because they care about good governance instead of personality cults.", ">\n\nYeah, it's like Goofus and Gallant. Except Goofus wins every other election and beats your head in with a bat.", ">\n\nWeird how Garland can move with lightning speed when it’s a cover-your-ass political move. Lightning speed.", ">\n\nFucking ridiculous the kid-gloves treatment that Trump gets.", ">\n\nI feel like Trump is about to get his shit kicked in here by Jack Smith in about a month or so when the indictments start coming", ">\n\nI feel like someone has said this every month for the last 6 years. The point is, Trump is untouchable. His angry mob would never succeed in overthrowing the government, but they would likely affect quarterly profits.", ">\n\nThis right here. Gotta keep the wolves fed or they might bite you. \nDomestic Terrorism discourages commerce. They’re fucking cowards.", ">\n\nHow's that Trump indictment coming?", ">\n\nThis is all I'm concerned about. Biden's situation I'm sure will work itself out, but Trump has most certainly committed crimes well beyond and before simply having classified documents. I'm not even saying Biden hasn't broken the law, and he should be dealt with accordingly, but Trump has been a national security hazard and criminal since long before classified documents were found and obstruction was clearly committed to shield them, and this Biden situation should, in no way, get in the way of that case, which seems long overdue.", ">\n\nWeird. I thought the DOJ didn’t want to investigate presidents.", ">\n\nWeird, I recall the DOJ investigating Trump while he was president. And Clinton.", ">\n\nI'm not confused about it. There's no policy against investigating presidents, which is why the numerous investigations into recent sitting presidents happened and were not against any policy. There is a policy against indicting them, though that's not legally binding in any way, just a stated approach that the Justice dept. has outlined in the past.", ">\n\nThe difference between Republicans and Dems is on display again. \nNo cults, no obstructing. Let the legal system do its thing.", ">\n\nSo... he can move fast??", ">\n\nThis proves that Garland is exquisitely sensitive to (Republican) public opinion, which proves to me that he will never indict Trump.", ">\n\nHe has stated many times that no person is above the law. This proves that he's practices what he preaches.", ">\n\nDoes it though? He holds D’s to the rule of law, but drags his feet with R’s.. all to try to seem impartial. He is not holding everyone to the same standard.", ">\n\nthis is a good move despite what wackos in this sub will say. the alternative would be jim jordan and the house intelligence committee running crazy conspiracy theories over this investigation. \nwith this special counsel it will at least be an actual legitimate investigation that will in all likelihood tamper the political effects for biden, as well as create a more legitimate nonpartisan line between this and the trump situation. it won't matter for republicans anyway, but the appearance of impropriety is good!\nobviously there's some hiccup in whatever processes for classified documents there are if they can be mixed in with other documents, put in places they aren't supposed to be, forgotten about, etc. and perhaps that can come to light as a result of both of these investigations and those processes can be revised to address these issues, whether intentionally mishandled or mishandled due to ignorance/an accident.", ">\n\n\nthe alternative would be jim jordan and the house intelligence committee running crazy conspiracy theories over this investigation. \n\ni don't think is an \"either or\" kind of situation. you'll still get jim's hot take of the day once they set up the committee.", ">\n\nsure but as far as document requests and the like it could make it more complicated for the house to go as apeshit as they would otherwise", ">\n\nNo it won't. Because they are not grounded in reality. Just watch.", ">\n\ni mean the law still exists lol", ">\n\nDoes it, though?", ">\n\nyes\ndo you think jim jordan can just walk over to DOJ and grab a bunch of documents and tell the DOJ to fuck off?", ">\n\nNo. But he can tell the House to fuck off when they subpoena him. And that subpoena is referred to the DOJ for enforcement, Merrick Garland can sit on it for weeks and then eventually decline to prosecute. Just like it happened with Meadows.", ">\n\nSure, sounds reasonable. Seems pretty likely somebody committed a crime. \nRemind me again why Garland took 20 extra months to take action when a Republican had documents like this?", ">\n\nMerrick Garland took two years to appoint a special counsel to Trump but he took 1 week to appoint a special counsel to Biden. Is he trying to please the Republican house or someone powerful is really trying hard that Biden don't run again. What an idiotic decision. He is giving fuel to republicans. Any normal person would understand that Biden administration is co-operating with the appropriate authority to resolve this matter. I am so disappointed at Merrick Garland.", ">\n\nSo the day after trump announced he was running he appointed a special counsel. The day after Biden (presumptive candidate) is being investigated, appoint a special counsel.... seems consistent.", ">\n\nI understand the frustration, however, what's the alternative choice? \nDemocrats should let immoral and unethical actions of their members? \nDoesn't it sound ridiculous to suggest being lawful and ethical is losing?\nWhat the democrats need to do is clean up their dependence on big donor moneys by making significant changes to the laws surrounding political campaigns. \nWhen Republican's don't vote for campaign reform, they should be examined carefully by journalists, then shamed for any corruption, and arrested for any crimes." ]

[ "Do a complete investigation, gather the evidence, follow all procedures and the law, seek justice without fear or favor no matter who is involved. Figure this mess out.", ">\n\nFully agree - and I'd actually like the investigation to be concluded swiftly since the ones being investigated will likely be 100% cooperative. It's not like DoJ will have to be dealing with full on liars and criminals which takes forever to find the answers.", ">\n\nI 100% agree that there ought to be a reasonable investigation into this but I do have to wonder if any of this matters at all given that Biden is currently the president and therefore has not only the right to have classified information but also the ability to declassify that information.\nNot trying to make excuses for the oversight (or lack thereof) of classified documents, but it seems to me as though this requires an investigation into how classified documents are handled during and after individuals have been given such status and after said status has lapsed.\nLet's be perfectly honest, if they had taken different actions on the first set of documents, we likely wouldn't even know about this because there was nobody searching for them.\nHad Biden and his lawyers actually been seriously corrupt, they could easily have disposed of them in a fireplace or down a toilet and no one would know the better.\nThe fact that they brought this directly to the attention of the proper authorities is at least proof that they do have respect for the rule of law and are willing to except the consequences, even if it is going to be used to make political hay while the sun shines.\nThat said, this likely has huge implications for executive privilege, especially to the extent that the former president argued he had. I personally do not have a problem with the minister of th Office of the President being able to be held accountable for their actions but only if it is equally applied across the board and not just something that we will have to deal with when presidents from the Democratic party are being scrutinized.", ">\n\n\nhas not only the right to have classified information but also the ability to declassify that information.\n\nHe does. But apparently these docs were from his Vice Presidency under Obama. So, it's a bit uncertain.\nAnd it really undermines at least one of the central charges you could have lodged against Trump, that everyone that is able to access classified documents has a substantive responsibility to make sure they are handled appropriately. The \"oh, well, we had to leave in a hurry and things just got mixed up\" arguments Trump could have made before would have had little merit - especially when you consider previous historic cases where even a single doc mishandled ended up with someone in jail.\nBut now Trump will be able to dilute that charge completely. He's still fucked on obstruction and everything else (hopefully).", ">\n\nClassified != Compartmentalized, Top Secret, etc.", ">\n\nI agree with you, but I was recently informed that sources say some of these classified documents were classified Top Secret.\nIt does appear as though ABC is confirming that sources are saying that some of these were top secret documents.\n\nSources also told ABC News that the original batch of about 10 documents found in November contains classified vice-presidential briefing papers about foreign countries, some of which were marked top secret.\n\nAnd CNN is not even using the journalistic term source, going so far as to assert that some of these documents were top secret.\n\nSome of the classified documents were “top secret,” the highest level. They were found in three or four boxes that also contained unclassified papers that fall under the Presidential Records Act, CNN has reported.\n\nIf we are going to maintain Integrity about the treatment of top secret classified documents, it is important to hold both sides accountable for their retention of documents.\nThank goodness that Biden's lawyers were up front with the FBI and NARA rather than lying about the retention of documents and obstructing an investigation.\nI really hope that Biden doesn't try to use the executive privilege argument to keep himself from investigation, but this is likely going to be a permanent stain on his reputation and definitely opens up the presidential field in the Democratic Party for 2024.", ">\n\nWhy would this be a permanent stain on Biden’s reputation?", ">\n\nBecause it will 100% be used along with whataboutism to suggest that Biden was going after Trump for the same thing that he was caught doing, regardless of the fact that Biden was not responsible for the investigation into Trump's documents has not been outspoken about the retention of documents, subsequent Lies by his lawyers, and obstruction.\nI'm not saying that it is going to be fair, or even rational but it is going to cause a stain and that will be used to pillory him.", ">\n\nSo in essence, this is only going to be a stain in the minds of people who are rather brainless to begin with….gotcha", ">\n\nIts a stain because it's political ammunition for the other side, not because you or I see it for the opportunitistically timed political assault that it seems to be. In modern politics, being on the defensive is the same as losing. Hillary Clinton's email fiasco likely contributed to the 2016 election results even though she wasn't indicted for a crime.\nThe people on the other side of the political spectrum who would consider this whole fiasco a stain on Biden AREN'T brainless, they're heavily propogandized, and they DO vote. This whole thing will be used to justify any or all of Trump's conduct that should be immediately disqualifying. Expect this to be split-screened with all of Trump's legal woes.\nHopefully Trump won't make it to the 2024 Election season as a viable candidate. If Trump does make it, Trump will use this against Biden. If Trump loses out to someone like DeSantis, there will be a concerted effort to crucify Biden with it.", ">\n\nMy favorite part of this:\nNo raging tweets from the president making up executive powers. Accusing people of planting evidence and arguing about a deep state conspiracy against him.", ">\n\nI’d be hilarious if he copy pasted one of trumps tweets and ended it with JK I’m not a raving lunatic in a middle of a tantrum.", ">\n\nThat would be some great dark Brandon shit.", ">\n\nI am all for a special counsel being appointed. But a Trump appointee feels like an attempt by Garland to bend over backwards to show just how apolitical he is. If he wanted to reach across the aisle, he couldn’t find a Bush appointee rather than someone appointed by a man who literally tried to upend the Republic and is known for appointing partisan hacks?", ">\n\nThis is how Garland has been acting since appointed. It’s like he’s so terrified of being perceived as biased against repubs that he instead acts biased against dems. He has truly been a failure at AG.. even more of a letdown than Mueller", ">\n\nWell, Garland is a conservative….. people think that he must be left wing because Obama nominated him for SCOTUS. NOPE! - he’s right wing and Obama was throwing the GOP a bone. The GOP just hated Obama so fucking much they slapped down a nominee that aligned with them.", ">\n\nTrue, Biden should have appointed someone else", ">\n\nOnly took a year and a half to appoint one for Trump. Also what about that DOJ policy about not investigating and prosecuting a sitting president which protected the former guy for, what, six years now?", ">\n\nGarland is not our friend.", ">\n\nWho’s friend, exactly? What does friendship have to do with accountability to rules and laws?\nAre you suggesting the DOJ should be aligned and friendly with one particular party or another and so they don’t have to follow rules and laws we expect others to comply with?", ">\n\nGarland is not a friend to justice.\nWhy has Trump not been indicted yet? What's the confusion?", ">\n\n\nWhy has Trump not been indicted yet?\n\nwhy would you expect him to have been? the investigation isn't over yet", ">\n\nit explains why they weren't indicted in the article", ">\n\nSome anonymous lawyer being quoted by CNN is not a definitive explanation at all. It's hearsay and well-meaning bullshit. But when the DOJ was asked? \"A spokesperson for the Department of Justice declined to comment.\" But if you do believe that anonymous source, do you really think they have executive privilege, as your source says? How TF do \"advisors\" get privilege?", ">\n\nthey worked in the White House", ">\n\nBad enough that everyone bought that crap, \"The president is immune to criminal prosecution and subpoenas.\" But now we're going to extend it to anyone who worked in the White House?! Holy cow you can't possibly believe that's a good idea.", ">\n\nAs. We. Would. Expect. 🤷‍♂️ \nCan't wait until Biden whines, makes excuses, tries to get a special master, claims that they where declassifi...... Oh wait. Dems don't do any of that.", ">\n\nIt doesn’t even matter cause republicans don’t care about mishandling classified document- oh wait…now they do.", ">\n\nAs a Democrat I am pretty pissed off at Biden for this, but I would be willing to bet he didn't know the documents were there. \nThat said, I am a strong believer in people being punished for breaking the law, even if they are on my \"team.\"\nIf he broke the law, punish him. \nJust make sure that that miserable, racist orange thing that yells all the time gets his as well.\nThis is the only way to have nice things.", ">\n\nBiden isn't asking for a special grand master or looking for a favorable court... weird.", ">\n\nLove how it took 2 years to do this for trump, and he ain't even president, 2 days for Biden and he is president. \nTo be clear, I'm not saying there shouldn't be an investigation, I'm saying Garland is showing his true colors pretty strongly with the disparity.\nEdit: I'm muting this thread, not trying to get banned for cussing some fool out again. Have a good night y'all.", ">\n\nThe difference will always be that most democrats are just fine with an investigation. Because they care about good governance instead of personality cults.", ">\n\nYeah, it's like Goofus and Gallant. Except Goofus wins every other election and beats your head in with a bat.", ">\n\nWeird how Garland can move with lightning speed when it’s a cover-your-ass political move. Lightning speed.", ">\n\nFucking ridiculous the kid-gloves treatment that Trump gets.", ">\n\nI feel like Trump is about to get his shit kicked in here by Jack Smith in about a month or so when the indictments start coming", ">\n\nI feel like someone has said this every month for the last 6 years. The point is, Trump is untouchable. His angry mob would never succeed in overthrowing the government, but they would likely affect quarterly profits.", ">\n\nThis right here. Gotta keep the wolves fed or they might bite you. \nDomestic Terrorism discourages commerce. They’re fucking cowards.", ">\n\nHow's that Trump indictment coming?", ">\n\nThis is all I'm concerned about. Biden's situation I'm sure will work itself out, but Trump has most certainly committed crimes well beyond and before simply having classified documents. I'm not even saying Biden hasn't broken the law, and he should be dealt with accordingly, but Trump has been a national security hazard and criminal since long before classified documents were found and obstruction was clearly committed to shield them, and this Biden situation should, in no way, get in the way of that case, which seems long overdue.", ">\n\nWeird. I thought the DOJ didn’t want to investigate presidents.", ">\n\nWeird, I recall the DOJ investigating Trump while he was president. And Clinton.", ">\n\nI'm not confused about it. There's no policy against investigating presidents, which is why the numerous investigations into recent sitting presidents happened and were not against any policy. There is a policy against indicting them, though that's not legally binding in any way, just a stated approach that the Justice dept. has outlined in the past.", ">\n\nThe difference between Republicans and Dems is on display again. \nNo cults, no obstructing. Let the legal system do its thing.", ">\n\nSo... he can move fast??", ">\n\nThis proves that Garland is exquisitely sensitive to (Republican) public opinion, which proves to me that he will never indict Trump.", ">\n\nHe has stated many times that no person is above the law. This proves that he's practices what he preaches.", ">\n\nDoes it though? He holds D’s to the rule of law, but drags his feet with R’s.. all to try to seem impartial. He is not holding everyone to the same standard.", ">\n\nthis is a good move despite what wackos in this sub will say. the alternative would be jim jordan and the house intelligence committee running crazy conspiracy theories over this investigation. \nwith this special counsel it will at least be an actual legitimate investigation that will in all likelihood tamper the political effects for biden, as well as create a more legitimate nonpartisan line between this and the trump situation. it won't matter for republicans anyway, but the appearance of impropriety is good!\nobviously there's some hiccup in whatever processes for classified documents there are if they can be mixed in with other documents, put in places they aren't supposed to be, forgotten about, etc. and perhaps that can come to light as a result of both of these investigations and those processes can be revised to address these issues, whether intentionally mishandled or mishandled due to ignorance/an accident.", ">\n\n\nthe alternative would be jim jordan and the house intelligence committee running crazy conspiracy theories over this investigation. \n\ni don't think is an \"either or\" kind of situation. you'll still get jim's hot take of the day once they set up the committee.", ">\n\nsure but as far as document requests and the like it could make it more complicated for the house to go as apeshit as they would otherwise", ">\n\nNo it won't. Because they are not grounded in reality. Just watch.", ">\n\ni mean the law still exists lol", ">\n\nDoes it, though?", ">\n\nyes\ndo you think jim jordan can just walk over to DOJ and grab a bunch of documents and tell the DOJ to fuck off?", ">\n\nNo. But he can tell the House to fuck off when they subpoena him. And that subpoena is referred to the DOJ for enforcement, Merrick Garland can sit on it for weeks and then eventually decline to prosecute. Just like it happened with Meadows.", ">\n\nSure, sounds reasonable. Seems pretty likely somebody committed a crime. \nRemind me again why Garland took 20 extra months to take action when a Republican had documents like this?", ">\n\nMerrick Garland took two years to appoint a special counsel to Trump but he took 1 week to appoint a special counsel to Biden. Is he trying to please the Republican house or someone powerful is really trying hard that Biden don't run again. What an idiotic decision. He is giving fuel to republicans. Any normal person would understand that Biden administration is co-operating with the appropriate authority to resolve this matter. I am so disappointed at Merrick Garland.", ">\n\nSo the day after trump announced he was running he appointed a special counsel. The day after Biden (presumptive candidate) is being investigated, appoint a special counsel.... seems consistent.", ">\n\nI understand the frustration, however, what's the alternative choice? \nDemocrats should let immoral and unethical actions of their members? \nDoesn't it sound ridiculous to suggest being lawful and ethical is losing?\nWhat the democrats need to do is clean up their dependence on big donor moneys by making significant changes to the laws surrounding political campaigns. \nWhen Republican's don't vote for campaign reform, they should be examined carefully by journalists, then shamed for any corruption, and arrested for any crimes.", ">\n\nI like this comment; there is a core of truth and clearheaded observation within that would likely solve most things political, if we can just convince the first national politician to unlatch from the corporate money tit. Someone has to be the wind-dummy, the maverick, and it would certainly be someone with enough independent wealth to tell the corporations and lobbyists to kick rocks. Hell, if even the congressional leadership adopted this tactic, media pressure would steer the others. \nSounds very cool. Who’s first?" ]

[ "Do a complete investigation, gather the evidence, follow all procedures and the law, seek justice without fear or favor no matter who is involved. Figure this mess out.", ">\n\nFully agree - and I'd actually like the investigation to be concluded swiftly since the ones being investigated will likely be 100% cooperative. It's not like DoJ will have to be dealing with full on liars and criminals which takes forever to find the answers.", ">\n\nI 100% agree that there ought to be a reasonable investigation into this but I do have to wonder if any of this matters at all given that Biden is currently the president and therefore has not only the right to have classified information but also the ability to declassify that information.\nNot trying to make excuses for the oversight (or lack thereof) of classified documents, but it seems to me as though this requires an investigation into how classified documents are handled during and after individuals have been given such status and after said status has lapsed.\nLet's be perfectly honest, if they had taken different actions on the first set of documents, we likely wouldn't even know about this because there was nobody searching for them.\nHad Biden and his lawyers actually been seriously corrupt, they could easily have disposed of them in a fireplace or down a toilet and no one would know the better.\nThe fact that they brought this directly to the attention of the proper authorities is at least proof that they do have respect for the rule of law and are willing to except the consequences, even if it is going to be used to make political hay while the sun shines.\nThat said, this likely has huge implications for executive privilege, especially to the extent that the former president argued he had. I personally do not have a problem with the minister of th Office of the President being able to be held accountable for their actions but only if it is equally applied across the board and not just something that we will have to deal with when presidents from the Democratic party are being scrutinized.", ">\n\n\nhas not only the right to have classified information but also the ability to declassify that information.\n\nHe does. But apparently these docs were from his Vice Presidency under Obama. So, it's a bit uncertain.\nAnd it really undermines at least one of the central charges you could have lodged against Trump, that everyone that is able to access classified documents has a substantive responsibility to make sure they are handled appropriately. The \"oh, well, we had to leave in a hurry and things just got mixed up\" arguments Trump could have made before would have had little merit - especially when you consider previous historic cases where even a single doc mishandled ended up with someone in jail.\nBut now Trump will be able to dilute that charge completely. He's still fucked on obstruction and everything else (hopefully).", ">\n\nClassified != Compartmentalized, Top Secret, etc.", ">\n\nI agree with you, but I was recently informed that sources say some of these classified documents were classified Top Secret.\nIt does appear as though ABC is confirming that sources are saying that some of these were top secret documents.\n\nSources also told ABC News that the original batch of about 10 documents found in November contains classified vice-presidential briefing papers about foreign countries, some of which were marked top secret.\n\nAnd CNN is not even using the journalistic term source, going so far as to assert that some of these documents were top secret.\n\nSome of the classified documents were “top secret,” the highest level. They were found in three or four boxes that also contained unclassified papers that fall under the Presidential Records Act, CNN has reported.\n\nIf we are going to maintain Integrity about the treatment of top secret classified documents, it is important to hold both sides accountable for their retention of documents.\nThank goodness that Biden's lawyers were up front with the FBI and NARA rather than lying about the retention of documents and obstructing an investigation.\nI really hope that Biden doesn't try to use the executive privilege argument to keep himself from investigation, but this is likely going to be a permanent stain on his reputation and definitely opens up the presidential field in the Democratic Party for 2024.", ">\n\nWhy would this be a permanent stain on Biden’s reputation?", ">\n\nBecause it will 100% be used along with whataboutism to suggest that Biden was going after Trump for the same thing that he was caught doing, regardless of the fact that Biden was not responsible for the investigation into Trump's documents has not been outspoken about the retention of documents, subsequent Lies by his lawyers, and obstruction.\nI'm not saying that it is going to be fair, or even rational but it is going to cause a stain and that will be used to pillory him.", ">\n\nSo in essence, this is only going to be a stain in the minds of people who are rather brainless to begin with….gotcha", ">\n\nIts a stain because it's political ammunition for the other side, not because you or I see it for the opportunitistically timed political assault that it seems to be. In modern politics, being on the defensive is the same as losing. Hillary Clinton's email fiasco likely contributed to the 2016 election results even though she wasn't indicted for a crime.\nThe people on the other side of the political spectrum who would consider this whole fiasco a stain on Biden AREN'T brainless, they're heavily propogandized, and they DO vote. This whole thing will be used to justify any or all of Trump's conduct that should be immediately disqualifying. Expect this to be split-screened with all of Trump's legal woes.\nHopefully Trump won't make it to the 2024 Election season as a viable candidate. If Trump does make it, Trump will use this against Biden. If Trump loses out to someone like DeSantis, there will be a concerted effort to crucify Biden with it.", ">\n\nMy favorite part of this:\nNo raging tweets from the president making up executive powers. Accusing people of planting evidence and arguing about a deep state conspiracy against him.", ">\n\nI’d be hilarious if he copy pasted one of trumps tweets and ended it with JK I’m not a raving lunatic in a middle of a tantrum.", ">\n\nThat would be some great dark Brandon shit.", ">\n\nI am all for a special counsel being appointed. But a Trump appointee feels like an attempt by Garland to bend over backwards to show just how apolitical he is. If he wanted to reach across the aisle, he couldn’t find a Bush appointee rather than someone appointed by a man who literally tried to upend the Republic and is known for appointing partisan hacks?", ">\n\nThis is how Garland has been acting since appointed. It’s like he’s so terrified of being perceived as biased against repubs that he instead acts biased against dems. He has truly been a failure at AG.. even more of a letdown than Mueller", ">\n\nWell, Garland is a conservative….. people think that he must be left wing because Obama nominated him for SCOTUS. NOPE! - he’s right wing and Obama was throwing the GOP a bone. The GOP just hated Obama so fucking much they slapped down a nominee that aligned with them.", ">\n\nTrue, Biden should have appointed someone else", ">\n\nOnly took a year and a half to appoint one for Trump. Also what about that DOJ policy about not investigating and prosecuting a sitting president which protected the former guy for, what, six years now?", ">\n\nGarland is not our friend.", ">\n\nWho’s friend, exactly? What does friendship have to do with accountability to rules and laws?\nAre you suggesting the DOJ should be aligned and friendly with one particular party or another and so they don’t have to follow rules and laws we expect others to comply with?", ">\n\nGarland is not a friend to justice.\nWhy has Trump not been indicted yet? What's the confusion?", ">\n\n\nWhy has Trump not been indicted yet?\n\nwhy would you expect him to have been? the investigation isn't over yet", ">\n\nit explains why they weren't indicted in the article", ">\n\nSome anonymous lawyer being quoted by CNN is not a definitive explanation at all. It's hearsay and well-meaning bullshit. But when the DOJ was asked? \"A spokesperson for the Department of Justice declined to comment.\" But if you do believe that anonymous source, do you really think they have executive privilege, as your source says? How TF do \"advisors\" get privilege?", ">\n\nthey worked in the White House", ">\n\nBad enough that everyone bought that crap, \"The president is immune to criminal prosecution and subpoenas.\" But now we're going to extend it to anyone who worked in the White House?! Holy cow you can't possibly believe that's a good idea.", ">\n\nAs. We. Would. Expect. 🤷‍♂️ \nCan't wait until Biden whines, makes excuses, tries to get a special master, claims that they where declassifi...... Oh wait. Dems don't do any of that.", ">\n\nIt doesn’t even matter cause republicans don’t care about mishandling classified document- oh wait…now they do.", ">\n\nAs a Democrat I am pretty pissed off at Biden for this, but I would be willing to bet he didn't know the documents were there. \nThat said, I am a strong believer in people being punished for breaking the law, even if they are on my \"team.\"\nIf he broke the law, punish him. \nJust make sure that that miserable, racist orange thing that yells all the time gets his as well.\nThis is the only way to have nice things.", ">\n\nBiden isn't asking for a special grand master or looking for a favorable court... weird.", ">\n\nLove how it took 2 years to do this for trump, and he ain't even president, 2 days for Biden and he is president. \nTo be clear, I'm not saying there shouldn't be an investigation, I'm saying Garland is showing his true colors pretty strongly with the disparity.\nEdit: I'm muting this thread, not trying to get banned for cussing some fool out again. Have a good night y'all.", ">\n\nThe difference will always be that most democrats are just fine with an investigation. Because they care about good governance instead of personality cults.", ">\n\nYeah, it's like Goofus and Gallant. Except Goofus wins every other election and beats your head in with a bat.", ">\n\nWeird how Garland can move with lightning speed when it’s a cover-your-ass political move. Lightning speed.", ">\n\nFucking ridiculous the kid-gloves treatment that Trump gets.", ">\n\nI feel like Trump is about to get his shit kicked in here by Jack Smith in about a month or so when the indictments start coming", ">\n\nI feel like someone has said this every month for the last 6 years. The point is, Trump is untouchable. His angry mob would never succeed in overthrowing the government, but they would likely affect quarterly profits.", ">\n\nThis right here. Gotta keep the wolves fed or they might bite you. \nDomestic Terrorism discourages commerce. They’re fucking cowards.", ">\n\nHow's that Trump indictment coming?", ">\n\nThis is all I'm concerned about. Biden's situation I'm sure will work itself out, but Trump has most certainly committed crimes well beyond and before simply having classified documents. I'm not even saying Biden hasn't broken the law, and he should be dealt with accordingly, but Trump has been a national security hazard and criminal since long before classified documents were found and obstruction was clearly committed to shield them, and this Biden situation should, in no way, get in the way of that case, which seems long overdue.", ">\n\nWeird. I thought the DOJ didn’t want to investigate presidents.", ">\n\nWeird, I recall the DOJ investigating Trump while he was president. And Clinton.", ">\n\nI'm not confused about it. There's no policy against investigating presidents, which is why the numerous investigations into recent sitting presidents happened and were not against any policy. There is a policy against indicting them, though that's not legally binding in any way, just a stated approach that the Justice dept. has outlined in the past.", ">\n\nThe difference between Republicans and Dems is on display again. \nNo cults, no obstructing. Let the legal system do its thing.", ">\n\nSo... he can move fast??", ">\n\nThis proves that Garland is exquisitely sensitive to (Republican) public opinion, which proves to me that he will never indict Trump.", ">\n\nHe has stated many times that no person is above the law. This proves that he's practices what he preaches.", ">\n\nDoes it though? He holds D’s to the rule of law, but drags his feet with R’s.. all to try to seem impartial. He is not holding everyone to the same standard.", ">\n\nthis is a good move despite what wackos in this sub will say. the alternative would be jim jordan and the house intelligence committee running crazy conspiracy theories over this investigation. \nwith this special counsel it will at least be an actual legitimate investigation that will in all likelihood tamper the political effects for biden, as well as create a more legitimate nonpartisan line between this and the trump situation. it won't matter for republicans anyway, but the appearance of impropriety is good!\nobviously there's some hiccup in whatever processes for classified documents there are if they can be mixed in with other documents, put in places they aren't supposed to be, forgotten about, etc. and perhaps that can come to light as a result of both of these investigations and those processes can be revised to address these issues, whether intentionally mishandled or mishandled due to ignorance/an accident.", ">\n\n\nthe alternative would be jim jordan and the house intelligence committee running crazy conspiracy theories over this investigation. \n\ni don't think is an \"either or\" kind of situation. you'll still get jim's hot take of the day once they set up the committee.", ">\n\nsure but as far as document requests and the like it could make it more complicated for the house to go as apeshit as they would otherwise", ">\n\nNo it won't. Because they are not grounded in reality. Just watch.", ">\n\ni mean the law still exists lol", ">\n\nDoes it, though?", ">\n\nyes\ndo you think jim jordan can just walk over to DOJ and grab a bunch of documents and tell the DOJ to fuck off?", ">\n\nNo. But he can tell the House to fuck off when they subpoena him. And that subpoena is referred to the DOJ for enforcement, Merrick Garland can sit on it for weeks and then eventually decline to prosecute. Just like it happened with Meadows.", ">\n\nSure, sounds reasonable. Seems pretty likely somebody committed a crime. \nRemind me again why Garland took 20 extra months to take action when a Republican had documents like this?", ">\n\nMerrick Garland took two years to appoint a special counsel to Trump but he took 1 week to appoint a special counsel to Biden. Is he trying to please the Republican house or someone powerful is really trying hard that Biden don't run again. What an idiotic decision. He is giving fuel to republicans. Any normal person would understand that Biden administration is co-operating with the appropriate authority to resolve this matter. I am so disappointed at Merrick Garland.", ">\n\nSo the day after trump announced he was running he appointed a special counsel. The day after Biden (presumptive candidate) is being investigated, appoint a special counsel.... seems consistent.", ">\n\nI understand the frustration, however, what's the alternative choice? \nDemocrats should let immoral and unethical actions of their members? \nDoesn't it sound ridiculous to suggest being lawful and ethical is losing?\nWhat the democrats need to do is clean up their dependence on big donor moneys by making significant changes to the laws surrounding political campaigns. \nWhen Republican's don't vote for campaign reform, they should be examined carefully by journalists, then shamed for any corruption, and arrested for any crimes.", ">\n\nI like this comment; there is a core of truth and clearheaded observation within that would likely solve most things political, if we can just convince the first national politician to unlatch from the corporate money tit. Someone has to be the wind-dummy, the maverick, and it would certainly be someone with enough independent wealth to tell the corporations and lobbyists to kick rocks. Hell, if even the congressional leadership adopted this tactic, media pressure would steer the others. \nSounds very cool. Who’s first?", ">\n\nI don't know why everyone is making such a big deal about this. Obama declassified all of these documents on his last day in office. He didn't tell anyone, but since he thought it, they are declassified. You can't prove me wrong." ]

[ "Do a complete investigation, gather the evidence, follow all procedures and the law, seek justice without fear or favor no matter who is involved. Figure this mess out.", ">\n\nFully agree - and I'd actually like the investigation to be concluded swiftly since the ones being investigated will likely be 100% cooperative. It's not like DoJ will have to be dealing with full on liars and criminals which takes forever to find the answers.", ">\n\nI 100% agree that there ought to be a reasonable investigation into this but I do have to wonder if any of this matters at all given that Biden is currently the president and therefore has not only the right to have classified information but also the ability to declassify that information.\nNot trying to make excuses for the oversight (or lack thereof) of classified documents, but it seems to me as though this requires an investigation into how classified documents are handled during and after individuals have been given such status and after said status has lapsed.\nLet's be perfectly honest, if they had taken different actions on the first set of documents, we likely wouldn't even know about this because there was nobody searching for them.\nHad Biden and his lawyers actually been seriously corrupt, they could easily have disposed of them in a fireplace or down a toilet and no one would know the better.\nThe fact that they brought this directly to the attention of the proper authorities is at least proof that they do have respect for the rule of law and are willing to except the consequences, even if it is going to be used to make political hay while the sun shines.\nThat said, this likely has huge implications for executive privilege, especially to the extent that the former president argued he had. I personally do not have a problem with the minister of th Office of the President being able to be held accountable for their actions but only if it is equally applied across the board and not just something that we will have to deal with when presidents from the Democratic party are being scrutinized.", ">\n\n\nhas not only the right to have classified information but also the ability to declassify that information.\n\nHe does. But apparently these docs were from his Vice Presidency under Obama. So, it's a bit uncertain.\nAnd it really undermines at least one of the central charges you could have lodged against Trump, that everyone that is able to access classified documents has a substantive responsibility to make sure they are handled appropriately. The \"oh, well, we had to leave in a hurry and things just got mixed up\" arguments Trump could have made before would have had little merit - especially when you consider previous historic cases where even a single doc mishandled ended up with someone in jail.\nBut now Trump will be able to dilute that charge completely. He's still fucked on obstruction and everything else (hopefully).", ">\n\nClassified != Compartmentalized, Top Secret, etc.", ">\n\nI agree with you, but I was recently informed that sources say some of these classified documents were classified Top Secret.\nIt does appear as though ABC is confirming that sources are saying that some of these were top secret documents.\n\nSources also told ABC News that the original batch of about 10 documents found in November contains classified vice-presidential briefing papers about foreign countries, some of which were marked top secret.\n\nAnd CNN is not even using the journalistic term source, going so far as to assert that some of these documents were top secret.\n\nSome of the classified documents were “top secret,” the highest level. They were found in three or four boxes that also contained unclassified papers that fall under the Presidential Records Act, CNN has reported.\n\nIf we are going to maintain Integrity about the treatment of top secret classified documents, it is important to hold both sides accountable for their retention of documents.\nThank goodness that Biden's lawyers were up front with the FBI and NARA rather than lying about the retention of documents and obstructing an investigation.\nI really hope that Biden doesn't try to use the executive privilege argument to keep himself from investigation, but this is likely going to be a permanent stain on his reputation and definitely opens up the presidential field in the Democratic Party for 2024.", ">\n\nWhy would this be a permanent stain on Biden’s reputation?", ">\n\nBecause it will 100% be used along with whataboutism to suggest that Biden was going after Trump for the same thing that he was caught doing, regardless of the fact that Biden was not responsible for the investigation into Trump's documents has not been outspoken about the retention of documents, subsequent Lies by his lawyers, and obstruction.\nI'm not saying that it is going to be fair, or even rational but it is going to cause a stain and that will be used to pillory him.", ">\n\nSo in essence, this is only going to be a stain in the minds of people who are rather brainless to begin with….gotcha", ">\n\nIts a stain because it's political ammunition for the other side, not because you or I see it for the opportunitistically timed political assault that it seems to be. In modern politics, being on the defensive is the same as losing. Hillary Clinton's email fiasco likely contributed to the 2016 election results even though she wasn't indicted for a crime.\nThe people on the other side of the political spectrum who would consider this whole fiasco a stain on Biden AREN'T brainless, they're heavily propogandized, and they DO vote. This whole thing will be used to justify any or all of Trump's conduct that should be immediately disqualifying. Expect this to be split-screened with all of Trump's legal woes.\nHopefully Trump won't make it to the 2024 Election season as a viable candidate. If Trump does make it, Trump will use this against Biden. If Trump loses out to someone like DeSantis, there will be a concerted effort to crucify Biden with it.", ">\n\nMy favorite part of this:\nNo raging tweets from the president making up executive powers. Accusing people of planting evidence and arguing about a deep state conspiracy against him.", ">\n\nI’d be hilarious if he copy pasted one of trumps tweets and ended it with JK I’m not a raving lunatic in a middle of a tantrum.", ">\n\nThat would be some great dark Brandon shit.", ">\n\nI am all for a special counsel being appointed. But a Trump appointee feels like an attempt by Garland to bend over backwards to show just how apolitical he is. If he wanted to reach across the aisle, he couldn’t find a Bush appointee rather than someone appointed by a man who literally tried to upend the Republic and is known for appointing partisan hacks?", ">\n\nThis is how Garland has been acting since appointed. It’s like he’s so terrified of being perceived as biased against repubs that he instead acts biased against dems. He has truly been a failure at AG.. even more of a letdown than Mueller", ">\n\nWell, Garland is a conservative….. people think that he must be left wing because Obama nominated him for SCOTUS. NOPE! - he’s right wing and Obama was throwing the GOP a bone. The GOP just hated Obama so fucking much they slapped down a nominee that aligned with them.", ">\n\nTrue, Biden should have appointed someone else", ">\n\nOnly took a year and a half to appoint one for Trump. Also what about that DOJ policy about not investigating and prosecuting a sitting president which protected the former guy for, what, six years now?", ">\n\nGarland is not our friend.", ">\n\nWho’s friend, exactly? What does friendship have to do with accountability to rules and laws?\nAre you suggesting the DOJ should be aligned and friendly with one particular party or another and so they don’t have to follow rules and laws we expect others to comply with?", ">\n\nGarland is not a friend to justice.\nWhy has Trump not been indicted yet? What's the confusion?", ">\n\n\nWhy has Trump not been indicted yet?\n\nwhy would you expect him to have been? the investigation isn't over yet", ">\n\nit explains why they weren't indicted in the article", ">\n\nSome anonymous lawyer being quoted by CNN is not a definitive explanation at all. It's hearsay and well-meaning bullshit. But when the DOJ was asked? \"A spokesperson for the Department of Justice declined to comment.\" But if you do believe that anonymous source, do you really think they have executive privilege, as your source says? How TF do \"advisors\" get privilege?", ">\n\nthey worked in the White House", ">\n\nBad enough that everyone bought that crap, \"The president is immune to criminal prosecution and subpoenas.\" But now we're going to extend it to anyone who worked in the White House?! Holy cow you can't possibly believe that's a good idea.", ">\n\nAs. We. Would. Expect. 🤷‍♂️ \nCan't wait until Biden whines, makes excuses, tries to get a special master, claims that they where declassifi...... Oh wait. Dems don't do any of that.", ">\n\nIt doesn’t even matter cause republicans don’t care about mishandling classified document- oh wait…now they do.", ">\n\nAs a Democrat I am pretty pissed off at Biden for this, but I would be willing to bet he didn't know the documents were there. \nThat said, I am a strong believer in people being punished for breaking the law, even if they are on my \"team.\"\nIf he broke the law, punish him. \nJust make sure that that miserable, racist orange thing that yells all the time gets his as well.\nThis is the only way to have nice things.", ">\n\nBiden isn't asking for a special grand master or looking for a favorable court... weird.", ">\n\nLove how it took 2 years to do this for trump, and he ain't even president, 2 days for Biden and he is president. \nTo be clear, I'm not saying there shouldn't be an investigation, I'm saying Garland is showing his true colors pretty strongly with the disparity.\nEdit: I'm muting this thread, not trying to get banned for cussing some fool out again. Have a good night y'all.", ">\n\nThe difference will always be that most democrats are just fine with an investigation. Because they care about good governance instead of personality cults.", ">\n\nYeah, it's like Goofus and Gallant. Except Goofus wins every other election and beats your head in with a bat.", ">\n\nWeird how Garland can move with lightning speed when it’s a cover-your-ass political move. Lightning speed.", ">\n\nFucking ridiculous the kid-gloves treatment that Trump gets.", ">\n\nI feel like Trump is about to get his shit kicked in here by Jack Smith in about a month or so when the indictments start coming", ">\n\nI feel like someone has said this every month for the last 6 years. The point is, Trump is untouchable. His angry mob would never succeed in overthrowing the government, but they would likely affect quarterly profits.", ">\n\nThis right here. Gotta keep the wolves fed or they might bite you. \nDomestic Terrorism discourages commerce. They’re fucking cowards.", ">\n\nHow's that Trump indictment coming?", ">\n\nThis is all I'm concerned about. Biden's situation I'm sure will work itself out, but Trump has most certainly committed crimes well beyond and before simply having classified documents. I'm not even saying Biden hasn't broken the law, and he should be dealt with accordingly, but Trump has been a national security hazard and criminal since long before classified documents were found and obstruction was clearly committed to shield them, and this Biden situation should, in no way, get in the way of that case, which seems long overdue.", ">\n\nWeird. I thought the DOJ didn’t want to investigate presidents.", ">\n\nWeird, I recall the DOJ investigating Trump while he was president. And Clinton.", ">\n\nI'm not confused about it. There's no policy against investigating presidents, which is why the numerous investigations into recent sitting presidents happened and were not against any policy. There is a policy against indicting them, though that's not legally binding in any way, just a stated approach that the Justice dept. has outlined in the past.", ">\n\nThe difference between Republicans and Dems is on display again. \nNo cults, no obstructing. Let the legal system do its thing.", ">\n\nSo... he can move fast??", ">\n\nThis proves that Garland is exquisitely sensitive to (Republican) public opinion, which proves to me that he will never indict Trump.", ">\n\nHe has stated many times that no person is above the law. This proves that he's practices what he preaches.", ">\n\nDoes it though? He holds D’s to the rule of law, but drags his feet with R’s.. all to try to seem impartial. He is not holding everyone to the same standard.", ">\n\nthis is a good move despite what wackos in this sub will say. the alternative would be jim jordan and the house intelligence committee running crazy conspiracy theories over this investigation. \nwith this special counsel it will at least be an actual legitimate investigation that will in all likelihood tamper the political effects for biden, as well as create a more legitimate nonpartisan line between this and the trump situation. it won't matter for republicans anyway, but the appearance of impropriety is good!\nobviously there's some hiccup in whatever processes for classified documents there are if they can be mixed in with other documents, put in places they aren't supposed to be, forgotten about, etc. and perhaps that can come to light as a result of both of these investigations and those processes can be revised to address these issues, whether intentionally mishandled or mishandled due to ignorance/an accident.", ">\n\n\nthe alternative would be jim jordan and the house intelligence committee running crazy conspiracy theories over this investigation. \n\ni don't think is an \"either or\" kind of situation. you'll still get jim's hot take of the day once they set up the committee.", ">\n\nsure but as far as document requests and the like it could make it more complicated for the house to go as apeshit as they would otherwise", ">\n\nNo it won't. Because they are not grounded in reality. Just watch.", ">\n\ni mean the law still exists lol", ">\n\nDoes it, though?", ">\n\nyes\ndo you think jim jordan can just walk over to DOJ and grab a bunch of documents and tell the DOJ to fuck off?", ">\n\nNo. But he can tell the House to fuck off when they subpoena him. And that subpoena is referred to the DOJ for enforcement, Merrick Garland can sit on it for weeks and then eventually decline to prosecute. Just like it happened with Meadows.", ">\n\nSure, sounds reasonable. Seems pretty likely somebody committed a crime. \nRemind me again why Garland took 20 extra months to take action when a Republican had documents like this?", ">\n\nMerrick Garland took two years to appoint a special counsel to Trump but he took 1 week to appoint a special counsel to Biden. Is he trying to please the Republican house or someone powerful is really trying hard that Biden don't run again. What an idiotic decision. He is giving fuel to republicans. Any normal person would understand that Biden administration is co-operating with the appropriate authority to resolve this matter. I am so disappointed at Merrick Garland.", ">\n\nSo the day after trump announced he was running he appointed a special counsel. The day after Biden (presumptive candidate) is being investigated, appoint a special counsel.... seems consistent.", ">\n\nI understand the frustration, however, what's the alternative choice? \nDemocrats should let immoral and unethical actions of their members? \nDoesn't it sound ridiculous to suggest being lawful and ethical is losing?\nWhat the democrats need to do is clean up their dependence on big donor moneys by making significant changes to the laws surrounding political campaigns. \nWhen Republican's don't vote for campaign reform, they should be examined carefully by journalists, then shamed for any corruption, and arrested for any crimes.", ">\n\nI like this comment; there is a core of truth and clearheaded observation within that would likely solve most things political, if we can just convince the first national politician to unlatch from the corporate money tit. Someone has to be the wind-dummy, the maverick, and it would certainly be someone with enough independent wealth to tell the corporations and lobbyists to kick rocks. Hell, if even the congressional leadership adopted this tactic, media pressure would steer the others. \nSounds very cool. Who’s first?", ">\n\nI don't know why everyone is making such a big deal about this. Obama declassified all of these documents on his last day in office. He didn't tell anyone, but since he thought it, they are declassified. You can't prove me wrong.", ">\n\nA complete outrage. It took Garland nearly TWO YEARS of begging Trump pretty please for his documents back AND a warrant before a Special Prosecutor could be assigned on Trump, but within two months, he’s out front and center appointing one on Biden? Fuck all Garland apologists." ]

[ "Do a complete investigation, gather the evidence, follow all procedures and the law, seek justice without fear or favor no matter who is involved. Figure this mess out.", ">\n\nFully agree - and I'd actually like the investigation to be concluded swiftly since the ones being investigated will likely be 100% cooperative. It's not like DoJ will have to be dealing with full on liars and criminals which takes forever to find the answers.", ">\n\nI 100% agree that there ought to be a reasonable investigation into this but I do have to wonder if any of this matters at all given that Biden is currently the president and therefore has not only the right to have classified information but also the ability to declassify that information.\nNot trying to make excuses for the oversight (or lack thereof) of classified documents, but it seems to me as though this requires an investigation into how classified documents are handled during and after individuals have been given such status and after said status has lapsed.\nLet's be perfectly honest, if they had taken different actions on the first set of documents, we likely wouldn't even know about this because there was nobody searching for them.\nHad Biden and his lawyers actually been seriously corrupt, they could easily have disposed of them in a fireplace or down a toilet and no one would know the better.\nThe fact that they brought this directly to the attention of the proper authorities is at least proof that they do have respect for the rule of law and are willing to except the consequences, even if it is going to be used to make political hay while the sun shines.\nThat said, this likely has huge implications for executive privilege, especially to the extent that the former president argued he had. I personally do not have a problem with the minister of th Office of the President being able to be held accountable for their actions but only if it is equally applied across the board and not just something that we will have to deal with when presidents from the Democratic party are being scrutinized.", ">\n\n\nhas not only the right to have classified information but also the ability to declassify that information.\n\nHe does. But apparently these docs were from his Vice Presidency under Obama. So, it's a bit uncertain.\nAnd it really undermines at least one of the central charges you could have lodged against Trump, that everyone that is able to access classified documents has a substantive responsibility to make sure they are handled appropriately. The \"oh, well, we had to leave in a hurry and things just got mixed up\" arguments Trump could have made before would have had little merit - especially when you consider previous historic cases where even a single doc mishandled ended up with someone in jail.\nBut now Trump will be able to dilute that charge completely. He's still fucked on obstruction and everything else (hopefully).", ">\n\nClassified != Compartmentalized, Top Secret, etc.", ">\n\nI agree with you, but I was recently informed that sources say some of these classified documents were classified Top Secret.\nIt does appear as though ABC is confirming that sources are saying that some of these were top secret documents.\n\nSources also told ABC News that the original batch of about 10 documents found in November contains classified vice-presidential briefing papers about foreign countries, some of which were marked top secret.\n\nAnd CNN is not even using the journalistic term source, going so far as to assert that some of these documents were top secret.\n\nSome of the classified documents were “top secret,” the highest level. They were found in three or four boxes that also contained unclassified papers that fall under the Presidential Records Act, CNN has reported.\n\nIf we are going to maintain Integrity about the treatment of top secret classified documents, it is important to hold both sides accountable for their retention of documents.\nThank goodness that Biden's lawyers were up front with the FBI and NARA rather than lying about the retention of documents and obstructing an investigation.\nI really hope that Biden doesn't try to use the executive privilege argument to keep himself from investigation, but this is likely going to be a permanent stain on his reputation and definitely opens up the presidential field in the Democratic Party for 2024.", ">\n\nWhy would this be a permanent stain on Biden’s reputation?", ">\n\nBecause it will 100% be used along with whataboutism to suggest that Biden was going after Trump for the same thing that he was caught doing, regardless of the fact that Biden was not responsible for the investigation into Trump's documents has not been outspoken about the retention of documents, subsequent Lies by his lawyers, and obstruction.\nI'm not saying that it is going to be fair, or even rational but it is going to cause a stain and that will be used to pillory him.", ">\n\nSo in essence, this is only going to be a stain in the minds of people who are rather brainless to begin with….gotcha", ">\n\nIts a stain because it's political ammunition for the other side, not because you or I see it for the opportunitistically timed political assault that it seems to be. In modern politics, being on the defensive is the same as losing. Hillary Clinton's email fiasco likely contributed to the 2016 election results even though she wasn't indicted for a crime.\nThe people on the other side of the political spectrum who would consider this whole fiasco a stain on Biden AREN'T brainless, they're heavily propogandized, and they DO vote. This whole thing will be used to justify any or all of Trump's conduct that should be immediately disqualifying. Expect this to be split-screened with all of Trump's legal woes.\nHopefully Trump won't make it to the 2024 Election season as a viable candidate. If Trump does make it, Trump will use this against Biden. If Trump loses out to someone like DeSantis, there will be a concerted effort to crucify Biden with it.", ">\n\nMy favorite part of this:\nNo raging tweets from the president making up executive powers. Accusing people of planting evidence and arguing about a deep state conspiracy against him.", ">\n\nI’d be hilarious if he copy pasted one of trumps tweets and ended it with JK I’m not a raving lunatic in a middle of a tantrum.", ">\n\nThat would be some great dark Brandon shit.", ">\n\nI am all for a special counsel being appointed. But a Trump appointee feels like an attempt by Garland to bend over backwards to show just how apolitical he is. If he wanted to reach across the aisle, he couldn’t find a Bush appointee rather than someone appointed by a man who literally tried to upend the Republic and is known for appointing partisan hacks?", ">\n\nThis is how Garland has been acting since appointed. It’s like he’s so terrified of being perceived as biased against repubs that he instead acts biased against dems. He has truly been a failure at AG.. even more of a letdown than Mueller", ">\n\nWell, Garland is a conservative….. people think that he must be left wing because Obama nominated him for SCOTUS. NOPE! - he’s right wing and Obama was throwing the GOP a bone. The GOP just hated Obama so fucking much they slapped down a nominee that aligned with them.", ">\n\nTrue, Biden should have appointed someone else", ">\n\nOnly took a year and a half to appoint one for Trump. Also what about that DOJ policy about not investigating and prosecuting a sitting president which protected the former guy for, what, six years now?", ">\n\nGarland is not our friend.", ">\n\nWho’s friend, exactly? What does friendship have to do with accountability to rules and laws?\nAre you suggesting the DOJ should be aligned and friendly with one particular party or another and so they don’t have to follow rules and laws we expect others to comply with?", ">\n\nGarland is not a friend to justice.\nWhy has Trump not been indicted yet? What's the confusion?", ">\n\n\nWhy has Trump not been indicted yet?\n\nwhy would you expect him to have been? the investigation isn't over yet", ">\n\nit explains why they weren't indicted in the article", ">\n\nSome anonymous lawyer being quoted by CNN is not a definitive explanation at all. It's hearsay and well-meaning bullshit. But when the DOJ was asked? \"A spokesperson for the Department of Justice declined to comment.\" But if you do believe that anonymous source, do you really think they have executive privilege, as your source says? How TF do \"advisors\" get privilege?", ">\n\nthey worked in the White House", ">\n\nBad enough that everyone bought that crap, \"The president is immune to criminal prosecution and subpoenas.\" But now we're going to extend it to anyone who worked in the White House?! Holy cow you can't possibly believe that's a good idea.", ">\n\nAs. We. Would. Expect. 🤷‍♂️ \nCan't wait until Biden whines, makes excuses, tries to get a special master, claims that they where declassifi...... Oh wait. Dems don't do any of that.", ">\n\nIt doesn’t even matter cause republicans don’t care about mishandling classified document- oh wait…now they do.", ">\n\nAs a Democrat I am pretty pissed off at Biden for this, but I would be willing to bet he didn't know the documents were there. \nThat said, I am a strong believer in people being punished for breaking the law, even if they are on my \"team.\"\nIf he broke the law, punish him. \nJust make sure that that miserable, racist orange thing that yells all the time gets his as well.\nThis is the only way to have nice things.", ">\n\nBiden isn't asking for a special grand master or looking for a favorable court... weird.", ">\n\nLove how it took 2 years to do this for trump, and he ain't even president, 2 days for Biden and he is president. \nTo be clear, I'm not saying there shouldn't be an investigation, I'm saying Garland is showing his true colors pretty strongly with the disparity.\nEdit: I'm muting this thread, not trying to get banned for cussing some fool out again. Have a good night y'all.", ">\n\nThe difference will always be that most democrats are just fine with an investigation. Because they care about good governance instead of personality cults.", ">\n\nYeah, it's like Goofus and Gallant. Except Goofus wins every other election and beats your head in with a bat.", ">\n\nWeird how Garland can move with lightning speed when it’s a cover-your-ass political move. Lightning speed.", ">\n\nFucking ridiculous the kid-gloves treatment that Trump gets.", ">\n\nI feel like Trump is about to get his shit kicked in here by Jack Smith in about a month or so when the indictments start coming", ">\n\nI feel like someone has said this every month for the last 6 years. The point is, Trump is untouchable. His angry mob would never succeed in overthrowing the government, but they would likely affect quarterly profits.", ">\n\nThis right here. Gotta keep the wolves fed or they might bite you. \nDomestic Terrorism discourages commerce. They’re fucking cowards.", ">\n\nHow's that Trump indictment coming?", ">\n\nThis is all I'm concerned about. Biden's situation I'm sure will work itself out, but Trump has most certainly committed crimes well beyond and before simply having classified documents. I'm not even saying Biden hasn't broken the law, and he should be dealt with accordingly, but Trump has been a national security hazard and criminal since long before classified documents were found and obstruction was clearly committed to shield them, and this Biden situation should, in no way, get in the way of that case, which seems long overdue.", ">\n\nWeird. I thought the DOJ didn’t want to investigate presidents.", ">\n\nWeird, I recall the DOJ investigating Trump while he was president. And Clinton.", ">\n\nI'm not confused about it. There's no policy against investigating presidents, which is why the numerous investigations into recent sitting presidents happened and were not against any policy. There is a policy against indicting them, though that's not legally binding in any way, just a stated approach that the Justice dept. has outlined in the past.", ">\n\nThe difference between Republicans and Dems is on display again. \nNo cults, no obstructing. Let the legal system do its thing.", ">\n\nSo... he can move fast??", ">\n\nThis proves that Garland is exquisitely sensitive to (Republican) public opinion, which proves to me that he will never indict Trump.", ">\n\nHe has stated many times that no person is above the law. This proves that he's practices what he preaches.", ">\n\nDoes it though? He holds D’s to the rule of law, but drags his feet with R’s.. all to try to seem impartial. He is not holding everyone to the same standard.", ">\n\nthis is a good move despite what wackos in this sub will say. the alternative would be jim jordan and the house intelligence committee running crazy conspiracy theories over this investigation. \nwith this special counsel it will at least be an actual legitimate investigation that will in all likelihood tamper the political effects for biden, as well as create a more legitimate nonpartisan line between this and the trump situation. it won't matter for republicans anyway, but the appearance of impropriety is good!\nobviously there's some hiccup in whatever processes for classified documents there are if they can be mixed in with other documents, put in places they aren't supposed to be, forgotten about, etc. and perhaps that can come to light as a result of both of these investigations and those processes can be revised to address these issues, whether intentionally mishandled or mishandled due to ignorance/an accident.", ">\n\n\nthe alternative would be jim jordan and the house intelligence committee running crazy conspiracy theories over this investigation. \n\ni don't think is an \"either or\" kind of situation. you'll still get jim's hot take of the day once they set up the committee.", ">\n\nsure but as far as document requests and the like it could make it more complicated for the house to go as apeshit as they would otherwise", ">\n\nNo it won't. Because they are not grounded in reality. Just watch.", ">\n\ni mean the law still exists lol", ">\n\nDoes it, though?", ">\n\nyes\ndo you think jim jordan can just walk over to DOJ and grab a bunch of documents and tell the DOJ to fuck off?", ">\n\nNo. But he can tell the House to fuck off when they subpoena him. And that subpoena is referred to the DOJ for enforcement, Merrick Garland can sit on it for weeks and then eventually decline to prosecute. Just like it happened with Meadows.", ">\n\nSure, sounds reasonable. Seems pretty likely somebody committed a crime. \nRemind me again why Garland took 20 extra months to take action when a Republican had documents like this?", ">\n\nMerrick Garland took two years to appoint a special counsel to Trump but he took 1 week to appoint a special counsel to Biden. Is he trying to please the Republican house or someone powerful is really trying hard that Biden don't run again. What an idiotic decision. He is giving fuel to republicans. Any normal person would understand that Biden administration is co-operating with the appropriate authority to resolve this matter. I am so disappointed at Merrick Garland.", ">\n\nSo the day after trump announced he was running he appointed a special counsel. The day after Biden (presumptive candidate) is being investigated, appoint a special counsel.... seems consistent.", ">\n\nI understand the frustration, however, what's the alternative choice? \nDemocrats should let immoral and unethical actions of their members? \nDoesn't it sound ridiculous to suggest being lawful and ethical is losing?\nWhat the democrats need to do is clean up their dependence on big donor moneys by making significant changes to the laws surrounding political campaigns. \nWhen Republican's don't vote for campaign reform, they should be examined carefully by journalists, then shamed for any corruption, and arrested for any crimes.", ">\n\nI like this comment; there is a core of truth and clearheaded observation within that would likely solve most things political, if we can just convince the first national politician to unlatch from the corporate money tit. Someone has to be the wind-dummy, the maverick, and it would certainly be someone with enough independent wealth to tell the corporations and lobbyists to kick rocks. Hell, if even the congressional leadership adopted this tactic, media pressure would steer the others. \nSounds very cool. Who’s first?", ">\n\nI don't know why everyone is making such a big deal about this. Obama declassified all of these documents on his last day in office. He didn't tell anyone, but since he thought it, they are declassified. You can't prove me wrong.", ">\n\nA complete outrage. It took Garland nearly TWO YEARS of begging Trump pretty please for his documents back AND a warrant before a Special Prosecutor could be assigned on Trump, but within two months, he’s out front and center appointing one on Biden? Fuck all Garland apologists.", ">\n\nBefore Trump announced his candidacy for 2024, Garland didn't need a special counsel. He could investigate him directly." ]

[ "Do a complete investigation, gather the evidence, follow all procedures and the law, seek justice without fear or favor no matter who is involved. Figure this mess out.", ">\n\nFully agree - and I'd actually like the investigation to be concluded swiftly since the ones being investigated will likely be 100% cooperative. It's not like DoJ will have to be dealing with full on liars and criminals which takes forever to find the answers.", ">\n\nI 100% agree that there ought to be a reasonable investigation into this but I do have to wonder if any of this matters at all given that Biden is currently the president and therefore has not only the right to have classified information but also the ability to declassify that information.\nNot trying to make excuses for the oversight (or lack thereof) of classified documents, but it seems to me as though this requires an investigation into how classified documents are handled during and after individuals have been given such status and after said status has lapsed.\nLet's be perfectly honest, if they had taken different actions on the first set of documents, we likely wouldn't even know about this because there was nobody searching for them.\nHad Biden and his lawyers actually been seriously corrupt, they could easily have disposed of them in a fireplace or down a toilet and no one would know the better.\nThe fact that they brought this directly to the attention of the proper authorities is at least proof that they do have respect for the rule of law and are willing to except the consequences, even if it is going to be used to make political hay while the sun shines.\nThat said, this likely has huge implications for executive privilege, especially to the extent that the former president argued he had. I personally do not have a problem with the minister of th Office of the President being able to be held accountable for their actions but only if it is equally applied across the board and not just something that we will have to deal with when presidents from the Democratic party are being scrutinized.", ">\n\n\nhas not only the right to have classified information but also the ability to declassify that information.\n\nHe does. But apparently these docs were from his Vice Presidency under Obama. So, it's a bit uncertain.\nAnd it really undermines at least one of the central charges you could have lodged against Trump, that everyone that is able to access classified documents has a substantive responsibility to make sure they are handled appropriately. The \"oh, well, we had to leave in a hurry and things just got mixed up\" arguments Trump could have made before would have had little merit - especially when you consider previous historic cases where even a single doc mishandled ended up with someone in jail.\nBut now Trump will be able to dilute that charge completely. He's still fucked on obstruction and everything else (hopefully).", ">\n\nClassified != Compartmentalized, Top Secret, etc.", ">\n\nI agree with you, but I was recently informed that sources say some of these classified documents were classified Top Secret.\nIt does appear as though ABC is confirming that sources are saying that some of these were top secret documents.\n\nSources also told ABC News that the original batch of about 10 documents found in November contains classified vice-presidential briefing papers about foreign countries, some of which were marked top secret.\n\nAnd CNN is not even using the journalistic term source, going so far as to assert that some of these documents were top secret.\n\nSome of the classified documents were “top secret,” the highest level. They were found in three or four boxes that also contained unclassified papers that fall under the Presidential Records Act, CNN has reported.\n\nIf we are going to maintain Integrity about the treatment of top secret classified documents, it is important to hold both sides accountable for their retention of documents.\nThank goodness that Biden's lawyers were up front with the FBI and NARA rather than lying about the retention of documents and obstructing an investigation.\nI really hope that Biden doesn't try to use the executive privilege argument to keep himself from investigation, but this is likely going to be a permanent stain on his reputation and definitely opens up the presidential field in the Democratic Party for 2024.", ">\n\nWhy would this be a permanent stain on Biden’s reputation?", ">\n\nBecause it will 100% be used along with whataboutism to suggest that Biden was going after Trump for the same thing that he was caught doing, regardless of the fact that Biden was not responsible for the investigation into Trump's documents has not been outspoken about the retention of documents, subsequent Lies by his lawyers, and obstruction.\nI'm not saying that it is going to be fair, or even rational but it is going to cause a stain and that will be used to pillory him.", ">\n\nSo in essence, this is only going to be a stain in the minds of people who are rather brainless to begin with….gotcha", ">\n\nIts a stain because it's political ammunition for the other side, not because you or I see it for the opportunitistically timed political assault that it seems to be. In modern politics, being on the defensive is the same as losing. Hillary Clinton's email fiasco likely contributed to the 2016 election results even though she wasn't indicted for a crime.\nThe people on the other side of the political spectrum who would consider this whole fiasco a stain on Biden AREN'T brainless, they're heavily propogandized, and they DO vote. This whole thing will be used to justify any or all of Trump's conduct that should be immediately disqualifying. Expect this to be split-screened with all of Trump's legal woes.\nHopefully Trump won't make it to the 2024 Election season as a viable candidate. If Trump does make it, Trump will use this against Biden. If Trump loses out to someone like DeSantis, there will be a concerted effort to crucify Biden with it.", ">\n\nMy favorite part of this:\nNo raging tweets from the president making up executive powers. Accusing people of planting evidence and arguing about a deep state conspiracy against him.", ">\n\nI’d be hilarious if he copy pasted one of trumps tweets and ended it with JK I’m not a raving lunatic in a middle of a tantrum.", ">\n\nThat would be some great dark Brandon shit.", ">\n\nI am all for a special counsel being appointed. But a Trump appointee feels like an attempt by Garland to bend over backwards to show just how apolitical he is. If he wanted to reach across the aisle, he couldn’t find a Bush appointee rather than someone appointed by a man who literally tried to upend the Republic and is known for appointing partisan hacks?", ">\n\nThis is how Garland has been acting since appointed. It’s like he’s so terrified of being perceived as biased against repubs that he instead acts biased against dems. He has truly been a failure at AG.. even more of a letdown than Mueller", ">\n\nWell, Garland is a conservative….. people think that he must be left wing because Obama nominated him for SCOTUS. NOPE! - he’s right wing and Obama was throwing the GOP a bone. The GOP just hated Obama so fucking much they slapped down a nominee that aligned with them.", ">\n\nTrue, Biden should have appointed someone else", ">\n\nOnly took a year and a half to appoint one for Trump. Also what about that DOJ policy about not investigating and prosecuting a sitting president which protected the former guy for, what, six years now?", ">\n\nGarland is not our friend.", ">\n\nWho’s friend, exactly? What does friendship have to do with accountability to rules and laws?\nAre you suggesting the DOJ should be aligned and friendly with one particular party or another and so they don’t have to follow rules and laws we expect others to comply with?", ">\n\nGarland is not a friend to justice.\nWhy has Trump not been indicted yet? What's the confusion?", ">\n\n\nWhy has Trump not been indicted yet?\n\nwhy would you expect him to have been? the investigation isn't over yet", ">\n\nit explains why they weren't indicted in the article", ">\n\nSome anonymous lawyer being quoted by CNN is not a definitive explanation at all. It's hearsay and well-meaning bullshit. But when the DOJ was asked? \"A spokesperson for the Department of Justice declined to comment.\" But if you do believe that anonymous source, do you really think they have executive privilege, as your source says? How TF do \"advisors\" get privilege?", ">\n\nthey worked in the White House", ">\n\nBad enough that everyone bought that crap, \"The president is immune to criminal prosecution and subpoenas.\" But now we're going to extend it to anyone who worked in the White House?! Holy cow you can't possibly believe that's a good idea.", ">\n\nAs. We. Would. Expect. 🤷‍♂️ \nCan't wait until Biden whines, makes excuses, tries to get a special master, claims that they where declassifi...... Oh wait. Dems don't do any of that.", ">\n\nIt doesn’t even matter cause republicans don’t care about mishandling classified document- oh wait…now they do.", ">\n\nAs a Democrat I am pretty pissed off at Biden for this, but I would be willing to bet he didn't know the documents were there. \nThat said, I am a strong believer in people being punished for breaking the law, even if they are on my \"team.\"\nIf he broke the law, punish him. \nJust make sure that that miserable, racist orange thing that yells all the time gets his as well.\nThis is the only way to have nice things.", ">\n\nBiden isn't asking for a special grand master or looking for a favorable court... weird.", ">\n\nLove how it took 2 years to do this for trump, and he ain't even president, 2 days for Biden and he is president. \nTo be clear, I'm not saying there shouldn't be an investigation, I'm saying Garland is showing his true colors pretty strongly with the disparity.\nEdit: I'm muting this thread, not trying to get banned for cussing some fool out again. Have a good night y'all.", ">\n\nThe difference will always be that most democrats are just fine with an investigation. Because they care about good governance instead of personality cults.", ">\n\nYeah, it's like Goofus and Gallant. Except Goofus wins every other election and beats your head in with a bat.", ">\n\nWeird how Garland can move with lightning speed when it’s a cover-your-ass political move. Lightning speed.", ">\n\nFucking ridiculous the kid-gloves treatment that Trump gets.", ">\n\nI feel like Trump is about to get his shit kicked in here by Jack Smith in about a month or so when the indictments start coming", ">\n\nI feel like someone has said this every month for the last 6 years. The point is, Trump is untouchable. His angry mob would never succeed in overthrowing the government, but they would likely affect quarterly profits.", ">\n\nThis right here. Gotta keep the wolves fed or they might bite you. \nDomestic Terrorism discourages commerce. They’re fucking cowards.", ">\n\nHow's that Trump indictment coming?", ">\n\nThis is all I'm concerned about. Biden's situation I'm sure will work itself out, but Trump has most certainly committed crimes well beyond and before simply having classified documents. I'm not even saying Biden hasn't broken the law, and he should be dealt with accordingly, but Trump has been a national security hazard and criminal since long before classified documents were found and obstruction was clearly committed to shield them, and this Biden situation should, in no way, get in the way of that case, which seems long overdue.", ">\n\nWeird. I thought the DOJ didn’t want to investigate presidents.", ">\n\nWeird, I recall the DOJ investigating Trump while he was president. And Clinton.", ">\n\nI'm not confused about it. There's no policy against investigating presidents, which is why the numerous investigations into recent sitting presidents happened and were not against any policy. There is a policy against indicting them, though that's not legally binding in any way, just a stated approach that the Justice dept. has outlined in the past.", ">\n\nThe difference between Republicans and Dems is on display again. \nNo cults, no obstructing. Let the legal system do its thing.", ">\n\nSo... he can move fast??", ">\n\nThis proves that Garland is exquisitely sensitive to (Republican) public opinion, which proves to me that he will never indict Trump.", ">\n\nHe has stated many times that no person is above the law. This proves that he's practices what he preaches.", ">\n\nDoes it though? He holds D’s to the rule of law, but drags his feet with R’s.. all to try to seem impartial. He is not holding everyone to the same standard.", ">\n\nthis is a good move despite what wackos in this sub will say. the alternative would be jim jordan and the house intelligence committee running crazy conspiracy theories over this investigation. \nwith this special counsel it will at least be an actual legitimate investigation that will in all likelihood tamper the political effects for biden, as well as create a more legitimate nonpartisan line between this and the trump situation. it won't matter for republicans anyway, but the appearance of impropriety is good!\nobviously there's some hiccup in whatever processes for classified documents there are if they can be mixed in with other documents, put in places they aren't supposed to be, forgotten about, etc. and perhaps that can come to light as a result of both of these investigations and those processes can be revised to address these issues, whether intentionally mishandled or mishandled due to ignorance/an accident.", ">\n\n\nthe alternative would be jim jordan and the house intelligence committee running crazy conspiracy theories over this investigation. \n\ni don't think is an \"either or\" kind of situation. you'll still get jim's hot take of the day once they set up the committee.", ">\n\nsure but as far as document requests and the like it could make it more complicated for the house to go as apeshit as they would otherwise", ">\n\nNo it won't. Because they are not grounded in reality. Just watch.", ">\n\ni mean the law still exists lol", ">\n\nDoes it, though?", ">\n\nyes\ndo you think jim jordan can just walk over to DOJ and grab a bunch of documents and tell the DOJ to fuck off?", ">\n\nNo. But he can tell the House to fuck off when they subpoena him. And that subpoena is referred to the DOJ for enforcement, Merrick Garland can sit on it for weeks and then eventually decline to prosecute. Just like it happened with Meadows.", ">\n\nSure, sounds reasonable. Seems pretty likely somebody committed a crime. \nRemind me again why Garland took 20 extra months to take action when a Republican had documents like this?", ">\n\nMerrick Garland took two years to appoint a special counsel to Trump but he took 1 week to appoint a special counsel to Biden. Is he trying to please the Republican house or someone powerful is really trying hard that Biden don't run again. What an idiotic decision. He is giving fuel to republicans. Any normal person would understand that Biden administration is co-operating with the appropriate authority to resolve this matter. I am so disappointed at Merrick Garland.", ">\n\nSo the day after trump announced he was running he appointed a special counsel. The day after Biden (presumptive candidate) is being investigated, appoint a special counsel.... seems consistent.", ">\n\nI understand the frustration, however, what's the alternative choice? \nDemocrats should let immoral and unethical actions of their members? \nDoesn't it sound ridiculous to suggest being lawful and ethical is losing?\nWhat the democrats need to do is clean up their dependence on big donor moneys by making significant changes to the laws surrounding political campaigns. \nWhen Republican's don't vote for campaign reform, they should be examined carefully by journalists, then shamed for any corruption, and arrested for any crimes.", ">\n\nI like this comment; there is a core of truth and clearheaded observation within that would likely solve most things political, if we can just convince the first national politician to unlatch from the corporate money tit. Someone has to be the wind-dummy, the maverick, and it would certainly be someone with enough independent wealth to tell the corporations and lobbyists to kick rocks. Hell, if even the congressional leadership adopted this tactic, media pressure would steer the others. \nSounds very cool. Who’s first?", ">\n\nI don't know why everyone is making such a big deal about this. Obama declassified all of these documents on his last day in office. He didn't tell anyone, but since he thought it, they are declassified. You can't prove me wrong.", ">\n\nA complete outrage. It took Garland nearly TWO YEARS of begging Trump pretty please for his documents back AND a warrant before a Special Prosecutor could be assigned on Trump, but within two months, he’s out front and center appointing one on Biden? Fuck all Garland apologists.", ">\n\nBefore Trump announced his candidacy for 2024, Garland didn't need a special counsel. He could investigate him directly.", ">\n\n“Could”" ]

[ "Do a complete investigation, gather the evidence, follow all procedures and the law, seek justice without fear or favor no matter who is involved. Figure this mess out.", ">\n\nFully agree - and I'd actually like the investigation to be concluded swiftly since the ones being investigated will likely be 100% cooperative. It's not like DoJ will have to be dealing with full on liars and criminals which takes forever to find the answers.", ">\n\nI 100% agree that there ought to be a reasonable investigation into this but I do have to wonder if any of this matters at all given that Biden is currently the president and therefore has not only the right to have classified information but also the ability to declassify that information.\nNot trying to make excuses for the oversight (or lack thereof) of classified documents, but it seems to me as though this requires an investigation into how classified documents are handled during and after individuals have been given such status and after said status has lapsed.\nLet's be perfectly honest, if they had taken different actions on the first set of documents, we likely wouldn't even know about this because there was nobody searching for them.\nHad Biden and his lawyers actually been seriously corrupt, they could easily have disposed of them in a fireplace or down a toilet and no one would know the better.\nThe fact that they brought this directly to the attention of the proper authorities is at least proof that they do have respect for the rule of law and are willing to except the consequences, even if it is going to be used to make political hay while the sun shines.\nThat said, this likely has huge implications for executive privilege, especially to the extent that the former president argued he had. I personally do not have a problem with the minister of th Office of the President being able to be held accountable for their actions but only if it is equally applied across the board and not just something that we will have to deal with when presidents from the Democratic party are being scrutinized.", ">\n\n\nhas not only the right to have classified information but also the ability to declassify that information.\n\nHe does. But apparently these docs were from his Vice Presidency under Obama. So, it's a bit uncertain.\nAnd it really undermines at least one of the central charges you could have lodged against Trump, that everyone that is able to access classified documents has a substantive responsibility to make sure they are handled appropriately. The \"oh, well, we had to leave in a hurry and things just got mixed up\" arguments Trump could have made before would have had little merit - especially when you consider previous historic cases where even a single doc mishandled ended up with someone in jail.\nBut now Trump will be able to dilute that charge completely. He's still fucked on obstruction and everything else (hopefully).", ">\n\nClassified != Compartmentalized, Top Secret, etc.", ">\n\nI agree with you, but I was recently informed that sources say some of these classified documents were classified Top Secret.\nIt does appear as though ABC is confirming that sources are saying that some of these were top secret documents.\n\nSources also told ABC News that the original batch of about 10 documents found in November contains classified vice-presidential briefing papers about foreign countries, some of which were marked top secret.\n\nAnd CNN is not even using the journalistic term source, going so far as to assert that some of these documents were top secret.\n\nSome of the classified documents were “top secret,” the highest level. They were found in three or four boxes that also contained unclassified papers that fall under the Presidential Records Act, CNN has reported.\n\nIf we are going to maintain Integrity about the treatment of top secret classified documents, it is important to hold both sides accountable for their retention of documents.\nThank goodness that Biden's lawyers were up front with the FBI and NARA rather than lying about the retention of documents and obstructing an investigation.\nI really hope that Biden doesn't try to use the executive privilege argument to keep himself from investigation, but this is likely going to be a permanent stain on his reputation and definitely opens up the presidential field in the Democratic Party for 2024.", ">\n\nWhy would this be a permanent stain on Biden’s reputation?", ">\n\nBecause it will 100% be used along with whataboutism to suggest that Biden was going after Trump for the same thing that he was caught doing, regardless of the fact that Biden was not responsible for the investigation into Trump's documents has not been outspoken about the retention of documents, subsequent Lies by his lawyers, and obstruction.\nI'm not saying that it is going to be fair, or even rational but it is going to cause a stain and that will be used to pillory him.", ">\n\nSo in essence, this is only going to be a stain in the minds of people who are rather brainless to begin with….gotcha", ">\n\nIts a stain because it's political ammunition for the other side, not because you or I see it for the opportunitistically timed political assault that it seems to be. In modern politics, being on the defensive is the same as losing. Hillary Clinton's email fiasco likely contributed to the 2016 election results even though she wasn't indicted for a crime.\nThe people on the other side of the political spectrum who would consider this whole fiasco a stain on Biden AREN'T brainless, they're heavily propogandized, and they DO vote. This whole thing will be used to justify any or all of Trump's conduct that should be immediately disqualifying. Expect this to be split-screened with all of Trump's legal woes.\nHopefully Trump won't make it to the 2024 Election season as a viable candidate. If Trump does make it, Trump will use this against Biden. If Trump loses out to someone like DeSantis, there will be a concerted effort to crucify Biden with it.", ">\n\nMy favorite part of this:\nNo raging tweets from the president making up executive powers. Accusing people of planting evidence and arguing about a deep state conspiracy against him.", ">\n\nI’d be hilarious if he copy pasted one of trumps tweets and ended it with JK I’m not a raving lunatic in a middle of a tantrum.", ">\n\nThat would be some great dark Brandon shit.", ">\n\nI am all for a special counsel being appointed. But a Trump appointee feels like an attempt by Garland to bend over backwards to show just how apolitical he is. If he wanted to reach across the aisle, he couldn’t find a Bush appointee rather than someone appointed by a man who literally tried to upend the Republic and is known for appointing partisan hacks?", ">\n\nThis is how Garland has been acting since appointed. It’s like he’s so terrified of being perceived as biased against repubs that he instead acts biased against dems. He has truly been a failure at AG.. even more of a letdown than Mueller", ">\n\nWell, Garland is a conservative….. people think that he must be left wing because Obama nominated him for SCOTUS. NOPE! - he’s right wing and Obama was throwing the GOP a bone. The GOP just hated Obama so fucking much they slapped down a nominee that aligned with them.", ">\n\nTrue, Biden should have appointed someone else", ">\n\nOnly took a year and a half to appoint one for Trump. Also what about that DOJ policy about not investigating and prosecuting a sitting president which protected the former guy for, what, six years now?", ">\n\nGarland is not our friend.", ">\n\nWho’s friend, exactly? What does friendship have to do with accountability to rules and laws?\nAre you suggesting the DOJ should be aligned and friendly with one particular party or another and so they don’t have to follow rules and laws we expect others to comply with?", ">\n\nGarland is not a friend to justice.\nWhy has Trump not been indicted yet? What's the confusion?", ">\n\n\nWhy has Trump not been indicted yet?\n\nwhy would you expect him to have been? the investigation isn't over yet", ">\n\nit explains why they weren't indicted in the article", ">\n\nSome anonymous lawyer being quoted by CNN is not a definitive explanation at all. It's hearsay and well-meaning bullshit. But when the DOJ was asked? \"A spokesperson for the Department of Justice declined to comment.\" But if you do believe that anonymous source, do you really think they have executive privilege, as your source says? How TF do \"advisors\" get privilege?", ">\n\nthey worked in the White House", ">\n\nBad enough that everyone bought that crap, \"The president is immune to criminal prosecution and subpoenas.\" But now we're going to extend it to anyone who worked in the White House?! Holy cow you can't possibly believe that's a good idea.", ">\n\nAs. We. Would. Expect. 🤷‍♂️ \nCan't wait until Biden whines, makes excuses, tries to get a special master, claims that they where declassifi...... Oh wait. Dems don't do any of that.", ">\n\nIt doesn’t even matter cause republicans don’t care about mishandling classified document- oh wait…now they do.", ">\n\nAs a Democrat I am pretty pissed off at Biden for this, but I would be willing to bet he didn't know the documents were there. \nThat said, I am a strong believer in people being punished for breaking the law, even if they are on my \"team.\"\nIf he broke the law, punish him. \nJust make sure that that miserable, racist orange thing that yells all the time gets his as well.\nThis is the only way to have nice things.", ">\n\nBiden isn't asking for a special grand master or looking for a favorable court... weird.", ">\n\nLove how it took 2 years to do this for trump, and he ain't even president, 2 days for Biden and he is president. \nTo be clear, I'm not saying there shouldn't be an investigation, I'm saying Garland is showing his true colors pretty strongly with the disparity.\nEdit: I'm muting this thread, not trying to get banned for cussing some fool out again. Have a good night y'all.", ">\n\nThe difference will always be that most democrats are just fine with an investigation. Because they care about good governance instead of personality cults.", ">\n\nYeah, it's like Goofus and Gallant. Except Goofus wins every other election and beats your head in with a bat.", ">\n\nWeird how Garland can move with lightning speed when it’s a cover-your-ass political move. Lightning speed.", ">\n\nFucking ridiculous the kid-gloves treatment that Trump gets.", ">\n\nI feel like Trump is about to get his shit kicked in here by Jack Smith in about a month or so when the indictments start coming", ">\n\nI feel like someone has said this every month for the last 6 years. The point is, Trump is untouchable. His angry mob would never succeed in overthrowing the government, but they would likely affect quarterly profits.", ">\n\nThis right here. Gotta keep the wolves fed or they might bite you. \nDomestic Terrorism discourages commerce. They’re fucking cowards.", ">\n\nHow's that Trump indictment coming?", ">\n\nThis is all I'm concerned about. Biden's situation I'm sure will work itself out, but Trump has most certainly committed crimes well beyond and before simply having classified documents. I'm not even saying Biden hasn't broken the law, and he should be dealt with accordingly, but Trump has been a national security hazard and criminal since long before classified documents were found and obstruction was clearly committed to shield them, and this Biden situation should, in no way, get in the way of that case, which seems long overdue.", ">\n\nWeird. I thought the DOJ didn’t want to investigate presidents.", ">\n\nWeird, I recall the DOJ investigating Trump while he was president. And Clinton.", ">\n\nI'm not confused about it. There's no policy against investigating presidents, which is why the numerous investigations into recent sitting presidents happened and were not against any policy. There is a policy against indicting them, though that's not legally binding in any way, just a stated approach that the Justice dept. has outlined in the past.", ">\n\nThe difference between Republicans and Dems is on display again. \nNo cults, no obstructing. Let the legal system do its thing.", ">\n\nSo... he can move fast??", ">\n\nThis proves that Garland is exquisitely sensitive to (Republican) public opinion, which proves to me that he will never indict Trump.", ">\n\nHe has stated many times that no person is above the law. This proves that he's practices what he preaches.", ">\n\nDoes it though? He holds D’s to the rule of law, but drags his feet with R’s.. all to try to seem impartial. He is not holding everyone to the same standard.", ">\n\nthis is a good move despite what wackos in this sub will say. the alternative would be jim jordan and the house intelligence committee running crazy conspiracy theories over this investigation. \nwith this special counsel it will at least be an actual legitimate investigation that will in all likelihood tamper the political effects for biden, as well as create a more legitimate nonpartisan line between this and the trump situation. it won't matter for republicans anyway, but the appearance of impropriety is good!\nobviously there's some hiccup in whatever processes for classified documents there are if they can be mixed in with other documents, put in places they aren't supposed to be, forgotten about, etc. and perhaps that can come to light as a result of both of these investigations and those processes can be revised to address these issues, whether intentionally mishandled or mishandled due to ignorance/an accident.", ">\n\n\nthe alternative would be jim jordan and the house intelligence committee running crazy conspiracy theories over this investigation. \n\ni don't think is an \"either or\" kind of situation. you'll still get jim's hot take of the day once they set up the committee.", ">\n\nsure but as far as document requests and the like it could make it more complicated for the house to go as apeshit as they would otherwise", ">\n\nNo it won't. Because they are not grounded in reality. Just watch.", ">\n\ni mean the law still exists lol", ">\n\nDoes it, though?", ">\n\nyes\ndo you think jim jordan can just walk over to DOJ and grab a bunch of documents and tell the DOJ to fuck off?", ">\n\nNo. But he can tell the House to fuck off when they subpoena him. And that subpoena is referred to the DOJ for enforcement, Merrick Garland can sit on it for weeks and then eventually decline to prosecute. Just like it happened with Meadows.", ">\n\nSure, sounds reasonable. Seems pretty likely somebody committed a crime. \nRemind me again why Garland took 20 extra months to take action when a Republican had documents like this?", ">\n\nMerrick Garland took two years to appoint a special counsel to Trump but he took 1 week to appoint a special counsel to Biden. Is he trying to please the Republican house or someone powerful is really trying hard that Biden don't run again. What an idiotic decision. He is giving fuel to republicans. Any normal person would understand that Biden administration is co-operating with the appropriate authority to resolve this matter. I am so disappointed at Merrick Garland.", ">\n\nSo the day after trump announced he was running he appointed a special counsel. The day after Biden (presumptive candidate) is being investigated, appoint a special counsel.... seems consistent.", ">\n\nI understand the frustration, however, what's the alternative choice? \nDemocrats should let immoral and unethical actions of their members? \nDoesn't it sound ridiculous to suggest being lawful and ethical is losing?\nWhat the democrats need to do is clean up their dependence on big donor moneys by making significant changes to the laws surrounding political campaigns. \nWhen Republican's don't vote for campaign reform, they should be examined carefully by journalists, then shamed for any corruption, and arrested for any crimes.", ">\n\nI like this comment; there is a core of truth and clearheaded observation within that would likely solve most things political, if we can just convince the first national politician to unlatch from the corporate money tit. Someone has to be the wind-dummy, the maverick, and it would certainly be someone with enough independent wealth to tell the corporations and lobbyists to kick rocks. Hell, if even the congressional leadership adopted this tactic, media pressure would steer the others. \nSounds very cool. Who’s first?", ">\n\nI don't know why everyone is making such a big deal about this. Obama declassified all of these documents on his last day in office. He didn't tell anyone, but since he thought it, they are declassified. You can't prove me wrong.", ">\n\nA complete outrage. It took Garland nearly TWO YEARS of begging Trump pretty please for his documents back AND a warrant before a Special Prosecutor could be assigned on Trump, but within two months, he’s out front and center appointing one on Biden? Fuck all Garland apologists.", ">\n\nBefore Trump announced his candidacy for 2024, Garland didn't need a special counsel. He could investigate him directly.", ">\n\n“Could”", ">\n\nwhy are you using quotes? he was and is currently being investigated lol" ]

[ "Do a complete investigation, gather the evidence, follow all procedures and the law, seek justice without fear or favor no matter who is involved. Figure this mess out.", ">\n\nFully agree - and I'd actually like the investigation to be concluded swiftly since the ones being investigated will likely be 100% cooperative. It's not like DoJ will have to be dealing with full on liars and criminals which takes forever to find the answers.", ">\n\nI 100% agree that there ought to be a reasonable investigation into this but I do have to wonder if any of this matters at all given that Biden is currently the president and therefore has not only the right to have classified information but also the ability to declassify that information.\nNot trying to make excuses for the oversight (or lack thereof) of classified documents, but it seems to me as though this requires an investigation into how classified documents are handled during and after individuals have been given such status and after said status has lapsed.\nLet's be perfectly honest, if they had taken different actions on the first set of documents, we likely wouldn't even know about this because there was nobody searching for them.\nHad Biden and his lawyers actually been seriously corrupt, they could easily have disposed of them in a fireplace or down a toilet and no one would know the better.\nThe fact that they brought this directly to the attention of the proper authorities is at least proof that they do have respect for the rule of law and are willing to except the consequences, even if it is going to be used to make political hay while the sun shines.\nThat said, this likely has huge implications for executive privilege, especially to the extent that the former president argued he had. I personally do not have a problem with the minister of th Office of the President being able to be held accountable for their actions but only if it is equally applied across the board and not just something that we will have to deal with when presidents from the Democratic party are being scrutinized.", ">\n\n\nhas not only the right to have classified information but also the ability to declassify that information.\n\nHe does. But apparently these docs were from his Vice Presidency under Obama. So, it's a bit uncertain.\nAnd it really undermines at least one of the central charges you could have lodged against Trump, that everyone that is able to access classified documents has a substantive responsibility to make sure they are handled appropriately. The \"oh, well, we had to leave in a hurry and things just got mixed up\" arguments Trump could have made before would have had little merit - especially when you consider previous historic cases where even a single doc mishandled ended up with someone in jail.\nBut now Trump will be able to dilute that charge completely. He's still fucked on obstruction and everything else (hopefully).", ">\n\nClassified != Compartmentalized, Top Secret, etc.", ">\n\nI agree with you, but I was recently informed that sources say some of these classified documents were classified Top Secret.\nIt does appear as though ABC is confirming that sources are saying that some of these were top secret documents.\n\nSources also told ABC News that the original batch of about 10 documents found in November contains classified vice-presidential briefing papers about foreign countries, some of which were marked top secret.\n\nAnd CNN is not even using the journalistic term source, going so far as to assert that some of these documents were top secret.\n\nSome of the classified documents were “top secret,” the highest level. They were found in three or four boxes that also contained unclassified papers that fall under the Presidential Records Act, CNN has reported.\n\nIf we are going to maintain Integrity about the treatment of top secret classified documents, it is important to hold both sides accountable for their retention of documents.\nThank goodness that Biden's lawyers were up front with the FBI and NARA rather than lying about the retention of documents and obstructing an investigation.\nI really hope that Biden doesn't try to use the executive privilege argument to keep himself from investigation, but this is likely going to be a permanent stain on his reputation and definitely opens up the presidential field in the Democratic Party for 2024.", ">\n\nWhy would this be a permanent stain on Biden’s reputation?", ">\n\nBecause it will 100% be used along with whataboutism to suggest that Biden was going after Trump for the same thing that he was caught doing, regardless of the fact that Biden was not responsible for the investigation into Trump's documents has not been outspoken about the retention of documents, subsequent Lies by his lawyers, and obstruction.\nI'm not saying that it is going to be fair, or even rational but it is going to cause a stain and that will be used to pillory him.", ">\n\nSo in essence, this is only going to be a stain in the minds of people who are rather brainless to begin with….gotcha", ">\n\nIts a stain because it's political ammunition for the other side, not because you or I see it for the opportunitistically timed political assault that it seems to be. In modern politics, being on the defensive is the same as losing. Hillary Clinton's email fiasco likely contributed to the 2016 election results even though she wasn't indicted for a crime.\nThe people on the other side of the political spectrum who would consider this whole fiasco a stain on Biden AREN'T brainless, they're heavily propogandized, and they DO vote. This whole thing will be used to justify any or all of Trump's conduct that should be immediately disqualifying. Expect this to be split-screened with all of Trump's legal woes.\nHopefully Trump won't make it to the 2024 Election season as a viable candidate. If Trump does make it, Trump will use this against Biden. If Trump loses out to someone like DeSantis, there will be a concerted effort to crucify Biden with it.", ">\n\nMy favorite part of this:\nNo raging tweets from the president making up executive powers. Accusing people of planting evidence and arguing about a deep state conspiracy against him.", ">\n\nI’d be hilarious if he copy pasted one of trumps tweets and ended it with JK I’m not a raving lunatic in a middle of a tantrum.", ">\n\nThat would be some great dark Brandon shit.", ">\n\nI am all for a special counsel being appointed. But a Trump appointee feels like an attempt by Garland to bend over backwards to show just how apolitical he is. If he wanted to reach across the aisle, he couldn’t find a Bush appointee rather than someone appointed by a man who literally tried to upend the Republic and is known for appointing partisan hacks?", ">\n\nThis is how Garland has been acting since appointed. It’s like he’s so terrified of being perceived as biased against repubs that he instead acts biased against dems. He has truly been a failure at AG.. even more of a letdown than Mueller", ">\n\nWell, Garland is a conservative….. people think that he must be left wing because Obama nominated him for SCOTUS. NOPE! - he’s right wing and Obama was throwing the GOP a bone. The GOP just hated Obama so fucking much they slapped down a nominee that aligned with them.", ">\n\nTrue, Biden should have appointed someone else", ">\n\nOnly took a year and a half to appoint one for Trump. Also what about that DOJ policy about not investigating and prosecuting a sitting president which protected the former guy for, what, six years now?", ">\n\nGarland is not our friend.", ">\n\nWho’s friend, exactly? What does friendship have to do with accountability to rules and laws?\nAre you suggesting the DOJ should be aligned and friendly with one particular party or another and so they don’t have to follow rules and laws we expect others to comply with?", ">\n\nGarland is not a friend to justice.\nWhy has Trump not been indicted yet? What's the confusion?", ">\n\n\nWhy has Trump not been indicted yet?\n\nwhy would you expect him to have been? the investigation isn't over yet", ">\n\nit explains why they weren't indicted in the article", ">\n\nSome anonymous lawyer being quoted by CNN is not a definitive explanation at all. It's hearsay and well-meaning bullshit. But when the DOJ was asked? \"A spokesperson for the Department of Justice declined to comment.\" But if you do believe that anonymous source, do you really think they have executive privilege, as your source says? How TF do \"advisors\" get privilege?", ">\n\nthey worked in the White House", ">\n\nBad enough that everyone bought that crap, \"The president is immune to criminal prosecution and subpoenas.\" But now we're going to extend it to anyone who worked in the White House?! Holy cow you can't possibly believe that's a good idea.", ">\n\nAs. We. Would. Expect. 🤷‍♂️ \nCan't wait until Biden whines, makes excuses, tries to get a special master, claims that they where declassifi...... Oh wait. Dems don't do any of that.", ">\n\nIt doesn’t even matter cause republicans don’t care about mishandling classified document- oh wait…now they do.", ">\n\nAs a Democrat I am pretty pissed off at Biden for this, but I would be willing to bet he didn't know the documents were there. \nThat said, I am a strong believer in people being punished for breaking the law, even if they are on my \"team.\"\nIf he broke the law, punish him. \nJust make sure that that miserable, racist orange thing that yells all the time gets his as well.\nThis is the only way to have nice things.", ">\n\nBiden isn't asking for a special grand master or looking for a favorable court... weird.", ">\n\nLove how it took 2 years to do this for trump, and he ain't even president, 2 days for Biden and he is president. \nTo be clear, I'm not saying there shouldn't be an investigation, I'm saying Garland is showing his true colors pretty strongly with the disparity.\nEdit: I'm muting this thread, not trying to get banned for cussing some fool out again. Have a good night y'all.", ">\n\nThe difference will always be that most democrats are just fine with an investigation. Because they care about good governance instead of personality cults.", ">\n\nYeah, it's like Goofus and Gallant. Except Goofus wins every other election and beats your head in with a bat.", ">\n\nWeird how Garland can move with lightning speed when it’s a cover-your-ass political move. Lightning speed.", ">\n\nFucking ridiculous the kid-gloves treatment that Trump gets.", ">\n\nI feel like Trump is about to get his shit kicked in here by Jack Smith in about a month or so when the indictments start coming", ">\n\nI feel like someone has said this every month for the last 6 years. The point is, Trump is untouchable. His angry mob would never succeed in overthrowing the government, but they would likely affect quarterly profits.", ">\n\nThis right here. Gotta keep the wolves fed or they might bite you. \nDomestic Terrorism discourages commerce. They’re fucking cowards.", ">\n\nHow's that Trump indictment coming?", ">\n\nThis is all I'm concerned about. Biden's situation I'm sure will work itself out, but Trump has most certainly committed crimes well beyond and before simply having classified documents. I'm not even saying Biden hasn't broken the law, and he should be dealt with accordingly, but Trump has been a national security hazard and criminal since long before classified documents were found and obstruction was clearly committed to shield them, and this Biden situation should, in no way, get in the way of that case, which seems long overdue.", ">\n\nWeird. I thought the DOJ didn’t want to investigate presidents.", ">\n\nWeird, I recall the DOJ investigating Trump while he was president. And Clinton.", ">\n\nI'm not confused about it. There's no policy against investigating presidents, which is why the numerous investigations into recent sitting presidents happened and were not against any policy. There is a policy against indicting them, though that's not legally binding in any way, just a stated approach that the Justice dept. has outlined in the past.", ">\n\nThe difference between Republicans and Dems is on display again. \nNo cults, no obstructing. Let the legal system do its thing.", ">\n\nSo... he can move fast??", ">\n\nThis proves that Garland is exquisitely sensitive to (Republican) public opinion, which proves to me that he will never indict Trump.", ">\n\nHe has stated many times that no person is above the law. This proves that he's practices what he preaches.", ">\n\nDoes it though? He holds D’s to the rule of law, but drags his feet with R’s.. all to try to seem impartial. He is not holding everyone to the same standard.", ">\n\nthis is a good move despite what wackos in this sub will say. the alternative would be jim jordan and the house intelligence committee running crazy conspiracy theories over this investigation. \nwith this special counsel it will at least be an actual legitimate investigation that will in all likelihood tamper the political effects for biden, as well as create a more legitimate nonpartisan line between this and the trump situation. it won't matter for republicans anyway, but the appearance of impropriety is good!\nobviously there's some hiccup in whatever processes for classified documents there are if they can be mixed in with other documents, put in places they aren't supposed to be, forgotten about, etc. and perhaps that can come to light as a result of both of these investigations and those processes can be revised to address these issues, whether intentionally mishandled or mishandled due to ignorance/an accident.", ">\n\n\nthe alternative would be jim jordan and the house intelligence committee running crazy conspiracy theories over this investigation. \n\ni don't think is an \"either or\" kind of situation. you'll still get jim's hot take of the day once they set up the committee.", ">\n\nsure but as far as document requests and the like it could make it more complicated for the house to go as apeshit as they would otherwise", ">\n\nNo it won't. Because they are not grounded in reality. Just watch.", ">\n\ni mean the law still exists lol", ">\n\nDoes it, though?", ">\n\nyes\ndo you think jim jordan can just walk over to DOJ and grab a bunch of documents and tell the DOJ to fuck off?", ">\n\nNo. But he can tell the House to fuck off when they subpoena him. And that subpoena is referred to the DOJ for enforcement, Merrick Garland can sit on it for weeks and then eventually decline to prosecute. Just like it happened with Meadows.", ">\n\nSure, sounds reasonable. Seems pretty likely somebody committed a crime. \nRemind me again why Garland took 20 extra months to take action when a Republican had documents like this?", ">\n\nMerrick Garland took two years to appoint a special counsel to Trump but he took 1 week to appoint a special counsel to Biden. Is he trying to please the Republican house or someone powerful is really trying hard that Biden don't run again. What an idiotic decision. He is giving fuel to republicans. Any normal person would understand that Biden administration is co-operating with the appropriate authority to resolve this matter. I am so disappointed at Merrick Garland.", ">\n\nSo the day after trump announced he was running he appointed a special counsel. The day after Biden (presumptive candidate) is being investigated, appoint a special counsel.... seems consistent.", ">\n\nI understand the frustration, however, what's the alternative choice? \nDemocrats should let immoral and unethical actions of their members? \nDoesn't it sound ridiculous to suggest being lawful and ethical is losing?\nWhat the democrats need to do is clean up their dependence on big donor moneys by making significant changes to the laws surrounding political campaigns. \nWhen Republican's don't vote for campaign reform, they should be examined carefully by journalists, then shamed for any corruption, and arrested for any crimes.", ">\n\nI like this comment; there is a core of truth and clearheaded observation within that would likely solve most things political, if we can just convince the first national politician to unlatch from the corporate money tit. Someone has to be the wind-dummy, the maverick, and it would certainly be someone with enough independent wealth to tell the corporations and lobbyists to kick rocks. Hell, if even the congressional leadership adopted this tactic, media pressure would steer the others. \nSounds very cool. Who’s first?", ">\n\nI don't know why everyone is making such a big deal about this. Obama declassified all of these documents on his last day in office. He didn't tell anyone, but since he thought it, they are declassified. You can't prove me wrong.", ">\n\nA complete outrage. It took Garland nearly TWO YEARS of begging Trump pretty please for his documents back AND a warrant before a Special Prosecutor could be assigned on Trump, but within two months, he’s out front and center appointing one on Biden? Fuck all Garland apologists.", ">\n\nBefore Trump announced his candidacy for 2024, Garland didn't need a special counsel. He could investigate him directly.", ">\n\n“Could”", ">\n\nwhy are you using quotes? he was and is currently being investigated lol", ">\n\nOh yeah two years and the Georgia election officials weren’t even subpoenaed until last north by Jack Smith. Tell me more of this mythical investigation you think Garland was doing." ]

[ "Do a complete investigation, gather the evidence, follow all procedures and the law, seek justice without fear or favor no matter who is involved. Figure this mess out.", ">\n\nFully agree - and I'd actually like the investigation to be concluded swiftly since the ones being investigated will likely be 100% cooperative. It's not like DoJ will have to be dealing with full on liars and criminals which takes forever to find the answers.", ">\n\nI 100% agree that there ought to be a reasonable investigation into this but I do have to wonder if any of this matters at all given that Biden is currently the president and therefore has not only the right to have classified information but also the ability to declassify that information.\nNot trying to make excuses for the oversight (or lack thereof) of classified documents, but it seems to me as though this requires an investigation into how classified documents are handled during and after individuals have been given such status and after said status has lapsed.\nLet's be perfectly honest, if they had taken different actions on the first set of documents, we likely wouldn't even know about this because there was nobody searching for them.\nHad Biden and his lawyers actually been seriously corrupt, they could easily have disposed of them in a fireplace or down a toilet and no one would know the better.\nThe fact that they brought this directly to the attention of the proper authorities is at least proof that they do have respect for the rule of law and are willing to except the consequences, even if it is going to be used to make political hay while the sun shines.\nThat said, this likely has huge implications for executive privilege, especially to the extent that the former president argued he had. I personally do not have a problem with the minister of th Office of the President being able to be held accountable for their actions but only if it is equally applied across the board and not just something that we will have to deal with when presidents from the Democratic party are being scrutinized.", ">\n\n\nhas not only the right to have classified information but also the ability to declassify that information.\n\nHe does. But apparently these docs were from his Vice Presidency under Obama. So, it's a bit uncertain.\nAnd it really undermines at least one of the central charges you could have lodged against Trump, that everyone that is able to access classified documents has a substantive responsibility to make sure they are handled appropriately. The \"oh, well, we had to leave in a hurry and things just got mixed up\" arguments Trump could have made before would have had little merit - especially when you consider previous historic cases where even a single doc mishandled ended up with someone in jail.\nBut now Trump will be able to dilute that charge completely. He's still fucked on obstruction and everything else (hopefully).", ">\n\nClassified != Compartmentalized, Top Secret, etc.", ">\n\nI agree with you, but I was recently informed that sources say some of these classified documents were classified Top Secret.\nIt does appear as though ABC is confirming that sources are saying that some of these were top secret documents.\n\nSources also told ABC News that the original batch of about 10 documents found in November contains classified vice-presidential briefing papers about foreign countries, some of which were marked top secret.\n\nAnd CNN is not even using the journalistic term source, going so far as to assert that some of these documents were top secret.\n\nSome of the classified documents were “top secret,” the highest level. They were found in three or four boxes that also contained unclassified papers that fall under the Presidential Records Act, CNN has reported.\n\nIf we are going to maintain Integrity about the treatment of top secret classified documents, it is important to hold both sides accountable for their retention of documents.\nThank goodness that Biden's lawyers were up front with the FBI and NARA rather than lying about the retention of documents and obstructing an investigation.\nI really hope that Biden doesn't try to use the executive privilege argument to keep himself from investigation, but this is likely going to be a permanent stain on his reputation and definitely opens up the presidential field in the Democratic Party for 2024.", ">\n\nWhy would this be a permanent stain on Biden’s reputation?", ">\n\nBecause it will 100% be used along with whataboutism to suggest that Biden was going after Trump for the same thing that he was caught doing, regardless of the fact that Biden was not responsible for the investigation into Trump's documents has not been outspoken about the retention of documents, subsequent Lies by his lawyers, and obstruction.\nI'm not saying that it is going to be fair, or even rational but it is going to cause a stain and that will be used to pillory him.", ">\n\nSo in essence, this is only going to be a stain in the minds of people who are rather brainless to begin with….gotcha", ">\n\nIts a stain because it's political ammunition for the other side, not because you or I see it for the opportunitistically timed political assault that it seems to be. In modern politics, being on the defensive is the same as losing. Hillary Clinton's email fiasco likely contributed to the 2016 election results even though she wasn't indicted for a crime.\nThe people on the other side of the political spectrum who would consider this whole fiasco a stain on Biden AREN'T brainless, they're heavily propogandized, and they DO vote. This whole thing will be used to justify any or all of Trump's conduct that should be immediately disqualifying. Expect this to be split-screened with all of Trump's legal woes.\nHopefully Trump won't make it to the 2024 Election season as a viable candidate. If Trump does make it, Trump will use this against Biden. If Trump loses out to someone like DeSantis, there will be a concerted effort to crucify Biden with it.", ">\n\nMy favorite part of this:\nNo raging tweets from the president making up executive powers. Accusing people of planting evidence and arguing about a deep state conspiracy against him.", ">\n\nI’d be hilarious if he copy pasted one of trumps tweets and ended it with JK I’m not a raving lunatic in a middle of a tantrum.", ">\n\nThat would be some great dark Brandon shit.", ">\n\nI am all for a special counsel being appointed. But a Trump appointee feels like an attempt by Garland to bend over backwards to show just how apolitical he is. If he wanted to reach across the aisle, he couldn’t find a Bush appointee rather than someone appointed by a man who literally tried to upend the Republic and is known for appointing partisan hacks?", ">\n\nThis is how Garland has been acting since appointed. It’s like he’s so terrified of being perceived as biased against repubs that he instead acts biased against dems. He has truly been a failure at AG.. even more of a letdown than Mueller", ">\n\nWell, Garland is a conservative….. people think that he must be left wing because Obama nominated him for SCOTUS. NOPE! - he’s right wing and Obama was throwing the GOP a bone. The GOP just hated Obama so fucking much they slapped down a nominee that aligned with them.", ">\n\nTrue, Biden should have appointed someone else", ">\n\nOnly took a year and a half to appoint one for Trump. Also what about that DOJ policy about not investigating and prosecuting a sitting president which protected the former guy for, what, six years now?", ">\n\nGarland is not our friend.", ">\n\nWho’s friend, exactly? What does friendship have to do with accountability to rules and laws?\nAre you suggesting the DOJ should be aligned and friendly with one particular party or another and so they don’t have to follow rules and laws we expect others to comply with?", ">\n\nGarland is not a friend to justice.\nWhy has Trump not been indicted yet? What's the confusion?", ">\n\n\nWhy has Trump not been indicted yet?\n\nwhy would you expect him to have been? the investigation isn't over yet", ">\n\nit explains why they weren't indicted in the article", ">\n\nSome anonymous lawyer being quoted by CNN is not a definitive explanation at all. It's hearsay and well-meaning bullshit. But when the DOJ was asked? \"A spokesperson for the Department of Justice declined to comment.\" But if you do believe that anonymous source, do you really think they have executive privilege, as your source says? How TF do \"advisors\" get privilege?", ">\n\nthey worked in the White House", ">\n\nBad enough that everyone bought that crap, \"The president is immune to criminal prosecution and subpoenas.\" But now we're going to extend it to anyone who worked in the White House?! Holy cow you can't possibly believe that's a good idea.", ">\n\nAs. We. Would. Expect. 🤷‍♂️ \nCan't wait until Biden whines, makes excuses, tries to get a special master, claims that they where declassifi...... Oh wait. Dems don't do any of that.", ">\n\nIt doesn’t even matter cause republicans don’t care about mishandling classified document- oh wait…now they do.", ">\n\nAs a Democrat I am pretty pissed off at Biden for this, but I would be willing to bet he didn't know the documents were there. \nThat said, I am a strong believer in people being punished for breaking the law, even if they are on my \"team.\"\nIf he broke the law, punish him. \nJust make sure that that miserable, racist orange thing that yells all the time gets his as well.\nThis is the only way to have nice things.", ">\n\nBiden isn't asking for a special grand master or looking for a favorable court... weird.", ">\n\nLove how it took 2 years to do this for trump, and he ain't even president, 2 days for Biden and he is president. \nTo be clear, I'm not saying there shouldn't be an investigation, I'm saying Garland is showing his true colors pretty strongly with the disparity.\nEdit: I'm muting this thread, not trying to get banned for cussing some fool out again. Have a good night y'all.", ">\n\nThe difference will always be that most democrats are just fine with an investigation. Because they care about good governance instead of personality cults.", ">\n\nYeah, it's like Goofus and Gallant. Except Goofus wins every other election and beats your head in with a bat.", ">\n\nWeird how Garland can move with lightning speed when it’s a cover-your-ass political move. Lightning speed.", ">\n\nFucking ridiculous the kid-gloves treatment that Trump gets.", ">\n\nI feel like Trump is about to get his shit kicked in here by Jack Smith in about a month or so when the indictments start coming", ">\n\nI feel like someone has said this every month for the last 6 years. The point is, Trump is untouchable. His angry mob would never succeed in overthrowing the government, but they would likely affect quarterly profits.", ">\n\nThis right here. Gotta keep the wolves fed or they might bite you. \nDomestic Terrorism discourages commerce. They’re fucking cowards.", ">\n\nHow's that Trump indictment coming?", ">\n\nThis is all I'm concerned about. Biden's situation I'm sure will work itself out, but Trump has most certainly committed crimes well beyond and before simply having classified documents. I'm not even saying Biden hasn't broken the law, and he should be dealt with accordingly, but Trump has been a national security hazard and criminal since long before classified documents were found and obstruction was clearly committed to shield them, and this Biden situation should, in no way, get in the way of that case, which seems long overdue.", ">\n\nWeird. I thought the DOJ didn’t want to investigate presidents.", ">\n\nWeird, I recall the DOJ investigating Trump while he was president. And Clinton.", ">\n\nI'm not confused about it. There's no policy against investigating presidents, which is why the numerous investigations into recent sitting presidents happened and were not against any policy. There is a policy against indicting them, though that's not legally binding in any way, just a stated approach that the Justice dept. has outlined in the past.", ">\n\nThe difference between Republicans and Dems is on display again. \nNo cults, no obstructing. Let the legal system do its thing.", ">\n\nSo... he can move fast??", ">\n\nThis proves that Garland is exquisitely sensitive to (Republican) public opinion, which proves to me that he will never indict Trump.", ">\n\nHe has stated many times that no person is above the law. This proves that he's practices what he preaches.", ">\n\nDoes it though? He holds D’s to the rule of law, but drags his feet with R’s.. all to try to seem impartial. He is not holding everyone to the same standard.", ">\n\nthis is a good move despite what wackos in this sub will say. the alternative would be jim jordan and the house intelligence committee running crazy conspiracy theories over this investigation. \nwith this special counsel it will at least be an actual legitimate investigation that will in all likelihood tamper the political effects for biden, as well as create a more legitimate nonpartisan line between this and the trump situation. it won't matter for republicans anyway, but the appearance of impropriety is good!\nobviously there's some hiccup in whatever processes for classified documents there are if they can be mixed in with other documents, put in places they aren't supposed to be, forgotten about, etc. and perhaps that can come to light as a result of both of these investigations and those processes can be revised to address these issues, whether intentionally mishandled or mishandled due to ignorance/an accident.", ">\n\n\nthe alternative would be jim jordan and the house intelligence committee running crazy conspiracy theories over this investigation. \n\ni don't think is an \"either or\" kind of situation. you'll still get jim's hot take of the day once they set up the committee.", ">\n\nsure but as far as document requests and the like it could make it more complicated for the house to go as apeshit as they would otherwise", ">\n\nNo it won't. Because they are not grounded in reality. Just watch.", ">\n\ni mean the law still exists lol", ">\n\nDoes it, though?", ">\n\nyes\ndo you think jim jordan can just walk over to DOJ and grab a bunch of documents and tell the DOJ to fuck off?", ">\n\nNo. But he can tell the House to fuck off when they subpoena him. And that subpoena is referred to the DOJ for enforcement, Merrick Garland can sit on it for weeks and then eventually decline to prosecute. Just like it happened with Meadows.", ">\n\nSure, sounds reasonable. Seems pretty likely somebody committed a crime. \nRemind me again why Garland took 20 extra months to take action when a Republican had documents like this?", ">\n\nMerrick Garland took two years to appoint a special counsel to Trump but he took 1 week to appoint a special counsel to Biden. Is he trying to please the Republican house or someone powerful is really trying hard that Biden don't run again. What an idiotic decision. He is giving fuel to republicans. Any normal person would understand that Biden administration is co-operating with the appropriate authority to resolve this matter. I am so disappointed at Merrick Garland.", ">\n\nSo the day after trump announced he was running he appointed a special counsel. The day after Biden (presumptive candidate) is being investigated, appoint a special counsel.... seems consistent.", ">\n\nI understand the frustration, however, what's the alternative choice? \nDemocrats should let immoral and unethical actions of their members? \nDoesn't it sound ridiculous to suggest being lawful and ethical is losing?\nWhat the democrats need to do is clean up their dependence on big donor moneys by making significant changes to the laws surrounding political campaigns. \nWhen Republican's don't vote for campaign reform, they should be examined carefully by journalists, then shamed for any corruption, and arrested for any crimes.", ">\n\nI like this comment; there is a core of truth and clearheaded observation within that would likely solve most things political, if we can just convince the first national politician to unlatch from the corporate money tit. Someone has to be the wind-dummy, the maverick, and it would certainly be someone with enough independent wealth to tell the corporations and lobbyists to kick rocks. Hell, if even the congressional leadership adopted this tactic, media pressure would steer the others. \nSounds very cool. Who’s first?", ">\n\nI don't know why everyone is making such a big deal about this. Obama declassified all of these documents on his last day in office. He didn't tell anyone, but since he thought it, they are declassified. You can't prove me wrong.", ">\n\nA complete outrage. It took Garland nearly TWO YEARS of begging Trump pretty please for his documents back AND a warrant before a Special Prosecutor could be assigned on Trump, but within two months, he’s out front and center appointing one on Biden? Fuck all Garland apologists.", ">\n\nBefore Trump announced his candidacy for 2024, Garland didn't need a special counsel. He could investigate him directly.", ">\n\n“Could”", ">\n\nwhy are you using quotes? he was and is currently being investigated lol", ">\n\nOh yeah two years and the Georgia election officials weren’t even subpoenaed until last north by Jack Smith. Tell me more of this mythical investigation you think Garland was doing.", ">\n\nso you think there was no investigation?" ]

[ "Do a complete investigation, gather the evidence, follow all procedures and the law, seek justice without fear or favor no matter who is involved. Figure this mess out.", ">\n\nFully agree - and I'd actually like the investigation to be concluded swiftly since the ones being investigated will likely be 100% cooperative. It's not like DoJ will have to be dealing with full on liars and criminals which takes forever to find the answers.", ">\n\nI 100% agree that there ought to be a reasonable investigation into this but I do have to wonder if any of this matters at all given that Biden is currently the president and therefore has not only the right to have classified information but also the ability to declassify that information.\nNot trying to make excuses for the oversight (or lack thereof) of classified documents, but it seems to me as though this requires an investigation into how classified documents are handled during and after individuals have been given such status and after said status has lapsed.\nLet's be perfectly honest, if they had taken different actions on the first set of documents, we likely wouldn't even know about this because there was nobody searching for them.\nHad Biden and his lawyers actually been seriously corrupt, they could easily have disposed of them in a fireplace or down a toilet and no one would know the better.\nThe fact that they brought this directly to the attention of the proper authorities is at least proof that they do have respect for the rule of law and are willing to except the consequences, even if it is going to be used to make political hay while the sun shines.\nThat said, this likely has huge implications for executive privilege, especially to the extent that the former president argued he had. I personally do not have a problem with the minister of th Office of the President being able to be held accountable for their actions but only if it is equally applied across the board and not just something that we will have to deal with when presidents from the Democratic party are being scrutinized.", ">\n\n\nhas not only the right to have classified information but also the ability to declassify that information.\n\nHe does. But apparently these docs were from his Vice Presidency under Obama. So, it's a bit uncertain.\nAnd it really undermines at least one of the central charges you could have lodged against Trump, that everyone that is able to access classified documents has a substantive responsibility to make sure they are handled appropriately. The \"oh, well, we had to leave in a hurry and things just got mixed up\" arguments Trump could have made before would have had little merit - especially when you consider previous historic cases where even a single doc mishandled ended up with someone in jail.\nBut now Trump will be able to dilute that charge completely. He's still fucked on obstruction and everything else (hopefully).", ">\n\nClassified != Compartmentalized, Top Secret, etc.", ">\n\nI agree with you, but I was recently informed that sources say some of these classified documents were classified Top Secret.\nIt does appear as though ABC is confirming that sources are saying that some of these were top secret documents.\n\nSources also told ABC News that the original batch of about 10 documents found in November contains classified vice-presidential briefing papers about foreign countries, some of which were marked top secret.\n\nAnd CNN is not even using the journalistic term source, going so far as to assert that some of these documents were top secret.\n\nSome of the classified documents were “top secret,” the highest level. They were found in three or four boxes that also contained unclassified papers that fall under the Presidential Records Act, CNN has reported.\n\nIf we are going to maintain Integrity about the treatment of top secret classified documents, it is important to hold both sides accountable for their retention of documents.\nThank goodness that Biden's lawyers were up front with the FBI and NARA rather than lying about the retention of documents and obstructing an investigation.\nI really hope that Biden doesn't try to use the executive privilege argument to keep himself from investigation, but this is likely going to be a permanent stain on his reputation and definitely opens up the presidential field in the Democratic Party for 2024.", ">\n\nWhy would this be a permanent stain on Biden’s reputation?", ">\n\nBecause it will 100% be used along with whataboutism to suggest that Biden was going after Trump for the same thing that he was caught doing, regardless of the fact that Biden was not responsible for the investigation into Trump's documents has not been outspoken about the retention of documents, subsequent Lies by his lawyers, and obstruction.\nI'm not saying that it is going to be fair, or even rational but it is going to cause a stain and that will be used to pillory him.", ">\n\nSo in essence, this is only going to be a stain in the minds of people who are rather brainless to begin with….gotcha", ">\n\nIts a stain because it's political ammunition for the other side, not because you or I see it for the opportunitistically timed political assault that it seems to be. In modern politics, being on the defensive is the same as losing. Hillary Clinton's email fiasco likely contributed to the 2016 election results even though she wasn't indicted for a crime.\nThe people on the other side of the political spectrum who would consider this whole fiasco a stain on Biden AREN'T brainless, they're heavily propogandized, and they DO vote. This whole thing will be used to justify any or all of Trump's conduct that should be immediately disqualifying. Expect this to be split-screened with all of Trump's legal woes.\nHopefully Trump won't make it to the 2024 Election season as a viable candidate. If Trump does make it, Trump will use this against Biden. If Trump loses out to someone like DeSantis, there will be a concerted effort to crucify Biden with it.", ">\n\nMy favorite part of this:\nNo raging tweets from the president making up executive powers. Accusing people of planting evidence and arguing about a deep state conspiracy against him.", ">\n\nI’d be hilarious if he copy pasted one of trumps tweets and ended it with JK I’m not a raving lunatic in a middle of a tantrum.", ">\n\nThat would be some great dark Brandon shit.", ">\n\nI am all for a special counsel being appointed. But a Trump appointee feels like an attempt by Garland to bend over backwards to show just how apolitical he is. If he wanted to reach across the aisle, he couldn’t find a Bush appointee rather than someone appointed by a man who literally tried to upend the Republic and is known for appointing partisan hacks?", ">\n\nThis is how Garland has been acting since appointed. It’s like he’s so terrified of being perceived as biased against repubs that he instead acts biased against dems. He has truly been a failure at AG.. even more of a letdown than Mueller", ">\n\nWell, Garland is a conservative….. people think that he must be left wing because Obama nominated him for SCOTUS. NOPE! - he’s right wing and Obama was throwing the GOP a bone. The GOP just hated Obama so fucking much they slapped down a nominee that aligned with them.", ">\n\nTrue, Biden should have appointed someone else", ">\n\nOnly took a year and a half to appoint one for Trump. Also what about that DOJ policy about not investigating and prosecuting a sitting president which protected the former guy for, what, six years now?", ">\n\nGarland is not our friend.", ">\n\nWho’s friend, exactly? What does friendship have to do with accountability to rules and laws?\nAre you suggesting the DOJ should be aligned and friendly with one particular party or another and so they don’t have to follow rules and laws we expect others to comply with?", ">\n\nGarland is not a friend to justice.\nWhy has Trump not been indicted yet? What's the confusion?", ">\n\n\nWhy has Trump not been indicted yet?\n\nwhy would you expect him to have been? the investigation isn't over yet", ">\n\nit explains why they weren't indicted in the article", ">\n\nSome anonymous lawyer being quoted by CNN is not a definitive explanation at all. It's hearsay and well-meaning bullshit. But when the DOJ was asked? \"A spokesperson for the Department of Justice declined to comment.\" But if you do believe that anonymous source, do you really think they have executive privilege, as your source says? How TF do \"advisors\" get privilege?", ">\n\nthey worked in the White House", ">\n\nBad enough that everyone bought that crap, \"The president is immune to criminal prosecution and subpoenas.\" But now we're going to extend it to anyone who worked in the White House?! Holy cow you can't possibly believe that's a good idea.", ">\n\nAs. We. Would. Expect. 🤷‍♂️ \nCan't wait until Biden whines, makes excuses, tries to get a special master, claims that they where declassifi...... Oh wait. Dems don't do any of that.", ">\n\nIt doesn’t even matter cause republicans don’t care about mishandling classified document- oh wait…now they do.", ">\n\nAs a Democrat I am pretty pissed off at Biden for this, but I would be willing to bet he didn't know the documents were there. \nThat said, I am a strong believer in people being punished for breaking the law, even if they are on my \"team.\"\nIf he broke the law, punish him. \nJust make sure that that miserable, racist orange thing that yells all the time gets his as well.\nThis is the only way to have nice things.", ">\n\nBiden isn't asking for a special grand master or looking for a favorable court... weird.", ">\n\nLove how it took 2 years to do this for trump, and he ain't even president, 2 days for Biden and he is president. \nTo be clear, I'm not saying there shouldn't be an investigation, I'm saying Garland is showing his true colors pretty strongly with the disparity.\nEdit: I'm muting this thread, not trying to get banned for cussing some fool out again. Have a good night y'all.", ">\n\nThe difference will always be that most democrats are just fine with an investigation. Because they care about good governance instead of personality cults.", ">\n\nYeah, it's like Goofus and Gallant. Except Goofus wins every other election and beats your head in with a bat.", ">\n\nWeird how Garland can move with lightning speed when it’s a cover-your-ass political move. Lightning speed.", ">\n\nFucking ridiculous the kid-gloves treatment that Trump gets.", ">\n\nI feel like Trump is about to get his shit kicked in here by Jack Smith in about a month or so when the indictments start coming", ">\n\nI feel like someone has said this every month for the last 6 years. The point is, Trump is untouchable. His angry mob would never succeed in overthrowing the government, but they would likely affect quarterly profits.", ">\n\nThis right here. Gotta keep the wolves fed or they might bite you. \nDomestic Terrorism discourages commerce. They’re fucking cowards.", ">\n\nHow's that Trump indictment coming?", ">\n\nThis is all I'm concerned about. Biden's situation I'm sure will work itself out, but Trump has most certainly committed crimes well beyond and before simply having classified documents. I'm not even saying Biden hasn't broken the law, and he should be dealt with accordingly, but Trump has been a national security hazard and criminal since long before classified documents were found and obstruction was clearly committed to shield them, and this Biden situation should, in no way, get in the way of that case, which seems long overdue.", ">\n\nWeird. I thought the DOJ didn’t want to investigate presidents.", ">\n\nWeird, I recall the DOJ investigating Trump while he was president. And Clinton.", ">\n\nI'm not confused about it. There's no policy against investigating presidents, which is why the numerous investigations into recent sitting presidents happened and were not against any policy. There is a policy against indicting them, though that's not legally binding in any way, just a stated approach that the Justice dept. has outlined in the past.", ">\n\nThe difference between Republicans and Dems is on display again. \nNo cults, no obstructing. Let the legal system do its thing.", ">\n\nSo... he can move fast??", ">\n\nThis proves that Garland is exquisitely sensitive to (Republican) public opinion, which proves to me that he will never indict Trump.", ">\n\nHe has stated many times that no person is above the law. This proves that he's practices what he preaches.", ">\n\nDoes it though? He holds D’s to the rule of law, but drags his feet with R’s.. all to try to seem impartial. He is not holding everyone to the same standard.", ">\n\nthis is a good move despite what wackos in this sub will say. the alternative would be jim jordan and the house intelligence committee running crazy conspiracy theories over this investigation. \nwith this special counsel it will at least be an actual legitimate investigation that will in all likelihood tamper the political effects for biden, as well as create a more legitimate nonpartisan line between this and the trump situation. it won't matter for republicans anyway, but the appearance of impropriety is good!\nobviously there's some hiccup in whatever processes for classified documents there are if they can be mixed in with other documents, put in places they aren't supposed to be, forgotten about, etc. and perhaps that can come to light as a result of both of these investigations and those processes can be revised to address these issues, whether intentionally mishandled or mishandled due to ignorance/an accident.", ">\n\n\nthe alternative would be jim jordan and the house intelligence committee running crazy conspiracy theories over this investigation. \n\ni don't think is an \"either or\" kind of situation. you'll still get jim's hot take of the day once they set up the committee.", ">\n\nsure but as far as document requests and the like it could make it more complicated for the house to go as apeshit as they would otherwise", ">\n\nNo it won't. Because they are not grounded in reality. Just watch.", ">\n\ni mean the law still exists lol", ">\n\nDoes it, though?", ">\n\nyes\ndo you think jim jordan can just walk over to DOJ and grab a bunch of documents and tell the DOJ to fuck off?", ">\n\nNo. But he can tell the House to fuck off when they subpoena him. And that subpoena is referred to the DOJ for enforcement, Merrick Garland can sit on it for weeks and then eventually decline to prosecute. Just like it happened with Meadows.", ">\n\nSure, sounds reasonable. Seems pretty likely somebody committed a crime. \nRemind me again why Garland took 20 extra months to take action when a Republican had documents like this?", ">\n\nMerrick Garland took two years to appoint a special counsel to Trump but he took 1 week to appoint a special counsel to Biden. Is he trying to please the Republican house or someone powerful is really trying hard that Biden don't run again. What an idiotic decision. He is giving fuel to republicans. Any normal person would understand that Biden administration is co-operating with the appropriate authority to resolve this matter. I am so disappointed at Merrick Garland.", ">\n\nSo the day after trump announced he was running he appointed a special counsel. The day after Biden (presumptive candidate) is being investigated, appoint a special counsel.... seems consistent.", ">\n\nI understand the frustration, however, what's the alternative choice? \nDemocrats should let immoral and unethical actions of their members? \nDoesn't it sound ridiculous to suggest being lawful and ethical is losing?\nWhat the democrats need to do is clean up their dependence on big donor moneys by making significant changes to the laws surrounding political campaigns. \nWhen Republican's don't vote for campaign reform, they should be examined carefully by journalists, then shamed for any corruption, and arrested for any crimes.", ">\n\nI like this comment; there is a core of truth and clearheaded observation within that would likely solve most things political, if we can just convince the first national politician to unlatch from the corporate money tit. Someone has to be the wind-dummy, the maverick, and it would certainly be someone with enough independent wealth to tell the corporations and lobbyists to kick rocks. Hell, if even the congressional leadership adopted this tactic, media pressure would steer the others. \nSounds very cool. Who’s first?", ">\n\nI don't know why everyone is making such a big deal about this. Obama declassified all of these documents on his last day in office. He didn't tell anyone, but since he thought it, they are declassified. You can't prove me wrong.", ">\n\nA complete outrage. It took Garland nearly TWO YEARS of begging Trump pretty please for his documents back AND a warrant before a Special Prosecutor could be assigned on Trump, but within two months, he’s out front and center appointing one on Biden? Fuck all Garland apologists.", ">\n\nBefore Trump announced his candidacy for 2024, Garland didn't need a special counsel. He could investigate him directly.", ">\n\n“Could”", ">\n\nwhy are you using quotes? he was and is currently being investigated lol", ">\n\nOh yeah two years and the Georgia election officials weren’t even subpoenaed until last north by Jack Smith. Tell me more of this mythical investigation you think Garland was doing.", ">\n\nso you think there was no investigation?", ">\n\nSure, as slow walked and as toothless as it could be" ]

[ "Do a complete investigation, gather the evidence, follow all procedures and the law, seek justice without fear or favor no matter who is involved. Figure this mess out.", ">\n\nFully agree - and I'd actually like the investigation to be concluded swiftly since the ones being investigated will likely be 100% cooperative. It's not like DoJ will have to be dealing with full on liars and criminals which takes forever to find the answers.", ">\n\nI 100% agree that there ought to be a reasonable investigation into this but I do have to wonder if any of this matters at all given that Biden is currently the president and therefore has not only the right to have classified information but also the ability to declassify that information.\nNot trying to make excuses for the oversight (or lack thereof) of classified documents, but it seems to me as though this requires an investigation into how classified documents are handled during and after individuals have been given such status and after said status has lapsed.\nLet's be perfectly honest, if they had taken different actions on the first set of documents, we likely wouldn't even know about this because there was nobody searching for them.\nHad Biden and his lawyers actually been seriously corrupt, they could easily have disposed of them in a fireplace or down a toilet and no one would know the better.\nThe fact that they brought this directly to the attention of the proper authorities is at least proof that they do have respect for the rule of law and are willing to except the consequences, even if it is going to be used to make political hay while the sun shines.\nThat said, this likely has huge implications for executive privilege, especially to the extent that the former president argued he had. I personally do not have a problem with the minister of th Office of the President being able to be held accountable for their actions but only if it is equally applied across the board and not just something that we will have to deal with when presidents from the Democratic party are being scrutinized.", ">\n\n\nhas not only the right to have classified information but also the ability to declassify that information.\n\nHe does. But apparently these docs were from his Vice Presidency under Obama. So, it's a bit uncertain.\nAnd it really undermines at least one of the central charges you could have lodged against Trump, that everyone that is able to access classified documents has a substantive responsibility to make sure they are handled appropriately. The \"oh, well, we had to leave in a hurry and things just got mixed up\" arguments Trump could have made before would have had little merit - especially when you consider previous historic cases where even a single doc mishandled ended up with someone in jail.\nBut now Trump will be able to dilute that charge completely. He's still fucked on obstruction and everything else (hopefully).", ">\n\nClassified != Compartmentalized, Top Secret, etc.", ">\n\nI agree with you, but I was recently informed that sources say some of these classified documents were classified Top Secret.\nIt does appear as though ABC is confirming that sources are saying that some of these were top secret documents.\n\nSources also told ABC News that the original batch of about 10 documents found in November contains classified vice-presidential briefing papers about foreign countries, some of which were marked top secret.\n\nAnd CNN is not even using the journalistic term source, going so far as to assert that some of these documents were top secret.\n\nSome of the classified documents were “top secret,” the highest level. They were found in three or four boxes that also contained unclassified papers that fall under the Presidential Records Act, CNN has reported.\n\nIf we are going to maintain Integrity about the treatment of top secret classified documents, it is important to hold both sides accountable for their retention of documents.\nThank goodness that Biden's lawyers were up front with the FBI and NARA rather than lying about the retention of documents and obstructing an investigation.\nI really hope that Biden doesn't try to use the executive privilege argument to keep himself from investigation, but this is likely going to be a permanent stain on his reputation and definitely opens up the presidential field in the Democratic Party for 2024.", ">\n\nWhy would this be a permanent stain on Biden’s reputation?", ">\n\nBecause it will 100% be used along with whataboutism to suggest that Biden was going after Trump for the same thing that he was caught doing, regardless of the fact that Biden was not responsible for the investigation into Trump's documents has not been outspoken about the retention of documents, subsequent Lies by his lawyers, and obstruction.\nI'm not saying that it is going to be fair, or even rational but it is going to cause a stain and that will be used to pillory him.", ">\n\nSo in essence, this is only going to be a stain in the minds of people who are rather brainless to begin with….gotcha", ">\n\nIts a stain because it's political ammunition for the other side, not because you or I see it for the opportunitistically timed political assault that it seems to be. In modern politics, being on the defensive is the same as losing. Hillary Clinton's email fiasco likely contributed to the 2016 election results even though she wasn't indicted for a crime.\nThe people on the other side of the political spectrum who would consider this whole fiasco a stain on Biden AREN'T brainless, they're heavily propogandized, and they DO vote. This whole thing will be used to justify any or all of Trump's conduct that should be immediately disqualifying. Expect this to be split-screened with all of Trump's legal woes.\nHopefully Trump won't make it to the 2024 Election season as a viable candidate. If Trump does make it, Trump will use this against Biden. If Trump loses out to someone like DeSantis, there will be a concerted effort to crucify Biden with it.", ">\n\nMy favorite part of this:\nNo raging tweets from the president making up executive powers. Accusing people of planting evidence and arguing about a deep state conspiracy against him.", ">\n\nI’d be hilarious if he copy pasted one of trumps tweets and ended it with JK I’m not a raving lunatic in a middle of a tantrum.", ">\n\nThat would be some great dark Brandon shit.", ">\n\nI am all for a special counsel being appointed. But a Trump appointee feels like an attempt by Garland to bend over backwards to show just how apolitical he is. If he wanted to reach across the aisle, he couldn’t find a Bush appointee rather than someone appointed by a man who literally tried to upend the Republic and is known for appointing partisan hacks?", ">\n\nThis is how Garland has been acting since appointed. It’s like he’s so terrified of being perceived as biased against repubs that he instead acts biased against dems. He has truly been a failure at AG.. even more of a letdown than Mueller", ">\n\nWell, Garland is a conservative….. people think that he must be left wing because Obama nominated him for SCOTUS. NOPE! - he’s right wing and Obama was throwing the GOP a bone. The GOP just hated Obama so fucking much they slapped down a nominee that aligned with them.", ">\n\nTrue, Biden should have appointed someone else", ">\n\nOnly took a year and a half to appoint one for Trump. Also what about that DOJ policy about not investigating and prosecuting a sitting president which protected the former guy for, what, six years now?", ">\n\nGarland is not our friend.", ">\n\nWho’s friend, exactly? What does friendship have to do with accountability to rules and laws?\nAre you suggesting the DOJ should be aligned and friendly with one particular party or another and so they don’t have to follow rules and laws we expect others to comply with?", ">\n\nGarland is not a friend to justice.\nWhy has Trump not been indicted yet? What's the confusion?", ">\n\n\nWhy has Trump not been indicted yet?\n\nwhy would you expect him to have been? the investigation isn't over yet", ">\n\nit explains why they weren't indicted in the article", ">\n\nSome anonymous lawyer being quoted by CNN is not a definitive explanation at all. It's hearsay and well-meaning bullshit. But when the DOJ was asked? \"A spokesperson for the Department of Justice declined to comment.\" But if you do believe that anonymous source, do you really think they have executive privilege, as your source says? How TF do \"advisors\" get privilege?", ">\n\nthey worked in the White House", ">\n\nBad enough that everyone bought that crap, \"The president is immune to criminal prosecution and subpoenas.\" But now we're going to extend it to anyone who worked in the White House?! Holy cow you can't possibly believe that's a good idea.", ">\n\nAs. We. Would. Expect. 🤷‍♂️ \nCan't wait until Biden whines, makes excuses, tries to get a special master, claims that they where declassifi...... Oh wait. Dems don't do any of that.", ">\n\nIt doesn’t even matter cause republicans don’t care about mishandling classified document- oh wait…now they do.", ">\n\nAs a Democrat I am pretty pissed off at Biden for this, but I would be willing to bet he didn't know the documents were there. \nThat said, I am a strong believer in people being punished for breaking the law, even if they are on my \"team.\"\nIf he broke the law, punish him. \nJust make sure that that miserable, racist orange thing that yells all the time gets his as well.\nThis is the only way to have nice things.", ">\n\nBiden isn't asking for a special grand master or looking for a favorable court... weird.", ">\n\nLove how it took 2 years to do this for trump, and he ain't even president, 2 days for Biden and he is president. \nTo be clear, I'm not saying there shouldn't be an investigation, I'm saying Garland is showing his true colors pretty strongly with the disparity.\nEdit: I'm muting this thread, not trying to get banned for cussing some fool out again. Have a good night y'all.", ">\n\nThe difference will always be that most democrats are just fine with an investigation. Because they care about good governance instead of personality cults.", ">\n\nYeah, it's like Goofus and Gallant. Except Goofus wins every other election and beats your head in with a bat.", ">\n\nWeird how Garland can move with lightning speed when it’s a cover-your-ass political move. Lightning speed.", ">\n\nFucking ridiculous the kid-gloves treatment that Trump gets.", ">\n\nI feel like Trump is about to get his shit kicked in here by Jack Smith in about a month or so when the indictments start coming", ">\n\nI feel like someone has said this every month for the last 6 years. The point is, Trump is untouchable. His angry mob would never succeed in overthrowing the government, but they would likely affect quarterly profits.", ">\n\nThis right here. Gotta keep the wolves fed or they might bite you. \nDomestic Terrorism discourages commerce. They’re fucking cowards.", ">\n\nHow's that Trump indictment coming?", ">\n\nThis is all I'm concerned about. Biden's situation I'm sure will work itself out, but Trump has most certainly committed crimes well beyond and before simply having classified documents. I'm not even saying Biden hasn't broken the law, and he should be dealt with accordingly, but Trump has been a national security hazard and criminal since long before classified documents were found and obstruction was clearly committed to shield them, and this Biden situation should, in no way, get in the way of that case, which seems long overdue.", ">\n\nWeird. I thought the DOJ didn’t want to investigate presidents.", ">\n\nWeird, I recall the DOJ investigating Trump while he was president. And Clinton.", ">\n\nI'm not confused about it. There's no policy against investigating presidents, which is why the numerous investigations into recent sitting presidents happened and were not against any policy. There is a policy against indicting them, though that's not legally binding in any way, just a stated approach that the Justice dept. has outlined in the past.", ">\n\nThe difference between Republicans and Dems is on display again. \nNo cults, no obstructing. Let the legal system do its thing.", ">\n\nSo... he can move fast??", ">\n\nThis proves that Garland is exquisitely sensitive to (Republican) public opinion, which proves to me that he will never indict Trump.", ">\n\nHe has stated many times that no person is above the law. This proves that he's practices what he preaches.", ">\n\nDoes it though? He holds D’s to the rule of law, but drags his feet with R’s.. all to try to seem impartial. He is not holding everyone to the same standard.", ">\n\nthis is a good move despite what wackos in this sub will say. the alternative would be jim jordan and the house intelligence committee running crazy conspiracy theories over this investigation. \nwith this special counsel it will at least be an actual legitimate investigation that will in all likelihood tamper the political effects for biden, as well as create a more legitimate nonpartisan line between this and the trump situation. it won't matter for republicans anyway, but the appearance of impropriety is good!\nobviously there's some hiccup in whatever processes for classified documents there are if they can be mixed in with other documents, put in places they aren't supposed to be, forgotten about, etc. and perhaps that can come to light as a result of both of these investigations and those processes can be revised to address these issues, whether intentionally mishandled or mishandled due to ignorance/an accident.", ">\n\n\nthe alternative would be jim jordan and the house intelligence committee running crazy conspiracy theories over this investigation. \n\ni don't think is an \"either or\" kind of situation. you'll still get jim's hot take of the day once they set up the committee.", ">\n\nsure but as far as document requests and the like it could make it more complicated for the house to go as apeshit as they would otherwise", ">\n\nNo it won't. Because they are not grounded in reality. Just watch.", ">\n\ni mean the law still exists lol", ">\n\nDoes it, though?", ">\n\nyes\ndo you think jim jordan can just walk over to DOJ and grab a bunch of documents and tell the DOJ to fuck off?", ">\n\nNo. But he can tell the House to fuck off when they subpoena him. And that subpoena is referred to the DOJ for enforcement, Merrick Garland can sit on it for weeks and then eventually decline to prosecute. Just like it happened with Meadows.", ">\n\nSure, sounds reasonable. Seems pretty likely somebody committed a crime. \nRemind me again why Garland took 20 extra months to take action when a Republican had documents like this?", ">\n\nMerrick Garland took two years to appoint a special counsel to Trump but he took 1 week to appoint a special counsel to Biden. Is he trying to please the Republican house or someone powerful is really trying hard that Biden don't run again. What an idiotic decision. He is giving fuel to republicans. Any normal person would understand that Biden administration is co-operating with the appropriate authority to resolve this matter. I am so disappointed at Merrick Garland.", ">\n\nSo the day after trump announced he was running he appointed a special counsel. The day after Biden (presumptive candidate) is being investigated, appoint a special counsel.... seems consistent.", ">\n\nI understand the frustration, however, what's the alternative choice? \nDemocrats should let immoral and unethical actions of their members? \nDoesn't it sound ridiculous to suggest being lawful and ethical is losing?\nWhat the democrats need to do is clean up their dependence on big donor moneys by making significant changes to the laws surrounding political campaigns. \nWhen Republican's don't vote for campaign reform, they should be examined carefully by journalists, then shamed for any corruption, and arrested for any crimes.", ">\n\nI like this comment; there is a core of truth and clearheaded observation within that would likely solve most things political, if we can just convince the first national politician to unlatch from the corporate money tit. Someone has to be the wind-dummy, the maverick, and it would certainly be someone with enough independent wealth to tell the corporations and lobbyists to kick rocks. Hell, if even the congressional leadership adopted this tactic, media pressure would steer the others. \nSounds very cool. Who’s first?", ">\n\nI don't know why everyone is making such a big deal about this. Obama declassified all of these documents on his last day in office. He didn't tell anyone, but since he thought it, they are declassified. You can't prove me wrong.", ">\n\nA complete outrage. It took Garland nearly TWO YEARS of begging Trump pretty please for his documents back AND a warrant before a Special Prosecutor could be assigned on Trump, but within two months, he’s out front and center appointing one on Biden? Fuck all Garland apologists.", ">\n\nBefore Trump announced his candidacy for 2024, Garland didn't need a special counsel. He could investigate him directly.", ">\n\n“Could”", ">\n\nwhy are you using quotes? he was and is currently being investigated lol", ">\n\nOh yeah two years and the Georgia election officials weren’t even subpoenaed until last north by Jack Smith. Tell me more of this mythical investigation you think Garland was doing.", ">\n\nso you think there was no investigation?", ">\n\nSure, as slow walked and as toothless as it could be", ">\n\nit's not finished lol" ]

[ "Do a complete investigation, gather the evidence, follow all procedures and the law, seek justice without fear or favor no matter who is involved. Figure this mess out.", ">\n\nFully agree - and I'd actually like the investigation to be concluded swiftly since the ones being investigated will likely be 100% cooperative. It's not like DoJ will have to be dealing with full on liars and criminals which takes forever to find the answers.", ">\n\nI 100% agree that there ought to be a reasonable investigation into this but I do have to wonder if any of this matters at all given that Biden is currently the president and therefore has not only the right to have classified information but also the ability to declassify that information.\nNot trying to make excuses for the oversight (or lack thereof) of classified documents, but it seems to me as though this requires an investigation into how classified documents are handled during and after individuals have been given such status and after said status has lapsed.\nLet's be perfectly honest, if they had taken different actions on the first set of documents, we likely wouldn't even know about this because there was nobody searching for them.\nHad Biden and his lawyers actually been seriously corrupt, they could easily have disposed of them in a fireplace or down a toilet and no one would know the better.\nThe fact that they brought this directly to the attention of the proper authorities is at least proof that they do have respect for the rule of law and are willing to except the consequences, even if it is going to be used to make political hay while the sun shines.\nThat said, this likely has huge implications for executive privilege, especially to the extent that the former president argued he had. I personally do not have a problem with the minister of th Office of the President being able to be held accountable for their actions but only if it is equally applied across the board and not just something that we will have to deal with when presidents from the Democratic party are being scrutinized.", ">\n\n\nhas not only the right to have classified information but also the ability to declassify that information.\n\nHe does. But apparently these docs were from his Vice Presidency under Obama. So, it's a bit uncertain.\nAnd it really undermines at least one of the central charges you could have lodged against Trump, that everyone that is able to access classified documents has a substantive responsibility to make sure they are handled appropriately. The \"oh, well, we had to leave in a hurry and things just got mixed up\" arguments Trump could have made before would have had little merit - especially when you consider previous historic cases where even a single doc mishandled ended up with someone in jail.\nBut now Trump will be able to dilute that charge completely. He's still fucked on obstruction and everything else (hopefully).", ">\n\nClassified != Compartmentalized, Top Secret, etc.", ">\n\nI agree with you, but I was recently informed that sources say some of these classified documents were classified Top Secret.\nIt does appear as though ABC is confirming that sources are saying that some of these were top secret documents.\n\nSources also told ABC News that the original batch of about 10 documents found in November contains classified vice-presidential briefing papers about foreign countries, some of which were marked top secret.\n\nAnd CNN is not even using the journalistic term source, going so far as to assert that some of these documents were top secret.\n\nSome of the classified documents were “top secret,” the highest level. They were found in three or four boxes that also contained unclassified papers that fall under the Presidential Records Act, CNN has reported.\n\nIf we are going to maintain Integrity about the treatment of top secret classified documents, it is important to hold both sides accountable for their retention of documents.\nThank goodness that Biden's lawyers were up front with the FBI and NARA rather than lying about the retention of documents and obstructing an investigation.\nI really hope that Biden doesn't try to use the executive privilege argument to keep himself from investigation, but this is likely going to be a permanent stain on his reputation and definitely opens up the presidential field in the Democratic Party for 2024.", ">\n\nWhy would this be a permanent stain on Biden’s reputation?", ">\n\nBecause it will 100% be used along with whataboutism to suggest that Biden was going after Trump for the same thing that he was caught doing, regardless of the fact that Biden was not responsible for the investigation into Trump's documents has not been outspoken about the retention of documents, subsequent Lies by his lawyers, and obstruction.\nI'm not saying that it is going to be fair, or even rational but it is going to cause a stain and that will be used to pillory him.", ">\n\nSo in essence, this is only going to be a stain in the minds of people who are rather brainless to begin with….gotcha", ">\n\nIts a stain because it's political ammunition for the other side, not because you or I see it for the opportunitistically timed political assault that it seems to be. In modern politics, being on the defensive is the same as losing. Hillary Clinton's email fiasco likely contributed to the 2016 election results even though she wasn't indicted for a crime.\nThe people on the other side of the political spectrum who would consider this whole fiasco a stain on Biden AREN'T brainless, they're heavily propogandized, and they DO vote. This whole thing will be used to justify any or all of Trump's conduct that should be immediately disqualifying. Expect this to be split-screened with all of Trump's legal woes.\nHopefully Trump won't make it to the 2024 Election season as a viable candidate. If Trump does make it, Trump will use this against Biden. If Trump loses out to someone like DeSantis, there will be a concerted effort to crucify Biden with it.", ">\n\nMy favorite part of this:\nNo raging tweets from the president making up executive powers. Accusing people of planting evidence and arguing about a deep state conspiracy against him.", ">\n\nI’d be hilarious if he copy pasted one of trumps tweets and ended it with JK I’m not a raving lunatic in a middle of a tantrum.", ">\n\nThat would be some great dark Brandon shit.", ">\n\nI am all for a special counsel being appointed. But a Trump appointee feels like an attempt by Garland to bend over backwards to show just how apolitical he is. If he wanted to reach across the aisle, he couldn’t find a Bush appointee rather than someone appointed by a man who literally tried to upend the Republic and is known for appointing partisan hacks?", ">\n\nThis is how Garland has been acting since appointed. It’s like he’s so terrified of being perceived as biased against repubs that he instead acts biased against dems. He has truly been a failure at AG.. even more of a letdown than Mueller", ">\n\nWell, Garland is a conservative….. people think that he must be left wing because Obama nominated him for SCOTUS. NOPE! - he’s right wing and Obama was throwing the GOP a bone. The GOP just hated Obama so fucking much they slapped down a nominee that aligned with them.", ">\n\nTrue, Biden should have appointed someone else", ">\n\nOnly took a year and a half to appoint one for Trump. Also what about that DOJ policy about not investigating and prosecuting a sitting president which protected the former guy for, what, six years now?", ">\n\nGarland is not our friend.", ">\n\nWho’s friend, exactly? What does friendship have to do with accountability to rules and laws?\nAre you suggesting the DOJ should be aligned and friendly with one particular party or another and so they don’t have to follow rules and laws we expect others to comply with?", ">\n\nGarland is not a friend to justice.\nWhy has Trump not been indicted yet? What's the confusion?", ">\n\n\nWhy has Trump not been indicted yet?\n\nwhy would you expect him to have been? the investigation isn't over yet", ">\n\nit explains why they weren't indicted in the article", ">\n\nSome anonymous lawyer being quoted by CNN is not a definitive explanation at all. It's hearsay and well-meaning bullshit. But when the DOJ was asked? \"A spokesperson for the Department of Justice declined to comment.\" But if you do believe that anonymous source, do you really think they have executive privilege, as your source says? How TF do \"advisors\" get privilege?", ">\n\nthey worked in the White House", ">\n\nBad enough that everyone bought that crap, \"The president is immune to criminal prosecution and subpoenas.\" But now we're going to extend it to anyone who worked in the White House?! Holy cow you can't possibly believe that's a good idea.", ">\n\nAs. We. Would. Expect. 🤷‍♂️ \nCan't wait until Biden whines, makes excuses, tries to get a special master, claims that they where declassifi...... Oh wait. Dems don't do any of that.", ">\n\nIt doesn’t even matter cause republicans don’t care about mishandling classified document- oh wait…now they do.", ">\n\nAs a Democrat I am pretty pissed off at Biden for this, but I would be willing to bet he didn't know the documents were there. \nThat said, I am a strong believer in people being punished for breaking the law, even if they are on my \"team.\"\nIf he broke the law, punish him. \nJust make sure that that miserable, racist orange thing that yells all the time gets his as well.\nThis is the only way to have nice things.", ">\n\nBiden isn't asking for a special grand master or looking for a favorable court... weird.", ">\n\nLove how it took 2 years to do this for trump, and he ain't even president, 2 days for Biden and he is president. \nTo be clear, I'm not saying there shouldn't be an investigation, I'm saying Garland is showing his true colors pretty strongly with the disparity.\nEdit: I'm muting this thread, not trying to get banned for cussing some fool out again. Have a good night y'all.", ">\n\nThe difference will always be that most democrats are just fine with an investigation. Because they care about good governance instead of personality cults.", ">\n\nYeah, it's like Goofus and Gallant. Except Goofus wins every other election and beats your head in with a bat.", ">\n\nWeird how Garland can move with lightning speed when it’s a cover-your-ass political move. Lightning speed.", ">\n\nFucking ridiculous the kid-gloves treatment that Trump gets.", ">\n\nI feel like Trump is about to get his shit kicked in here by Jack Smith in about a month or so when the indictments start coming", ">\n\nI feel like someone has said this every month for the last 6 years. The point is, Trump is untouchable. His angry mob would never succeed in overthrowing the government, but they would likely affect quarterly profits.", ">\n\nThis right here. Gotta keep the wolves fed or they might bite you. \nDomestic Terrorism discourages commerce. They’re fucking cowards.", ">\n\nHow's that Trump indictment coming?", ">\n\nThis is all I'm concerned about. Biden's situation I'm sure will work itself out, but Trump has most certainly committed crimes well beyond and before simply having classified documents. I'm not even saying Biden hasn't broken the law, and he should be dealt with accordingly, but Trump has been a national security hazard and criminal since long before classified documents were found and obstruction was clearly committed to shield them, and this Biden situation should, in no way, get in the way of that case, which seems long overdue.", ">\n\nWeird. I thought the DOJ didn’t want to investigate presidents.", ">\n\nWeird, I recall the DOJ investigating Trump while he was president. And Clinton.", ">\n\nI'm not confused about it. There's no policy against investigating presidents, which is why the numerous investigations into recent sitting presidents happened and were not against any policy. There is a policy against indicting them, though that's not legally binding in any way, just a stated approach that the Justice dept. has outlined in the past.", ">\n\nThe difference between Republicans and Dems is on display again. \nNo cults, no obstructing. Let the legal system do its thing.", ">\n\nSo... he can move fast??", ">\n\nThis proves that Garland is exquisitely sensitive to (Republican) public opinion, which proves to me that he will never indict Trump.", ">\n\nHe has stated many times that no person is above the law. This proves that he's practices what he preaches.", ">\n\nDoes it though? He holds D’s to the rule of law, but drags his feet with R’s.. all to try to seem impartial. He is not holding everyone to the same standard.", ">\n\nthis is a good move despite what wackos in this sub will say. the alternative would be jim jordan and the house intelligence committee running crazy conspiracy theories over this investigation. \nwith this special counsel it will at least be an actual legitimate investigation that will in all likelihood tamper the political effects for biden, as well as create a more legitimate nonpartisan line between this and the trump situation. it won't matter for republicans anyway, but the appearance of impropriety is good!\nobviously there's some hiccup in whatever processes for classified documents there are if they can be mixed in with other documents, put in places they aren't supposed to be, forgotten about, etc. and perhaps that can come to light as a result of both of these investigations and those processes can be revised to address these issues, whether intentionally mishandled or mishandled due to ignorance/an accident.", ">\n\n\nthe alternative would be jim jordan and the house intelligence committee running crazy conspiracy theories over this investigation. \n\ni don't think is an \"either or\" kind of situation. you'll still get jim's hot take of the day once they set up the committee.", ">\n\nsure but as far as document requests and the like it could make it more complicated for the house to go as apeshit as they would otherwise", ">\n\nNo it won't. Because they are not grounded in reality. Just watch.", ">\n\ni mean the law still exists lol", ">\n\nDoes it, though?", ">\n\nyes\ndo you think jim jordan can just walk over to DOJ and grab a bunch of documents and tell the DOJ to fuck off?", ">\n\nNo. But he can tell the House to fuck off when they subpoena him. And that subpoena is referred to the DOJ for enforcement, Merrick Garland can sit on it for weeks and then eventually decline to prosecute. Just like it happened with Meadows.", ">\n\nSure, sounds reasonable. Seems pretty likely somebody committed a crime. \nRemind me again why Garland took 20 extra months to take action when a Republican had documents like this?", ">\n\nMerrick Garland took two years to appoint a special counsel to Trump but he took 1 week to appoint a special counsel to Biden. Is he trying to please the Republican house or someone powerful is really trying hard that Biden don't run again. What an idiotic decision. He is giving fuel to republicans. Any normal person would understand that Biden administration is co-operating with the appropriate authority to resolve this matter. I am so disappointed at Merrick Garland.", ">\n\nSo the day after trump announced he was running he appointed a special counsel. The day after Biden (presumptive candidate) is being investigated, appoint a special counsel.... seems consistent.", ">\n\nI understand the frustration, however, what's the alternative choice? \nDemocrats should let immoral and unethical actions of their members? \nDoesn't it sound ridiculous to suggest being lawful and ethical is losing?\nWhat the democrats need to do is clean up their dependence on big donor moneys by making significant changes to the laws surrounding political campaigns. \nWhen Republican's don't vote for campaign reform, they should be examined carefully by journalists, then shamed for any corruption, and arrested for any crimes.", ">\n\nI like this comment; there is a core of truth and clearheaded observation within that would likely solve most things political, if we can just convince the first national politician to unlatch from the corporate money tit. Someone has to be the wind-dummy, the maverick, and it would certainly be someone with enough independent wealth to tell the corporations and lobbyists to kick rocks. Hell, if even the congressional leadership adopted this tactic, media pressure would steer the others. \nSounds very cool. Who’s first?", ">\n\nI don't know why everyone is making such a big deal about this. Obama declassified all of these documents on his last day in office. He didn't tell anyone, but since he thought it, they are declassified. You can't prove me wrong.", ">\n\nA complete outrage. It took Garland nearly TWO YEARS of begging Trump pretty please for his documents back AND a warrant before a Special Prosecutor could be assigned on Trump, but within two months, he’s out front and center appointing one on Biden? Fuck all Garland apologists.", ">\n\nBefore Trump announced his candidacy for 2024, Garland didn't need a special counsel. He could investigate him directly.", ">\n\n“Could”", ">\n\nwhy are you using quotes? he was and is currently being investigated lol", ">\n\nOh yeah two years and the Georgia election officials weren’t even subpoenaed until last north by Jack Smith. Tell me more of this mythical investigation you think Garland was doing.", ">\n\nso you think there was no investigation?", ">\n\nSure, as slow walked and as toothless as it could be", ">\n\nit's not finished lol", ">\n\nGArlANd NEedS MoRE TiME tO bUiLd A cASE" ]

[ "Do a complete investigation, gather the evidence, follow all procedures and the law, seek justice without fear or favor no matter who is involved. Figure this mess out.", ">\n\nFully agree - and I'd actually like the investigation to be concluded swiftly since the ones being investigated will likely be 100% cooperative. It's not like DoJ will have to be dealing with full on liars and criminals which takes forever to find the answers.", ">\n\nI 100% agree that there ought to be a reasonable investigation into this but I do have to wonder if any of this matters at all given that Biden is currently the president and therefore has not only the right to have classified information but also the ability to declassify that information.\nNot trying to make excuses for the oversight (or lack thereof) of classified documents, but it seems to me as though this requires an investigation into how classified documents are handled during and after individuals have been given such status and after said status has lapsed.\nLet's be perfectly honest, if they had taken different actions on the first set of documents, we likely wouldn't even know about this because there was nobody searching for them.\nHad Biden and his lawyers actually been seriously corrupt, they could easily have disposed of them in a fireplace or down a toilet and no one would know the better.\nThe fact that they brought this directly to the attention of the proper authorities is at least proof that they do have respect for the rule of law and are willing to except the consequences, even if it is going to be used to make political hay while the sun shines.\nThat said, this likely has huge implications for executive privilege, especially to the extent that the former president argued he had. I personally do not have a problem with the minister of th Office of the President being able to be held accountable for their actions but only if it is equally applied across the board and not just something that we will have to deal with when presidents from the Democratic party are being scrutinized.", ">\n\n\nhas not only the right to have classified information but also the ability to declassify that information.\n\nHe does. But apparently these docs were from his Vice Presidency under Obama. So, it's a bit uncertain.\nAnd it really undermines at least one of the central charges you could have lodged against Trump, that everyone that is able to access classified documents has a substantive responsibility to make sure they are handled appropriately. The \"oh, well, we had to leave in a hurry and things just got mixed up\" arguments Trump could have made before would have had little merit - especially when you consider previous historic cases where even a single doc mishandled ended up with someone in jail.\nBut now Trump will be able to dilute that charge completely. He's still fucked on obstruction and everything else (hopefully).", ">\n\nClassified != Compartmentalized, Top Secret, etc.", ">\n\nI agree with you, but I was recently informed that sources say some of these classified documents were classified Top Secret.\nIt does appear as though ABC is confirming that sources are saying that some of these were top secret documents.\n\nSources also told ABC News that the original batch of about 10 documents found in November contains classified vice-presidential briefing papers about foreign countries, some of which were marked top secret.\n\nAnd CNN is not even using the journalistic term source, going so far as to assert that some of these documents were top secret.\n\nSome of the classified documents were “top secret,” the highest level. They were found in three or four boxes that also contained unclassified papers that fall under the Presidential Records Act, CNN has reported.\n\nIf we are going to maintain Integrity about the treatment of top secret classified documents, it is important to hold both sides accountable for their retention of documents.\nThank goodness that Biden's lawyers were up front with the FBI and NARA rather than lying about the retention of documents and obstructing an investigation.\nI really hope that Biden doesn't try to use the executive privilege argument to keep himself from investigation, but this is likely going to be a permanent stain on his reputation and definitely opens up the presidential field in the Democratic Party for 2024.", ">\n\nWhy would this be a permanent stain on Biden’s reputation?", ">\n\nBecause it will 100% be used along with whataboutism to suggest that Biden was going after Trump for the same thing that he was caught doing, regardless of the fact that Biden was not responsible for the investigation into Trump's documents has not been outspoken about the retention of documents, subsequent Lies by his lawyers, and obstruction.\nI'm not saying that it is going to be fair, or even rational but it is going to cause a stain and that will be used to pillory him.", ">\n\nSo in essence, this is only going to be a stain in the minds of people who are rather brainless to begin with….gotcha", ">\n\nIts a stain because it's political ammunition for the other side, not because you or I see it for the opportunitistically timed political assault that it seems to be. In modern politics, being on the defensive is the same as losing. Hillary Clinton's email fiasco likely contributed to the 2016 election results even though she wasn't indicted for a crime.\nThe people on the other side of the political spectrum who would consider this whole fiasco a stain on Biden AREN'T brainless, they're heavily propogandized, and they DO vote. This whole thing will be used to justify any or all of Trump's conduct that should be immediately disqualifying. Expect this to be split-screened with all of Trump's legal woes.\nHopefully Trump won't make it to the 2024 Election season as a viable candidate. If Trump does make it, Trump will use this against Biden. If Trump loses out to someone like DeSantis, there will be a concerted effort to crucify Biden with it.", ">\n\nMy favorite part of this:\nNo raging tweets from the president making up executive powers. Accusing people of planting evidence and arguing about a deep state conspiracy against him.", ">\n\nI’d be hilarious if he copy pasted one of trumps tweets and ended it with JK I’m not a raving lunatic in a middle of a tantrum.", ">\n\nThat would be some great dark Brandon shit.", ">\n\nI am all for a special counsel being appointed. But a Trump appointee feels like an attempt by Garland to bend over backwards to show just how apolitical he is. If he wanted to reach across the aisle, he couldn’t find a Bush appointee rather than someone appointed by a man who literally tried to upend the Republic and is known for appointing partisan hacks?", ">\n\nThis is how Garland has been acting since appointed. It’s like he’s so terrified of being perceived as biased against repubs that he instead acts biased against dems. He has truly been a failure at AG.. even more of a letdown than Mueller", ">\n\nWell, Garland is a conservative….. people think that he must be left wing because Obama nominated him for SCOTUS. NOPE! - he’s right wing and Obama was throwing the GOP a bone. The GOP just hated Obama so fucking much they slapped down a nominee that aligned with them.", ">\n\nTrue, Biden should have appointed someone else", ">\n\nOnly took a year and a half to appoint one for Trump. Also what about that DOJ policy about not investigating and prosecuting a sitting president which protected the former guy for, what, six years now?", ">\n\nGarland is not our friend.", ">\n\nWho’s friend, exactly? What does friendship have to do with accountability to rules and laws?\nAre you suggesting the DOJ should be aligned and friendly with one particular party or another and so they don’t have to follow rules and laws we expect others to comply with?", ">\n\nGarland is not a friend to justice.\nWhy has Trump not been indicted yet? What's the confusion?", ">\n\n\nWhy has Trump not been indicted yet?\n\nwhy would you expect him to have been? the investigation isn't over yet", ">\n\nit explains why they weren't indicted in the article", ">\n\nSome anonymous lawyer being quoted by CNN is not a definitive explanation at all. It's hearsay and well-meaning bullshit. But when the DOJ was asked? \"A spokesperson for the Department of Justice declined to comment.\" But if you do believe that anonymous source, do you really think they have executive privilege, as your source says? How TF do \"advisors\" get privilege?", ">\n\nthey worked in the White House", ">\n\nBad enough that everyone bought that crap, \"The president is immune to criminal prosecution and subpoenas.\" But now we're going to extend it to anyone who worked in the White House?! Holy cow you can't possibly believe that's a good idea.", ">\n\nAs. We. Would. Expect. 🤷‍♂️ \nCan't wait until Biden whines, makes excuses, tries to get a special master, claims that they where declassifi...... Oh wait. Dems don't do any of that.", ">\n\nIt doesn’t even matter cause republicans don’t care about mishandling classified document- oh wait…now they do.", ">\n\nAs a Democrat I am pretty pissed off at Biden for this, but I would be willing to bet he didn't know the documents were there. \nThat said, I am a strong believer in people being punished for breaking the law, even if they are on my \"team.\"\nIf he broke the law, punish him. \nJust make sure that that miserable, racist orange thing that yells all the time gets his as well.\nThis is the only way to have nice things.", ">\n\nBiden isn't asking for a special grand master or looking for a favorable court... weird.", ">\n\nLove how it took 2 years to do this for trump, and he ain't even president, 2 days for Biden and he is president. \nTo be clear, I'm not saying there shouldn't be an investigation, I'm saying Garland is showing his true colors pretty strongly with the disparity.\nEdit: I'm muting this thread, not trying to get banned for cussing some fool out again. Have a good night y'all.", ">\n\nThe difference will always be that most democrats are just fine with an investigation. Because they care about good governance instead of personality cults.", ">\n\nYeah, it's like Goofus and Gallant. Except Goofus wins every other election and beats your head in with a bat.", ">\n\nWeird how Garland can move with lightning speed when it’s a cover-your-ass political move. Lightning speed.", ">\n\nFucking ridiculous the kid-gloves treatment that Trump gets.", ">\n\nI feel like Trump is about to get his shit kicked in here by Jack Smith in about a month or so when the indictments start coming", ">\n\nI feel like someone has said this every month for the last 6 years. The point is, Trump is untouchable. His angry mob would never succeed in overthrowing the government, but they would likely affect quarterly profits.", ">\n\nThis right here. Gotta keep the wolves fed or they might bite you. \nDomestic Terrorism discourages commerce. They’re fucking cowards.", ">\n\nHow's that Trump indictment coming?", ">\n\nThis is all I'm concerned about. Biden's situation I'm sure will work itself out, but Trump has most certainly committed crimes well beyond and before simply having classified documents. I'm not even saying Biden hasn't broken the law, and he should be dealt with accordingly, but Trump has been a national security hazard and criminal since long before classified documents were found and obstruction was clearly committed to shield them, and this Biden situation should, in no way, get in the way of that case, which seems long overdue.", ">\n\nWeird. I thought the DOJ didn’t want to investigate presidents.", ">\n\nWeird, I recall the DOJ investigating Trump while he was president. And Clinton.", ">\n\nI'm not confused about it. There's no policy against investigating presidents, which is why the numerous investigations into recent sitting presidents happened and were not against any policy. There is a policy against indicting them, though that's not legally binding in any way, just a stated approach that the Justice dept. has outlined in the past.", ">\n\nThe difference between Republicans and Dems is on display again. \nNo cults, no obstructing. Let the legal system do its thing.", ">\n\nSo... he can move fast??", ">\n\nThis proves that Garland is exquisitely sensitive to (Republican) public opinion, which proves to me that he will never indict Trump.", ">\n\nHe has stated many times that no person is above the law. This proves that he's practices what he preaches.", ">\n\nDoes it though? He holds D’s to the rule of law, but drags his feet with R’s.. all to try to seem impartial. He is not holding everyone to the same standard.", ">\n\nthis is a good move despite what wackos in this sub will say. the alternative would be jim jordan and the house intelligence committee running crazy conspiracy theories over this investigation. \nwith this special counsel it will at least be an actual legitimate investigation that will in all likelihood tamper the political effects for biden, as well as create a more legitimate nonpartisan line between this and the trump situation. it won't matter for republicans anyway, but the appearance of impropriety is good!\nobviously there's some hiccup in whatever processes for classified documents there are if they can be mixed in with other documents, put in places they aren't supposed to be, forgotten about, etc. and perhaps that can come to light as a result of both of these investigations and those processes can be revised to address these issues, whether intentionally mishandled or mishandled due to ignorance/an accident.", ">\n\n\nthe alternative would be jim jordan and the house intelligence committee running crazy conspiracy theories over this investigation. \n\ni don't think is an \"either or\" kind of situation. you'll still get jim's hot take of the day once they set up the committee.", ">\n\nsure but as far as document requests and the like it could make it more complicated for the house to go as apeshit as they would otherwise", ">\n\nNo it won't. Because they are not grounded in reality. Just watch.", ">\n\ni mean the law still exists lol", ">\n\nDoes it, though?", ">\n\nyes\ndo you think jim jordan can just walk over to DOJ and grab a bunch of documents and tell the DOJ to fuck off?", ">\n\nNo. But he can tell the House to fuck off when they subpoena him. And that subpoena is referred to the DOJ for enforcement, Merrick Garland can sit on it for weeks and then eventually decline to prosecute. Just like it happened with Meadows.", ">\n\nSure, sounds reasonable. Seems pretty likely somebody committed a crime. \nRemind me again why Garland took 20 extra months to take action when a Republican had documents like this?", ">\n\nMerrick Garland took two years to appoint a special counsel to Trump but he took 1 week to appoint a special counsel to Biden. Is he trying to please the Republican house or someone powerful is really trying hard that Biden don't run again. What an idiotic decision. He is giving fuel to republicans. Any normal person would understand that Biden administration is co-operating with the appropriate authority to resolve this matter. I am so disappointed at Merrick Garland.", ">\n\nSo the day after trump announced he was running he appointed a special counsel. The day after Biden (presumptive candidate) is being investigated, appoint a special counsel.... seems consistent.", ">\n\nI understand the frustration, however, what's the alternative choice? \nDemocrats should let immoral and unethical actions of their members? \nDoesn't it sound ridiculous to suggest being lawful and ethical is losing?\nWhat the democrats need to do is clean up their dependence on big donor moneys by making significant changes to the laws surrounding political campaigns. \nWhen Republican's don't vote for campaign reform, they should be examined carefully by journalists, then shamed for any corruption, and arrested for any crimes.", ">\n\nI like this comment; there is a core of truth and clearheaded observation within that would likely solve most things political, if we can just convince the first national politician to unlatch from the corporate money tit. Someone has to be the wind-dummy, the maverick, and it would certainly be someone with enough independent wealth to tell the corporations and lobbyists to kick rocks. Hell, if even the congressional leadership adopted this tactic, media pressure would steer the others. \nSounds very cool. Who’s first?", ">\n\nI don't know why everyone is making such a big deal about this. Obama declassified all of these documents on his last day in office. He didn't tell anyone, but since he thought it, they are declassified. You can't prove me wrong.", ">\n\nA complete outrage. It took Garland nearly TWO YEARS of begging Trump pretty please for his documents back AND a warrant before a Special Prosecutor could be assigned on Trump, but within two months, he’s out front and center appointing one on Biden? Fuck all Garland apologists.", ">\n\nBefore Trump announced his candidacy for 2024, Garland didn't need a special counsel. He could investigate him directly.", ">\n\n“Could”", ">\n\nwhy are you using quotes? he was and is currently being investigated lol", ">\n\nOh yeah two years and the Georgia election officials weren’t even subpoenaed until last north by Jack Smith. Tell me more of this mythical investigation you think Garland was doing.", ">\n\nso you think there was no investigation?", ">\n\nSure, as slow walked and as toothless as it could be", ">\n\nit's not finished lol", ">\n\nGArlANd NEedS MoRE TiME tO bUiLd A cASE", ">\n\nand what exactly are your qualifications for investigating and prosecuting someone in federal court for a potential violation of the espionage act/obstruction of justice?" ]

[ "Do a complete investigation, gather the evidence, follow all procedures and the law, seek justice without fear or favor no matter who is involved. Figure this mess out.", ">\n\nFully agree - and I'd actually like the investigation to be concluded swiftly since the ones being investigated will likely be 100% cooperative. It's not like DoJ will have to be dealing with full on liars and criminals which takes forever to find the answers.", ">\n\nI 100% agree that there ought to be a reasonable investigation into this but I do have to wonder if any of this matters at all given that Biden is currently the president and therefore has not only the right to have classified information but also the ability to declassify that information.\nNot trying to make excuses for the oversight (or lack thereof) of classified documents, but it seems to me as though this requires an investigation into how classified documents are handled during and after individuals have been given such status and after said status has lapsed.\nLet's be perfectly honest, if they had taken different actions on the first set of documents, we likely wouldn't even know about this because there was nobody searching for them.\nHad Biden and his lawyers actually been seriously corrupt, they could easily have disposed of them in a fireplace or down a toilet and no one would know the better.\nThe fact that they brought this directly to the attention of the proper authorities is at least proof that they do have respect for the rule of law and are willing to except the consequences, even if it is going to be used to make political hay while the sun shines.\nThat said, this likely has huge implications for executive privilege, especially to the extent that the former president argued he had. I personally do not have a problem with the minister of th Office of the President being able to be held accountable for their actions but only if it is equally applied across the board and not just something that we will have to deal with when presidents from the Democratic party are being scrutinized.", ">\n\n\nhas not only the right to have classified information but also the ability to declassify that information.\n\nHe does. But apparently these docs were from his Vice Presidency under Obama. So, it's a bit uncertain.\nAnd it really undermines at least one of the central charges you could have lodged against Trump, that everyone that is able to access classified documents has a substantive responsibility to make sure they are handled appropriately. The \"oh, well, we had to leave in a hurry and things just got mixed up\" arguments Trump could have made before would have had little merit - especially when you consider previous historic cases where even a single doc mishandled ended up with someone in jail.\nBut now Trump will be able to dilute that charge completely. He's still fucked on obstruction and everything else (hopefully).", ">\n\nClassified != Compartmentalized, Top Secret, etc.", ">\n\nI agree with you, but I was recently informed that sources say some of these classified documents were classified Top Secret.\nIt does appear as though ABC is confirming that sources are saying that some of these were top secret documents.\n\nSources also told ABC News that the original batch of about 10 documents found in November contains classified vice-presidential briefing papers about foreign countries, some of which were marked top secret.\n\nAnd CNN is not even using the journalistic term source, going so far as to assert that some of these documents were top secret.\n\nSome of the classified documents were “top secret,” the highest level. They were found in three or four boxes that also contained unclassified papers that fall under the Presidential Records Act, CNN has reported.\n\nIf we are going to maintain Integrity about the treatment of top secret classified documents, it is important to hold both sides accountable for their retention of documents.\nThank goodness that Biden's lawyers were up front with the FBI and NARA rather than lying about the retention of documents and obstructing an investigation.\nI really hope that Biden doesn't try to use the executive privilege argument to keep himself from investigation, but this is likely going to be a permanent stain on his reputation and definitely opens up the presidential field in the Democratic Party for 2024.", ">\n\nWhy would this be a permanent stain on Biden’s reputation?", ">\n\nBecause it will 100% be used along with whataboutism to suggest that Biden was going after Trump for the same thing that he was caught doing, regardless of the fact that Biden was not responsible for the investigation into Trump's documents has not been outspoken about the retention of documents, subsequent Lies by his lawyers, and obstruction.\nI'm not saying that it is going to be fair, or even rational but it is going to cause a stain and that will be used to pillory him.", ">\n\nSo in essence, this is only going to be a stain in the minds of people who are rather brainless to begin with….gotcha", ">\n\nIts a stain because it's political ammunition for the other side, not because you or I see it for the opportunitistically timed political assault that it seems to be. In modern politics, being on the defensive is the same as losing. Hillary Clinton's email fiasco likely contributed to the 2016 election results even though she wasn't indicted for a crime.\nThe people on the other side of the political spectrum who would consider this whole fiasco a stain on Biden AREN'T brainless, they're heavily propogandized, and they DO vote. This whole thing will be used to justify any or all of Trump's conduct that should be immediately disqualifying. Expect this to be split-screened with all of Trump's legal woes.\nHopefully Trump won't make it to the 2024 Election season as a viable candidate. If Trump does make it, Trump will use this against Biden. If Trump loses out to someone like DeSantis, there will be a concerted effort to crucify Biden with it.", ">\n\nMy favorite part of this:\nNo raging tweets from the president making up executive powers. Accusing people of planting evidence and arguing about a deep state conspiracy against him.", ">\n\nI’d be hilarious if he copy pasted one of trumps tweets and ended it with JK I’m not a raving lunatic in a middle of a tantrum.", ">\n\nThat would be some great dark Brandon shit.", ">\n\nI am all for a special counsel being appointed. But a Trump appointee feels like an attempt by Garland to bend over backwards to show just how apolitical he is. If he wanted to reach across the aisle, he couldn’t find a Bush appointee rather than someone appointed by a man who literally tried to upend the Republic and is known for appointing partisan hacks?", ">\n\nThis is how Garland has been acting since appointed. It’s like he’s so terrified of being perceived as biased against repubs that he instead acts biased against dems. He has truly been a failure at AG.. even more of a letdown than Mueller", ">\n\nWell, Garland is a conservative….. people think that he must be left wing because Obama nominated him for SCOTUS. NOPE! - he’s right wing and Obama was throwing the GOP a bone. The GOP just hated Obama so fucking much they slapped down a nominee that aligned with them.", ">\n\nTrue, Biden should have appointed someone else", ">\n\nOnly took a year and a half to appoint one for Trump. Also what about that DOJ policy about not investigating and prosecuting a sitting president which protected the former guy for, what, six years now?", ">\n\nGarland is not our friend.", ">\n\nWho’s friend, exactly? What does friendship have to do with accountability to rules and laws?\nAre you suggesting the DOJ should be aligned and friendly with one particular party or another and so they don’t have to follow rules and laws we expect others to comply with?", ">\n\nGarland is not a friend to justice.\nWhy has Trump not been indicted yet? What's the confusion?", ">\n\n\nWhy has Trump not been indicted yet?\n\nwhy would you expect him to have been? the investigation isn't over yet", ">\n\nit explains why they weren't indicted in the article", ">\n\nSome anonymous lawyer being quoted by CNN is not a definitive explanation at all. It's hearsay and well-meaning bullshit. But when the DOJ was asked? \"A spokesperson for the Department of Justice declined to comment.\" But if you do believe that anonymous source, do you really think they have executive privilege, as your source says? How TF do \"advisors\" get privilege?", ">\n\nthey worked in the White House", ">\n\nBad enough that everyone bought that crap, \"The president is immune to criminal prosecution and subpoenas.\" But now we're going to extend it to anyone who worked in the White House?! Holy cow you can't possibly believe that's a good idea.", ">\n\nAs. We. Would. Expect. 🤷‍♂️ \nCan't wait until Biden whines, makes excuses, tries to get a special master, claims that they where declassifi...... Oh wait. Dems don't do any of that.", ">\n\nIt doesn’t even matter cause republicans don’t care about mishandling classified document- oh wait…now they do.", ">\n\nAs a Democrat I am pretty pissed off at Biden for this, but I would be willing to bet he didn't know the documents were there. \nThat said, I am a strong believer in people being punished for breaking the law, even if they are on my \"team.\"\nIf he broke the law, punish him. \nJust make sure that that miserable, racist orange thing that yells all the time gets his as well.\nThis is the only way to have nice things.", ">\n\nBiden isn't asking for a special grand master or looking for a favorable court... weird.", ">\n\nLove how it took 2 years to do this for trump, and he ain't even president, 2 days for Biden and he is president. \nTo be clear, I'm not saying there shouldn't be an investigation, I'm saying Garland is showing his true colors pretty strongly with the disparity.\nEdit: I'm muting this thread, not trying to get banned for cussing some fool out again. Have a good night y'all.", ">\n\nThe difference will always be that most democrats are just fine with an investigation. Because they care about good governance instead of personality cults.", ">\n\nYeah, it's like Goofus and Gallant. Except Goofus wins every other election and beats your head in with a bat.", ">\n\nWeird how Garland can move with lightning speed when it’s a cover-your-ass political move. Lightning speed.", ">\n\nFucking ridiculous the kid-gloves treatment that Trump gets.", ">\n\nI feel like Trump is about to get his shit kicked in here by Jack Smith in about a month or so when the indictments start coming", ">\n\nI feel like someone has said this every month for the last 6 years. The point is, Trump is untouchable. His angry mob would never succeed in overthrowing the government, but they would likely affect quarterly profits.", ">\n\nThis right here. Gotta keep the wolves fed or they might bite you. \nDomestic Terrorism discourages commerce. They’re fucking cowards.", ">\n\nHow's that Trump indictment coming?", ">\n\nThis is all I'm concerned about. Biden's situation I'm sure will work itself out, but Trump has most certainly committed crimes well beyond and before simply having classified documents. I'm not even saying Biden hasn't broken the law, and he should be dealt with accordingly, but Trump has been a national security hazard and criminal since long before classified documents were found and obstruction was clearly committed to shield them, and this Biden situation should, in no way, get in the way of that case, which seems long overdue.", ">\n\nWeird. I thought the DOJ didn’t want to investigate presidents.", ">\n\nWeird, I recall the DOJ investigating Trump while he was president. And Clinton.", ">\n\nI'm not confused about it. There's no policy against investigating presidents, which is why the numerous investigations into recent sitting presidents happened and were not against any policy. There is a policy against indicting them, though that's not legally binding in any way, just a stated approach that the Justice dept. has outlined in the past.", ">\n\nThe difference between Republicans and Dems is on display again. \nNo cults, no obstructing. Let the legal system do its thing.", ">\n\nSo... he can move fast??", ">\n\nThis proves that Garland is exquisitely sensitive to (Republican) public opinion, which proves to me that he will never indict Trump.", ">\n\nHe has stated many times that no person is above the law. This proves that he's practices what he preaches.", ">\n\nDoes it though? He holds D’s to the rule of law, but drags his feet with R’s.. all to try to seem impartial. He is not holding everyone to the same standard.", ">\n\nthis is a good move despite what wackos in this sub will say. the alternative would be jim jordan and the house intelligence committee running crazy conspiracy theories over this investigation. \nwith this special counsel it will at least be an actual legitimate investigation that will in all likelihood tamper the political effects for biden, as well as create a more legitimate nonpartisan line between this and the trump situation. it won't matter for republicans anyway, but the appearance of impropriety is good!\nobviously there's some hiccup in whatever processes for classified documents there are if they can be mixed in with other documents, put in places they aren't supposed to be, forgotten about, etc. and perhaps that can come to light as a result of both of these investigations and those processes can be revised to address these issues, whether intentionally mishandled or mishandled due to ignorance/an accident.", ">\n\n\nthe alternative would be jim jordan and the house intelligence committee running crazy conspiracy theories over this investigation. \n\ni don't think is an \"either or\" kind of situation. you'll still get jim's hot take of the day once they set up the committee.", ">\n\nsure but as far as document requests and the like it could make it more complicated for the house to go as apeshit as they would otherwise", ">\n\nNo it won't. Because they are not grounded in reality. Just watch.", ">\n\ni mean the law still exists lol", ">\n\nDoes it, though?", ">\n\nyes\ndo you think jim jordan can just walk over to DOJ and grab a bunch of documents and tell the DOJ to fuck off?", ">\n\nNo. But he can tell the House to fuck off when they subpoena him. And that subpoena is referred to the DOJ for enforcement, Merrick Garland can sit on it for weeks and then eventually decline to prosecute. Just like it happened with Meadows.", ">\n\nSure, sounds reasonable. Seems pretty likely somebody committed a crime. \nRemind me again why Garland took 20 extra months to take action when a Republican had documents like this?", ">\n\nMerrick Garland took two years to appoint a special counsel to Trump but he took 1 week to appoint a special counsel to Biden. Is he trying to please the Republican house or someone powerful is really trying hard that Biden don't run again. What an idiotic decision. He is giving fuel to republicans. Any normal person would understand that Biden administration is co-operating with the appropriate authority to resolve this matter. I am so disappointed at Merrick Garland.", ">\n\nSo the day after trump announced he was running he appointed a special counsel. The day after Biden (presumptive candidate) is being investigated, appoint a special counsel.... seems consistent.", ">\n\nI understand the frustration, however, what's the alternative choice? \nDemocrats should let immoral and unethical actions of their members? \nDoesn't it sound ridiculous to suggest being lawful and ethical is losing?\nWhat the democrats need to do is clean up their dependence on big donor moneys by making significant changes to the laws surrounding political campaigns. \nWhen Republican's don't vote for campaign reform, they should be examined carefully by journalists, then shamed for any corruption, and arrested for any crimes.", ">\n\nI like this comment; there is a core of truth and clearheaded observation within that would likely solve most things political, if we can just convince the first national politician to unlatch from the corporate money tit. Someone has to be the wind-dummy, the maverick, and it would certainly be someone with enough independent wealth to tell the corporations and lobbyists to kick rocks. Hell, if even the congressional leadership adopted this tactic, media pressure would steer the others. \nSounds very cool. Who’s first?", ">\n\nI don't know why everyone is making such a big deal about this. Obama declassified all of these documents on his last day in office. He didn't tell anyone, but since he thought it, they are declassified. You can't prove me wrong.", ">\n\nA complete outrage. It took Garland nearly TWO YEARS of begging Trump pretty please for his documents back AND a warrant before a Special Prosecutor could be assigned on Trump, but within two months, he’s out front and center appointing one on Biden? Fuck all Garland apologists.", ">\n\nBefore Trump announced his candidacy for 2024, Garland didn't need a special counsel. He could investigate him directly.", ">\n\n“Could”", ">\n\nwhy are you using quotes? he was and is currently being investigated lol", ">\n\nOh yeah two years and the Georgia election officials weren’t even subpoenaed until last north by Jack Smith. Tell me more of this mythical investigation you think Garland was doing.", ">\n\nso you think there was no investigation?", ">\n\nSure, as slow walked and as toothless as it could be", ">\n\nit's not finished lol", ">\n\nGArlANd NEedS MoRE TiME tO bUiLd A cASE", ">\n\nand what exactly are your qualifications for investigating and prosecuting someone in federal court for a potential violation of the espionage act/obstruction of justice?", ">\n\nTrump and Biden should both be investigated for illegally having classified documents, the more serious crimes are the lying and obstruction of justice. If you steal a cookie from the cookie jar that’s a “crime” but if you confess to you parents it’s not as bad as if you’re parents catch you and confront you and you lie and try to blame someone else or say they have no authority over cookies and tell them to f-off. Your parents won’t be happy about either situation but one is clearly exponentially worse." ]

[ "Do a complete investigation, gather the evidence, follow all procedures and the law, seek justice without fear or favor no matter who is involved. Figure this mess out.", ">\n\nFully agree - and I'd actually like the investigation to be concluded swiftly since the ones being investigated will likely be 100% cooperative. It's not like DoJ will have to be dealing with full on liars and criminals which takes forever to find the answers.", ">\n\nI 100% agree that there ought to be a reasonable investigation into this but I do have to wonder if any of this matters at all given that Biden is currently the president and therefore has not only the right to have classified information but also the ability to declassify that information.\nNot trying to make excuses for the oversight (or lack thereof) of classified documents, but it seems to me as though this requires an investigation into how classified documents are handled during and after individuals have been given such status and after said status has lapsed.\nLet's be perfectly honest, if they had taken different actions on the first set of documents, we likely wouldn't even know about this because there was nobody searching for them.\nHad Biden and his lawyers actually been seriously corrupt, they could easily have disposed of them in a fireplace or down a toilet and no one would know the better.\nThe fact that they brought this directly to the attention of the proper authorities is at least proof that they do have respect for the rule of law and are willing to except the consequences, even if it is going to be used to make political hay while the sun shines.\nThat said, this likely has huge implications for executive privilege, especially to the extent that the former president argued he had. I personally do not have a problem with the minister of th Office of the President being able to be held accountable for their actions but only if it is equally applied across the board and not just something that we will have to deal with when presidents from the Democratic party are being scrutinized.", ">\n\n\nhas not only the right to have classified information but also the ability to declassify that information.\n\nHe does. But apparently these docs were from his Vice Presidency under Obama. So, it's a bit uncertain.\nAnd it really undermines at least one of the central charges you could have lodged against Trump, that everyone that is able to access classified documents has a substantive responsibility to make sure they are handled appropriately. The \"oh, well, we had to leave in a hurry and things just got mixed up\" arguments Trump could have made before would have had little merit - especially when you consider previous historic cases where even a single doc mishandled ended up with someone in jail.\nBut now Trump will be able to dilute that charge completely. He's still fucked on obstruction and everything else (hopefully).", ">\n\nClassified != Compartmentalized, Top Secret, etc.", ">\n\nI agree with you, but I was recently informed that sources say some of these classified documents were classified Top Secret.\nIt does appear as though ABC is confirming that sources are saying that some of these were top secret documents.\n\nSources also told ABC News that the original batch of about 10 documents found in November contains classified vice-presidential briefing papers about foreign countries, some of which were marked top secret.\n\nAnd CNN is not even using the journalistic term source, going so far as to assert that some of these documents were top secret.\n\nSome of the classified documents were “top secret,” the highest level. They were found in three or four boxes that also contained unclassified papers that fall under the Presidential Records Act, CNN has reported.\n\nIf we are going to maintain Integrity about the treatment of top secret classified documents, it is important to hold both sides accountable for their retention of documents.\nThank goodness that Biden's lawyers were up front with the FBI and NARA rather than lying about the retention of documents and obstructing an investigation.\nI really hope that Biden doesn't try to use the executive privilege argument to keep himself from investigation, but this is likely going to be a permanent stain on his reputation and definitely opens up the presidential field in the Democratic Party for 2024.", ">\n\nWhy would this be a permanent stain on Biden’s reputation?", ">\n\nBecause it will 100% be used along with whataboutism to suggest that Biden was going after Trump for the same thing that he was caught doing, regardless of the fact that Biden was not responsible for the investigation into Trump's documents has not been outspoken about the retention of documents, subsequent Lies by his lawyers, and obstruction.\nI'm not saying that it is going to be fair, or even rational but it is going to cause a stain and that will be used to pillory him.", ">\n\nSo in essence, this is only going to be a stain in the minds of people who are rather brainless to begin with….gotcha", ">\n\nIts a stain because it's political ammunition for the other side, not because you or I see it for the opportunitistically timed political assault that it seems to be. In modern politics, being on the defensive is the same as losing. Hillary Clinton's email fiasco likely contributed to the 2016 election results even though she wasn't indicted for a crime.\nThe people on the other side of the political spectrum who would consider this whole fiasco a stain on Biden AREN'T brainless, they're heavily propogandized, and they DO vote. This whole thing will be used to justify any or all of Trump's conduct that should be immediately disqualifying. Expect this to be split-screened with all of Trump's legal woes.\nHopefully Trump won't make it to the 2024 Election season as a viable candidate. If Trump does make it, Trump will use this against Biden. If Trump loses out to someone like DeSantis, there will be a concerted effort to crucify Biden with it.", ">\n\nMy favorite part of this:\nNo raging tweets from the president making up executive powers. Accusing people of planting evidence and arguing about a deep state conspiracy against him.", ">\n\nI’d be hilarious if he copy pasted one of trumps tweets and ended it with JK I’m not a raving lunatic in a middle of a tantrum.", ">\n\nThat would be some great dark Brandon shit.", ">\n\nI am all for a special counsel being appointed. But a Trump appointee feels like an attempt by Garland to bend over backwards to show just how apolitical he is. If he wanted to reach across the aisle, he couldn’t find a Bush appointee rather than someone appointed by a man who literally tried to upend the Republic and is known for appointing partisan hacks?", ">\n\nThis is how Garland has been acting since appointed. It’s like he’s so terrified of being perceived as biased against repubs that he instead acts biased against dems. He has truly been a failure at AG.. even more of a letdown than Mueller", ">\n\nWell, Garland is a conservative….. people think that he must be left wing because Obama nominated him for SCOTUS. NOPE! - he’s right wing and Obama was throwing the GOP a bone. The GOP just hated Obama so fucking much they slapped down a nominee that aligned with them.", ">\n\nTrue, Biden should have appointed someone else", ">\n\nOnly took a year and a half to appoint one for Trump. Also what about that DOJ policy about not investigating and prosecuting a sitting president which protected the former guy for, what, six years now?", ">\n\nGarland is not our friend.", ">\n\nWho’s friend, exactly? What does friendship have to do with accountability to rules and laws?\nAre you suggesting the DOJ should be aligned and friendly with one particular party or another and so they don’t have to follow rules and laws we expect others to comply with?", ">\n\nGarland is not a friend to justice.\nWhy has Trump not been indicted yet? What's the confusion?", ">\n\n\nWhy has Trump not been indicted yet?\n\nwhy would you expect him to have been? the investigation isn't over yet", ">\n\nit explains why they weren't indicted in the article", ">\n\nSome anonymous lawyer being quoted by CNN is not a definitive explanation at all. It's hearsay and well-meaning bullshit. But when the DOJ was asked? \"A spokesperson for the Department of Justice declined to comment.\" But if you do believe that anonymous source, do you really think they have executive privilege, as your source says? How TF do \"advisors\" get privilege?", ">\n\nthey worked in the White House", ">\n\nBad enough that everyone bought that crap, \"The president is immune to criminal prosecution and subpoenas.\" But now we're going to extend it to anyone who worked in the White House?! Holy cow you can't possibly believe that's a good idea.", ">\n\nAs. We. Would. Expect. 🤷‍♂️ \nCan't wait until Biden whines, makes excuses, tries to get a special master, claims that they where declassifi...... Oh wait. Dems don't do any of that.", ">\n\nIt doesn’t even matter cause republicans don’t care about mishandling classified document- oh wait…now they do.", ">\n\nAs a Democrat I am pretty pissed off at Biden for this, but I would be willing to bet he didn't know the documents were there. \nThat said, I am a strong believer in people being punished for breaking the law, even if they are on my \"team.\"\nIf he broke the law, punish him. \nJust make sure that that miserable, racist orange thing that yells all the time gets his as well.\nThis is the only way to have nice things.", ">\n\nBiden isn't asking for a special grand master or looking for a favorable court... weird.", ">\n\nLove how it took 2 years to do this for trump, and he ain't even president, 2 days for Biden and he is president. \nTo be clear, I'm not saying there shouldn't be an investigation, I'm saying Garland is showing his true colors pretty strongly with the disparity.\nEdit: I'm muting this thread, not trying to get banned for cussing some fool out again. Have a good night y'all.", ">\n\nThe difference will always be that most democrats are just fine with an investigation. Because they care about good governance instead of personality cults.", ">\n\nYeah, it's like Goofus and Gallant. Except Goofus wins every other election and beats your head in with a bat.", ">\n\nWeird how Garland can move with lightning speed when it’s a cover-your-ass political move. Lightning speed.", ">\n\nFucking ridiculous the kid-gloves treatment that Trump gets.", ">\n\nI feel like Trump is about to get his shit kicked in here by Jack Smith in about a month or so when the indictments start coming", ">\n\nI feel like someone has said this every month for the last 6 years. The point is, Trump is untouchable. His angry mob would never succeed in overthrowing the government, but they would likely affect quarterly profits.", ">\n\nThis right here. Gotta keep the wolves fed or they might bite you. \nDomestic Terrorism discourages commerce. They’re fucking cowards.", ">\n\nHow's that Trump indictment coming?", ">\n\nThis is all I'm concerned about. Biden's situation I'm sure will work itself out, but Trump has most certainly committed crimes well beyond and before simply having classified documents. I'm not even saying Biden hasn't broken the law, and he should be dealt with accordingly, but Trump has been a national security hazard and criminal since long before classified documents were found and obstruction was clearly committed to shield them, and this Biden situation should, in no way, get in the way of that case, which seems long overdue.", ">\n\nWeird. I thought the DOJ didn’t want to investigate presidents.", ">\n\nWeird, I recall the DOJ investigating Trump while he was president. And Clinton.", ">\n\nI'm not confused about it. There's no policy against investigating presidents, which is why the numerous investigations into recent sitting presidents happened and were not against any policy. There is a policy against indicting them, though that's not legally binding in any way, just a stated approach that the Justice dept. has outlined in the past.", ">\n\nThe difference between Republicans and Dems is on display again. \nNo cults, no obstructing. Let the legal system do its thing.", ">\n\nSo... he can move fast??", ">\n\nThis proves that Garland is exquisitely sensitive to (Republican) public opinion, which proves to me that he will never indict Trump.", ">\n\nHe has stated many times that no person is above the law. This proves that he's practices what he preaches.", ">\n\nDoes it though? He holds D’s to the rule of law, but drags his feet with R’s.. all to try to seem impartial. He is not holding everyone to the same standard.", ">\n\nthis is a good move despite what wackos in this sub will say. the alternative would be jim jordan and the house intelligence committee running crazy conspiracy theories over this investigation. \nwith this special counsel it will at least be an actual legitimate investigation that will in all likelihood tamper the political effects for biden, as well as create a more legitimate nonpartisan line between this and the trump situation. it won't matter for republicans anyway, but the appearance of impropriety is good!\nobviously there's some hiccup in whatever processes for classified documents there are if they can be mixed in with other documents, put in places they aren't supposed to be, forgotten about, etc. and perhaps that can come to light as a result of both of these investigations and those processes can be revised to address these issues, whether intentionally mishandled or mishandled due to ignorance/an accident.", ">\n\n\nthe alternative would be jim jordan and the house intelligence committee running crazy conspiracy theories over this investigation. \n\ni don't think is an \"either or\" kind of situation. you'll still get jim's hot take of the day once they set up the committee.", ">\n\nsure but as far as document requests and the like it could make it more complicated for the house to go as apeshit as they would otherwise", ">\n\nNo it won't. Because they are not grounded in reality. Just watch.", ">\n\ni mean the law still exists lol", ">\n\nDoes it, though?", ">\n\nyes\ndo you think jim jordan can just walk over to DOJ and grab a bunch of documents and tell the DOJ to fuck off?", ">\n\nNo. But he can tell the House to fuck off when they subpoena him. And that subpoena is referred to the DOJ for enforcement, Merrick Garland can sit on it for weeks and then eventually decline to prosecute. Just like it happened with Meadows.", ">\n\nSure, sounds reasonable. Seems pretty likely somebody committed a crime. \nRemind me again why Garland took 20 extra months to take action when a Republican had documents like this?", ">\n\nMerrick Garland took two years to appoint a special counsel to Trump but he took 1 week to appoint a special counsel to Biden. Is he trying to please the Republican house or someone powerful is really trying hard that Biden don't run again. What an idiotic decision. He is giving fuel to republicans. Any normal person would understand that Biden administration is co-operating with the appropriate authority to resolve this matter. I am so disappointed at Merrick Garland.", ">\n\nSo the day after trump announced he was running he appointed a special counsel. The day after Biden (presumptive candidate) is being investigated, appoint a special counsel.... seems consistent.", ">\n\nI understand the frustration, however, what's the alternative choice? \nDemocrats should let immoral and unethical actions of their members? \nDoesn't it sound ridiculous to suggest being lawful and ethical is losing?\nWhat the democrats need to do is clean up their dependence on big donor moneys by making significant changes to the laws surrounding political campaigns. \nWhen Republican's don't vote for campaign reform, they should be examined carefully by journalists, then shamed for any corruption, and arrested for any crimes.", ">\n\nI like this comment; there is a core of truth and clearheaded observation within that would likely solve most things political, if we can just convince the first national politician to unlatch from the corporate money tit. Someone has to be the wind-dummy, the maverick, and it would certainly be someone with enough independent wealth to tell the corporations and lobbyists to kick rocks. Hell, if even the congressional leadership adopted this tactic, media pressure would steer the others. \nSounds very cool. Who’s first?", ">\n\nI don't know why everyone is making such a big deal about this. Obama declassified all of these documents on his last day in office. He didn't tell anyone, but since he thought it, they are declassified. You can't prove me wrong.", ">\n\nA complete outrage. It took Garland nearly TWO YEARS of begging Trump pretty please for his documents back AND a warrant before a Special Prosecutor could be assigned on Trump, but within two months, he’s out front and center appointing one on Biden? Fuck all Garland apologists.", ">\n\nBefore Trump announced his candidacy for 2024, Garland didn't need a special counsel. He could investigate him directly.", ">\n\n“Could”", ">\n\nwhy are you using quotes? he was and is currently being investigated lol", ">\n\nOh yeah two years and the Georgia election officials weren’t even subpoenaed until last north by Jack Smith. Tell me more of this mythical investigation you think Garland was doing.", ">\n\nso you think there was no investigation?", ">\n\nSure, as slow walked and as toothless as it could be", ">\n\nit's not finished lol", ">\n\nGArlANd NEedS MoRE TiME tO bUiLd A cASE", ">\n\nand what exactly are your qualifications for investigating and prosecuting someone in federal court for a potential violation of the espionage act/obstruction of justice?", ">\n\nTrump and Biden should both be investigated for illegally having classified documents, the more serious crimes are the lying and obstruction of justice. If you steal a cookie from the cookie jar that’s a “crime” but if you confess to you parents it’s not as bad as if you’re parents catch you and confront you and you lie and try to blame someone else or say they have no authority over cookies and tell them to f-off. Your parents won’t be happy about either situation but one is clearly exponentially worse.", ">\n\nI'm guessing that's the end for Biden re-election dreams. Thank God. Hopefully dems find someone willing to run in 24 that isn't kamala Harris." ]

[ "Do a complete investigation, gather the evidence, follow all procedures and the law, seek justice without fear or favor no matter who is involved. Figure this mess out.", ">\n\nFully agree - and I'd actually like the investigation to be concluded swiftly since the ones being investigated will likely be 100% cooperative. It's not like DoJ will have to be dealing with full on liars and criminals which takes forever to find the answers.", ">\n\nI 100% agree that there ought to be a reasonable investigation into this but I do have to wonder if any of this matters at all given that Biden is currently the president and therefore has not only the right to have classified information but also the ability to declassify that information.\nNot trying to make excuses for the oversight (or lack thereof) of classified documents, but it seems to me as though this requires an investigation into how classified documents are handled during and after individuals have been given such status and after said status has lapsed.\nLet's be perfectly honest, if they had taken different actions on the first set of documents, we likely wouldn't even know about this because there was nobody searching for them.\nHad Biden and his lawyers actually been seriously corrupt, they could easily have disposed of them in a fireplace or down a toilet and no one would know the better.\nThe fact that they brought this directly to the attention of the proper authorities is at least proof that they do have respect for the rule of law and are willing to except the consequences, even if it is going to be used to make political hay while the sun shines.\nThat said, this likely has huge implications for executive privilege, especially to the extent that the former president argued he had. I personally do not have a problem with the minister of th Office of the President being able to be held accountable for their actions but only if it is equally applied across the board and not just something that we will have to deal with when presidents from the Democratic party are being scrutinized.", ">\n\n\nhas not only the right to have classified information but also the ability to declassify that information.\n\nHe does. But apparently these docs were from his Vice Presidency under Obama. So, it's a bit uncertain.\nAnd it really undermines at least one of the central charges you could have lodged against Trump, that everyone that is able to access classified documents has a substantive responsibility to make sure they are handled appropriately. The \"oh, well, we had to leave in a hurry and things just got mixed up\" arguments Trump could have made before would have had little merit - especially when you consider previous historic cases where even a single doc mishandled ended up with someone in jail.\nBut now Trump will be able to dilute that charge completely. He's still fucked on obstruction and everything else (hopefully).", ">\n\nClassified != Compartmentalized, Top Secret, etc.", ">\n\nI agree with you, but I was recently informed that sources say some of these classified documents were classified Top Secret.\nIt does appear as though ABC is confirming that sources are saying that some of these were top secret documents.\n\nSources also told ABC News that the original batch of about 10 documents found in November contains classified vice-presidential briefing papers about foreign countries, some of which were marked top secret.\n\nAnd CNN is not even using the journalistic term source, going so far as to assert that some of these documents were top secret.\n\nSome of the classified documents were “top secret,” the highest level. They were found in three or four boxes that also contained unclassified papers that fall under the Presidential Records Act, CNN has reported.\n\nIf we are going to maintain Integrity about the treatment of top secret classified documents, it is important to hold both sides accountable for their retention of documents.\nThank goodness that Biden's lawyers were up front with the FBI and NARA rather than lying about the retention of documents and obstructing an investigation.\nI really hope that Biden doesn't try to use the executive privilege argument to keep himself from investigation, but this is likely going to be a permanent stain on his reputation and definitely opens up the presidential field in the Democratic Party for 2024.", ">\n\nWhy would this be a permanent stain on Biden’s reputation?", ">\n\nBecause it will 100% be used along with whataboutism to suggest that Biden was going after Trump for the same thing that he was caught doing, regardless of the fact that Biden was not responsible for the investigation into Trump's documents has not been outspoken about the retention of documents, subsequent Lies by his lawyers, and obstruction.\nI'm not saying that it is going to be fair, or even rational but it is going to cause a stain and that will be used to pillory him.", ">\n\nSo in essence, this is only going to be a stain in the minds of people who are rather brainless to begin with….gotcha", ">\n\nIts a stain because it's political ammunition for the other side, not because you or I see it for the opportunitistically timed political assault that it seems to be. In modern politics, being on the defensive is the same as losing. Hillary Clinton's email fiasco likely contributed to the 2016 election results even though she wasn't indicted for a crime.\nThe people on the other side of the political spectrum who would consider this whole fiasco a stain on Biden AREN'T brainless, they're heavily propogandized, and they DO vote. This whole thing will be used to justify any or all of Trump's conduct that should be immediately disqualifying. Expect this to be split-screened with all of Trump's legal woes.\nHopefully Trump won't make it to the 2024 Election season as a viable candidate. If Trump does make it, Trump will use this against Biden. If Trump loses out to someone like DeSantis, there will be a concerted effort to crucify Biden with it.", ">\n\nMy favorite part of this:\nNo raging tweets from the president making up executive powers. Accusing people of planting evidence and arguing about a deep state conspiracy against him.", ">\n\nI’d be hilarious if he copy pasted one of trumps tweets and ended it with JK I’m not a raving lunatic in a middle of a tantrum.", ">\n\nThat would be some great dark Brandon shit.", ">\n\nI am all for a special counsel being appointed. But a Trump appointee feels like an attempt by Garland to bend over backwards to show just how apolitical he is. If he wanted to reach across the aisle, he couldn’t find a Bush appointee rather than someone appointed by a man who literally tried to upend the Republic and is known for appointing partisan hacks?", ">\n\nThis is how Garland has been acting since appointed. It’s like he’s so terrified of being perceived as biased against repubs that he instead acts biased against dems. He has truly been a failure at AG.. even more of a letdown than Mueller", ">\n\nWell, Garland is a conservative….. people think that he must be left wing because Obama nominated him for SCOTUS. NOPE! - he’s right wing and Obama was throwing the GOP a bone. The GOP just hated Obama so fucking much they slapped down a nominee that aligned with them.", ">\n\nTrue, Biden should have appointed someone else", ">\n\nOnly took a year and a half to appoint one for Trump. Also what about that DOJ policy about not investigating and prosecuting a sitting president which protected the former guy for, what, six years now?", ">\n\nGarland is not our friend.", ">\n\nWho’s friend, exactly? What does friendship have to do with accountability to rules and laws?\nAre you suggesting the DOJ should be aligned and friendly with one particular party or another and so they don’t have to follow rules and laws we expect others to comply with?", ">\n\nGarland is not a friend to justice.\nWhy has Trump not been indicted yet? What's the confusion?", ">\n\n\nWhy has Trump not been indicted yet?\n\nwhy would you expect him to have been? the investigation isn't over yet", ">\n\nit explains why they weren't indicted in the article", ">\n\nSome anonymous lawyer being quoted by CNN is not a definitive explanation at all. It's hearsay and well-meaning bullshit. But when the DOJ was asked? \"A spokesperson for the Department of Justice declined to comment.\" But if you do believe that anonymous source, do you really think they have executive privilege, as your source says? How TF do \"advisors\" get privilege?", ">\n\nthey worked in the White House", ">\n\nBad enough that everyone bought that crap, \"The president is immune to criminal prosecution and subpoenas.\" But now we're going to extend it to anyone who worked in the White House?! Holy cow you can't possibly believe that's a good idea.", ">\n\nAs. We. Would. Expect. 🤷‍♂️ \nCan't wait until Biden whines, makes excuses, tries to get a special master, claims that they where declassifi...... Oh wait. Dems don't do any of that.", ">\n\nIt doesn’t even matter cause republicans don’t care about mishandling classified document- oh wait…now they do.", ">\n\nAs a Democrat I am pretty pissed off at Biden for this, but I would be willing to bet he didn't know the documents were there. \nThat said, I am a strong believer in people being punished for breaking the law, even if they are on my \"team.\"\nIf he broke the law, punish him. \nJust make sure that that miserable, racist orange thing that yells all the time gets his as well.\nThis is the only way to have nice things.", ">\n\nBiden isn't asking for a special grand master or looking for a favorable court... weird.", ">\n\nLove how it took 2 years to do this for trump, and he ain't even president, 2 days for Biden and he is president. \nTo be clear, I'm not saying there shouldn't be an investigation, I'm saying Garland is showing his true colors pretty strongly with the disparity.\nEdit: I'm muting this thread, not trying to get banned for cussing some fool out again. Have a good night y'all.", ">\n\nThe difference will always be that most democrats are just fine with an investigation. Because they care about good governance instead of personality cults.", ">\n\nYeah, it's like Goofus and Gallant. Except Goofus wins every other election and beats your head in with a bat.", ">\n\nWeird how Garland can move with lightning speed when it’s a cover-your-ass political move. Lightning speed.", ">\n\nFucking ridiculous the kid-gloves treatment that Trump gets.", ">\n\nI feel like Trump is about to get his shit kicked in here by Jack Smith in about a month or so when the indictments start coming", ">\n\nI feel like someone has said this every month for the last 6 years. The point is, Trump is untouchable. His angry mob would never succeed in overthrowing the government, but they would likely affect quarterly profits.", ">\n\nThis right here. Gotta keep the wolves fed or they might bite you. \nDomestic Terrorism discourages commerce. They’re fucking cowards.", ">\n\nHow's that Trump indictment coming?", ">\n\nThis is all I'm concerned about. Biden's situation I'm sure will work itself out, but Trump has most certainly committed crimes well beyond and before simply having classified documents. I'm not even saying Biden hasn't broken the law, and he should be dealt with accordingly, but Trump has been a national security hazard and criminal since long before classified documents were found and obstruction was clearly committed to shield them, and this Biden situation should, in no way, get in the way of that case, which seems long overdue.", ">\n\nWeird. I thought the DOJ didn’t want to investigate presidents.", ">\n\nWeird, I recall the DOJ investigating Trump while he was president. And Clinton.", ">\n\nI'm not confused about it. There's no policy against investigating presidents, which is why the numerous investigations into recent sitting presidents happened and were not against any policy. There is a policy against indicting them, though that's not legally binding in any way, just a stated approach that the Justice dept. has outlined in the past.", ">\n\nThe difference between Republicans and Dems is on display again. \nNo cults, no obstructing. Let the legal system do its thing.", ">\n\nSo... he can move fast??", ">\n\nThis proves that Garland is exquisitely sensitive to (Republican) public opinion, which proves to me that he will never indict Trump.", ">\n\nHe has stated many times that no person is above the law. This proves that he's practices what he preaches.", ">\n\nDoes it though? He holds D’s to the rule of law, but drags his feet with R’s.. all to try to seem impartial. He is not holding everyone to the same standard.", ">\n\nthis is a good move despite what wackos in this sub will say. the alternative would be jim jordan and the house intelligence committee running crazy conspiracy theories over this investigation. \nwith this special counsel it will at least be an actual legitimate investigation that will in all likelihood tamper the political effects for biden, as well as create a more legitimate nonpartisan line between this and the trump situation. it won't matter for republicans anyway, but the appearance of impropriety is good!\nobviously there's some hiccup in whatever processes for classified documents there are if they can be mixed in with other documents, put in places they aren't supposed to be, forgotten about, etc. and perhaps that can come to light as a result of both of these investigations and those processes can be revised to address these issues, whether intentionally mishandled or mishandled due to ignorance/an accident.", ">\n\n\nthe alternative would be jim jordan and the house intelligence committee running crazy conspiracy theories over this investigation. \n\ni don't think is an \"either or\" kind of situation. you'll still get jim's hot take of the day once they set up the committee.", ">\n\nsure but as far as document requests and the like it could make it more complicated for the house to go as apeshit as they would otherwise", ">\n\nNo it won't. Because they are not grounded in reality. Just watch.", ">\n\ni mean the law still exists lol", ">\n\nDoes it, though?", ">\n\nyes\ndo you think jim jordan can just walk over to DOJ and grab a bunch of documents and tell the DOJ to fuck off?", ">\n\nNo. But he can tell the House to fuck off when they subpoena him. And that subpoena is referred to the DOJ for enforcement, Merrick Garland can sit on it for weeks and then eventually decline to prosecute. Just like it happened with Meadows.", ">\n\nSure, sounds reasonable. Seems pretty likely somebody committed a crime. \nRemind me again why Garland took 20 extra months to take action when a Republican had documents like this?", ">\n\nMerrick Garland took two years to appoint a special counsel to Trump but he took 1 week to appoint a special counsel to Biden. Is he trying to please the Republican house or someone powerful is really trying hard that Biden don't run again. What an idiotic decision. He is giving fuel to republicans. Any normal person would understand that Biden administration is co-operating with the appropriate authority to resolve this matter. I am so disappointed at Merrick Garland.", ">\n\nSo the day after trump announced he was running he appointed a special counsel. The day after Biden (presumptive candidate) is being investigated, appoint a special counsel.... seems consistent.", ">\n\nI understand the frustration, however, what's the alternative choice? \nDemocrats should let immoral and unethical actions of their members? \nDoesn't it sound ridiculous to suggest being lawful and ethical is losing?\nWhat the democrats need to do is clean up their dependence on big donor moneys by making significant changes to the laws surrounding political campaigns. \nWhen Republican's don't vote for campaign reform, they should be examined carefully by journalists, then shamed for any corruption, and arrested for any crimes.", ">\n\nI like this comment; there is a core of truth and clearheaded observation within that would likely solve most things political, if we can just convince the first national politician to unlatch from the corporate money tit. Someone has to be the wind-dummy, the maverick, and it would certainly be someone with enough independent wealth to tell the corporations and lobbyists to kick rocks. Hell, if even the congressional leadership adopted this tactic, media pressure would steer the others. \nSounds very cool. Who’s first?", ">\n\nI don't know why everyone is making such a big deal about this. Obama declassified all of these documents on his last day in office. He didn't tell anyone, but since he thought it, they are declassified. You can't prove me wrong.", ">\n\nA complete outrage. It took Garland nearly TWO YEARS of begging Trump pretty please for his documents back AND a warrant before a Special Prosecutor could be assigned on Trump, but within two months, he’s out front and center appointing one on Biden? Fuck all Garland apologists.", ">\n\nBefore Trump announced his candidacy for 2024, Garland didn't need a special counsel. He could investigate him directly.", ">\n\n“Could”", ">\n\nwhy are you using quotes? he was and is currently being investigated lol", ">\n\nOh yeah two years and the Georgia election officials weren’t even subpoenaed until last north by Jack Smith. Tell me more of this mythical investigation you think Garland was doing.", ">\n\nso you think there was no investigation?", ">\n\nSure, as slow walked and as toothless as it could be", ">\n\nit's not finished lol", ">\n\nGArlANd NEedS MoRE TiME tO bUiLd A cASE", ">\n\nand what exactly are your qualifications for investigating and prosecuting someone in federal court for a potential violation of the espionage act/obstruction of justice?", ">\n\nTrump and Biden should both be investigated for illegally having classified documents, the more serious crimes are the lying and obstruction of justice. If you steal a cookie from the cookie jar that’s a “crime” but if you confess to you parents it’s not as bad as if you’re parents catch you and confront you and you lie and try to blame someone else or say they have no authority over cookies and tell them to f-off. Your parents won’t be happy about either situation but one is clearly exponentially worse.", ">\n\nI'm guessing that's the end for Biden re-election dreams. Thank God. Hopefully dems find someone willing to run in 24 that isn't kamala Harris.", ">\n\nI voted for Biden and I’m fine with this." ]

[ "Do a complete investigation, gather the evidence, follow all procedures and the law, seek justice without fear or favor no matter who is involved. Figure this mess out.", ">\n\nFully agree - and I'd actually like the investigation to be concluded swiftly since the ones being investigated will likely be 100% cooperative. It's not like DoJ will have to be dealing with full on liars and criminals which takes forever to find the answers.", ">\n\nI 100% agree that there ought to be a reasonable investigation into this but I do have to wonder if any of this matters at all given that Biden is currently the president and therefore has not only the right to have classified information but also the ability to declassify that information.\nNot trying to make excuses for the oversight (or lack thereof) of classified documents, but it seems to me as though this requires an investigation into how classified documents are handled during and after individuals have been given such status and after said status has lapsed.\nLet's be perfectly honest, if they had taken different actions on the first set of documents, we likely wouldn't even know about this because there was nobody searching for them.\nHad Biden and his lawyers actually been seriously corrupt, they could easily have disposed of them in a fireplace or down a toilet and no one would know the better.\nThe fact that they brought this directly to the attention of the proper authorities is at least proof that they do have respect for the rule of law and are willing to except the consequences, even if it is going to be used to make political hay while the sun shines.\nThat said, this likely has huge implications for executive privilege, especially to the extent that the former president argued he had. I personally do not have a problem with the minister of th Office of the President being able to be held accountable for their actions but only if it is equally applied across the board and not just something that we will have to deal with when presidents from the Democratic party are being scrutinized.", ">\n\n\nhas not only the right to have classified information but also the ability to declassify that information.\n\nHe does. But apparently these docs were from his Vice Presidency under Obama. So, it's a bit uncertain.\nAnd it really undermines at least one of the central charges you could have lodged against Trump, that everyone that is able to access classified documents has a substantive responsibility to make sure they are handled appropriately. The \"oh, well, we had to leave in a hurry and things just got mixed up\" arguments Trump could have made before would have had little merit - especially when you consider previous historic cases where even a single doc mishandled ended up with someone in jail.\nBut now Trump will be able to dilute that charge completely. He's still fucked on obstruction and everything else (hopefully).", ">\n\nClassified != Compartmentalized, Top Secret, etc.", ">\n\nI agree with you, but I was recently informed that sources say some of these classified documents were classified Top Secret.\nIt does appear as though ABC is confirming that sources are saying that some of these were top secret documents.\n\nSources also told ABC News that the original batch of about 10 documents found in November contains classified vice-presidential briefing papers about foreign countries, some of which were marked top secret.\n\nAnd CNN is not even using the journalistic term source, going so far as to assert that some of these documents were top secret.\n\nSome of the classified documents were “top secret,” the highest level. They were found in three or four boxes that also contained unclassified papers that fall under the Presidential Records Act, CNN has reported.\n\nIf we are going to maintain Integrity about the treatment of top secret classified documents, it is important to hold both sides accountable for their retention of documents.\nThank goodness that Biden's lawyers were up front with the FBI and NARA rather than lying about the retention of documents and obstructing an investigation.\nI really hope that Biden doesn't try to use the executive privilege argument to keep himself from investigation, but this is likely going to be a permanent stain on his reputation and definitely opens up the presidential field in the Democratic Party for 2024.", ">\n\nWhy would this be a permanent stain on Biden’s reputation?", ">\n\nBecause it will 100% be used along with whataboutism to suggest that Biden was going after Trump for the same thing that he was caught doing, regardless of the fact that Biden was not responsible for the investigation into Trump's documents has not been outspoken about the retention of documents, subsequent Lies by his lawyers, and obstruction.\nI'm not saying that it is going to be fair, or even rational but it is going to cause a stain and that will be used to pillory him.", ">\n\nSo in essence, this is only going to be a stain in the minds of people who are rather brainless to begin with….gotcha", ">\n\nIts a stain because it's political ammunition for the other side, not because you or I see it for the opportunitistically timed political assault that it seems to be. In modern politics, being on the defensive is the same as losing. Hillary Clinton's email fiasco likely contributed to the 2016 election results even though she wasn't indicted for a crime.\nThe people on the other side of the political spectrum who would consider this whole fiasco a stain on Biden AREN'T brainless, they're heavily propogandized, and they DO vote. This whole thing will be used to justify any or all of Trump's conduct that should be immediately disqualifying. Expect this to be split-screened with all of Trump's legal woes.\nHopefully Trump won't make it to the 2024 Election season as a viable candidate. If Trump does make it, Trump will use this against Biden. If Trump loses out to someone like DeSantis, there will be a concerted effort to crucify Biden with it.", ">\n\nMy favorite part of this:\nNo raging tweets from the president making up executive powers. Accusing people of planting evidence and arguing about a deep state conspiracy against him.", ">\n\nI’d be hilarious if he copy pasted one of trumps tweets and ended it with JK I’m not a raving lunatic in a middle of a tantrum.", ">\n\nThat would be some great dark Brandon shit.", ">\n\nI am all for a special counsel being appointed. But a Trump appointee feels like an attempt by Garland to bend over backwards to show just how apolitical he is. If he wanted to reach across the aisle, he couldn’t find a Bush appointee rather than someone appointed by a man who literally tried to upend the Republic and is known for appointing partisan hacks?", ">\n\nThis is how Garland has been acting since appointed. It’s like he’s so terrified of being perceived as biased against repubs that he instead acts biased against dems. He has truly been a failure at AG.. even more of a letdown than Mueller", ">\n\nWell, Garland is a conservative….. people think that he must be left wing because Obama nominated him for SCOTUS. NOPE! - he’s right wing and Obama was throwing the GOP a bone. The GOP just hated Obama so fucking much they slapped down a nominee that aligned with them.", ">\n\nTrue, Biden should have appointed someone else", ">\n\nOnly took a year and a half to appoint one for Trump. Also what about that DOJ policy about not investigating and prosecuting a sitting president which protected the former guy for, what, six years now?", ">\n\nGarland is not our friend.", ">\n\nWho’s friend, exactly? What does friendship have to do with accountability to rules and laws?\nAre you suggesting the DOJ should be aligned and friendly with one particular party or another and so they don’t have to follow rules and laws we expect others to comply with?", ">\n\nGarland is not a friend to justice.\nWhy has Trump not been indicted yet? What's the confusion?", ">\n\n\nWhy has Trump not been indicted yet?\n\nwhy would you expect him to have been? the investigation isn't over yet", ">\n\nit explains why they weren't indicted in the article", ">\n\nSome anonymous lawyer being quoted by CNN is not a definitive explanation at all. It's hearsay and well-meaning bullshit. But when the DOJ was asked? \"A spokesperson for the Department of Justice declined to comment.\" But if you do believe that anonymous source, do you really think they have executive privilege, as your source says? How TF do \"advisors\" get privilege?", ">\n\nthey worked in the White House", ">\n\nBad enough that everyone bought that crap, \"The president is immune to criminal prosecution and subpoenas.\" But now we're going to extend it to anyone who worked in the White House?! Holy cow you can't possibly believe that's a good idea.", ">\n\nAs. We. Would. Expect. 🤷‍♂️ \nCan't wait until Biden whines, makes excuses, tries to get a special master, claims that they where declassifi...... Oh wait. Dems don't do any of that.", ">\n\nIt doesn’t even matter cause republicans don’t care about mishandling classified document- oh wait…now they do.", ">\n\nAs a Democrat I am pretty pissed off at Biden for this, but I would be willing to bet he didn't know the documents were there. \nThat said, I am a strong believer in people being punished for breaking the law, even if they are on my \"team.\"\nIf he broke the law, punish him. \nJust make sure that that miserable, racist orange thing that yells all the time gets his as well.\nThis is the only way to have nice things.", ">\n\nBiden isn't asking for a special grand master or looking for a favorable court... weird.", ">\n\nLove how it took 2 years to do this for trump, and he ain't even president, 2 days for Biden and he is president. \nTo be clear, I'm not saying there shouldn't be an investigation, I'm saying Garland is showing his true colors pretty strongly with the disparity.\nEdit: I'm muting this thread, not trying to get banned for cussing some fool out again. Have a good night y'all.", ">\n\nThe difference will always be that most democrats are just fine with an investigation. Because they care about good governance instead of personality cults.", ">\n\nYeah, it's like Goofus and Gallant. Except Goofus wins every other election and beats your head in with a bat.", ">\n\nWeird how Garland can move with lightning speed when it’s a cover-your-ass political move. Lightning speed.", ">\n\nFucking ridiculous the kid-gloves treatment that Trump gets.", ">\n\nI feel like Trump is about to get his shit kicked in here by Jack Smith in about a month or so when the indictments start coming", ">\n\nI feel like someone has said this every month for the last 6 years. The point is, Trump is untouchable. His angry mob would never succeed in overthrowing the government, but they would likely affect quarterly profits.", ">\n\nThis right here. Gotta keep the wolves fed or they might bite you. \nDomestic Terrorism discourages commerce. They’re fucking cowards.", ">\n\nHow's that Trump indictment coming?", ">\n\nThis is all I'm concerned about. Biden's situation I'm sure will work itself out, but Trump has most certainly committed crimes well beyond and before simply having classified documents. I'm not even saying Biden hasn't broken the law, and he should be dealt with accordingly, but Trump has been a national security hazard and criminal since long before classified documents were found and obstruction was clearly committed to shield them, and this Biden situation should, in no way, get in the way of that case, which seems long overdue.", ">\n\nWeird. I thought the DOJ didn’t want to investigate presidents.", ">\n\nWeird, I recall the DOJ investigating Trump while he was president. And Clinton.", ">\n\nI'm not confused about it. There's no policy against investigating presidents, which is why the numerous investigations into recent sitting presidents happened and were not against any policy. There is a policy against indicting them, though that's not legally binding in any way, just a stated approach that the Justice dept. has outlined in the past.", ">\n\nThe difference between Republicans and Dems is on display again. \nNo cults, no obstructing. Let the legal system do its thing.", ">\n\nSo... he can move fast??", ">\n\nThis proves that Garland is exquisitely sensitive to (Republican) public opinion, which proves to me that he will never indict Trump.", ">\n\nHe has stated many times that no person is above the law. This proves that he's practices what he preaches.", ">\n\nDoes it though? He holds D’s to the rule of law, but drags his feet with R’s.. all to try to seem impartial. He is not holding everyone to the same standard.", ">\n\nthis is a good move despite what wackos in this sub will say. the alternative would be jim jordan and the house intelligence committee running crazy conspiracy theories over this investigation. \nwith this special counsel it will at least be an actual legitimate investigation that will in all likelihood tamper the political effects for biden, as well as create a more legitimate nonpartisan line between this and the trump situation. it won't matter for republicans anyway, but the appearance of impropriety is good!\nobviously there's some hiccup in whatever processes for classified documents there are if they can be mixed in with other documents, put in places they aren't supposed to be, forgotten about, etc. and perhaps that can come to light as a result of both of these investigations and those processes can be revised to address these issues, whether intentionally mishandled or mishandled due to ignorance/an accident.", ">\n\n\nthe alternative would be jim jordan and the house intelligence committee running crazy conspiracy theories over this investigation. \n\ni don't think is an \"either or\" kind of situation. you'll still get jim's hot take of the day once they set up the committee.", ">\n\nsure but as far as document requests and the like it could make it more complicated for the house to go as apeshit as they would otherwise", ">\n\nNo it won't. Because they are not grounded in reality. Just watch.", ">\n\ni mean the law still exists lol", ">\n\nDoes it, though?", ">\n\nyes\ndo you think jim jordan can just walk over to DOJ and grab a bunch of documents and tell the DOJ to fuck off?", ">\n\nNo. But he can tell the House to fuck off when they subpoena him. And that subpoena is referred to the DOJ for enforcement, Merrick Garland can sit on it for weeks and then eventually decline to prosecute. Just like it happened with Meadows.", ">\n\nSure, sounds reasonable. Seems pretty likely somebody committed a crime. \nRemind me again why Garland took 20 extra months to take action when a Republican had documents like this?", ">\n\nMerrick Garland took two years to appoint a special counsel to Trump but he took 1 week to appoint a special counsel to Biden. Is he trying to please the Republican house or someone powerful is really trying hard that Biden don't run again. What an idiotic decision. He is giving fuel to republicans. Any normal person would understand that Biden administration is co-operating with the appropriate authority to resolve this matter. I am so disappointed at Merrick Garland.", ">\n\nSo the day after trump announced he was running he appointed a special counsel. The day after Biden (presumptive candidate) is being investigated, appoint a special counsel.... seems consistent.", ">\n\nI understand the frustration, however, what's the alternative choice? \nDemocrats should let immoral and unethical actions of their members? \nDoesn't it sound ridiculous to suggest being lawful and ethical is losing?\nWhat the democrats need to do is clean up their dependence on big donor moneys by making significant changes to the laws surrounding political campaigns. \nWhen Republican's don't vote for campaign reform, they should be examined carefully by journalists, then shamed for any corruption, and arrested for any crimes.", ">\n\nI like this comment; there is a core of truth and clearheaded observation within that would likely solve most things political, if we can just convince the first national politician to unlatch from the corporate money tit. Someone has to be the wind-dummy, the maverick, and it would certainly be someone with enough independent wealth to tell the corporations and lobbyists to kick rocks. Hell, if even the congressional leadership adopted this tactic, media pressure would steer the others. \nSounds very cool. Who’s first?", ">\n\nI don't know why everyone is making such a big deal about this. Obama declassified all of these documents on his last day in office. He didn't tell anyone, but since he thought it, they are declassified. You can't prove me wrong.", ">\n\nA complete outrage. It took Garland nearly TWO YEARS of begging Trump pretty please for his documents back AND a warrant before a Special Prosecutor could be assigned on Trump, but within two months, he’s out front and center appointing one on Biden? Fuck all Garland apologists.", ">\n\nBefore Trump announced his candidacy for 2024, Garland didn't need a special counsel. He could investigate him directly.", ">\n\n“Could”", ">\n\nwhy are you using quotes? he was and is currently being investigated lol", ">\n\nOh yeah two years and the Georgia election officials weren’t even subpoenaed until last north by Jack Smith. Tell me more of this mythical investigation you think Garland was doing.", ">\n\nso you think there was no investigation?", ">\n\nSure, as slow walked and as toothless as it could be", ">\n\nit's not finished lol", ">\n\nGArlANd NEedS MoRE TiME tO bUiLd A cASE", ">\n\nand what exactly are your qualifications for investigating and prosecuting someone in federal court for a potential violation of the espionage act/obstruction of justice?", ">\n\nTrump and Biden should both be investigated for illegally having classified documents, the more serious crimes are the lying and obstruction of justice. If you steal a cookie from the cookie jar that’s a “crime” but if you confess to you parents it’s not as bad as if you’re parents catch you and confront you and you lie and try to blame someone else or say they have no authority over cookies and tell them to f-off. Your parents won’t be happy about either situation but one is clearly exponentially worse.", ">\n\nI'm guessing that's the end for Biden re-election dreams. Thank God. Hopefully dems find someone willing to run in 24 that isn't kamala Harris.", ">\n\nI voted for Biden and I’m fine with this.", ">\n\nSame." ]

[ "Do a complete investigation, gather the evidence, follow all procedures and the law, seek justice without fear or favor no matter who is involved. Figure this mess out.", ">\n\nFully agree - and I'd actually like the investigation to be concluded swiftly since the ones being investigated will likely be 100% cooperative. It's not like DoJ will have to be dealing with full on liars and criminals which takes forever to find the answers.", ">\n\nI 100% agree that there ought to be a reasonable investigation into this but I do have to wonder if any of this matters at all given that Biden is currently the president and therefore has not only the right to have classified information but also the ability to declassify that information.\nNot trying to make excuses for the oversight (or lack thereof) of classified documents, but it seems to me as though this requires an investigation into how classified documents are handled during and after individuals have been given such status and after said status has lapsed.\nLet's be perfectly honest, if they had taken different actions on the first set of documents, we likely wouldn't even know about this because there was nobody searching for them.\nHad Biden and his lawyers actually been seriously corrupt, they could easily have disposed of them in a fireplace or down a toilet and no one would know the better.\nThe fact that they brought this directly to the attention of the proper authorities is at least proof that they do have respect for the rule of law and are willing to except the consequences, even if it is going to be used to make political hay while the sun shines.\nThat said, this likely has huge implications for executive privilege, especially to the extent that the former president argued he had. I personally do not have a problem with the minister of th Office of the President being able to be held accountable for their actions but only if it is equally applied across the board and not just something that we will have to deal with when presidents from the Democratic party are being scrutinized.", ">\n\n\nhas not only the right to have classified information but also the ability to declassify that information.\n\nHe does. But apparently these docs were from his Vice Presidency under Obama. So, it's a bit uncertain.\nAnd it really undermines at least one of the central charges you could have lodged against Trump, that everyone that is able to access classified documents has a substantive responsibility to make sure they are handled appropriately. The \"oh, well, we had to leave in a hurry and things just got mixed up\" arguments Trump could have made before would have had little merit - especially when you consider previous historic cases where even a single doc mishandled ended up with someone in jail.\nBut now Trump will be able to dilute that charge completely. He's still fucked on obstruction and everything else (hopefully).", ">\n\nClassified != Compartmentalized, Top Secret, etc.", ">\n\nI agree with you, but I was recently informed that sources say some of these classified documents were classified Top Secret.\nIt does appear as though ABC is confirming that sources are saying that some of these were top secret documents.\n\nSources also told ABC News that the original batch of about 10 documents found in November contains classified vice-presidential briefing papers about foreign countries, some of which were marked top secret.\n\nAnd CNN is not even using the journalistic term source, going so far as to assert that some of these documents were top secret.\n\nSome of the classified documents were “top secret,” the highest level. They were found in three or four boxes that also contained unclassified papers that fall under the Presidential Records Act, CNN has reported.\n\nIf we are going to maintain Integrity about the treatment of top secret classified documents, it is important to hold both sides accountable for their retention of documents.\nThank goodness that Biden's lawyers were up front with the FBI and NARA rather than lying about the retention of documents and obstructing an investigation.\nI really hope that Biden doesn't try to use the executive privilege argument to keep himself from investigation, but this is likely going to be a permanent stain on his reputation and definitely opens up the presidential field in the Democratic Party for 2024.", ">\n\nWhy would this be a permanent stain on Biden’s reputation?", ">\n\nBecause it will 100% be used along with whataboutism to suggest that Biden was going after Trump for the same thing that he was caught doing, regardless of the fact that Biden was not responsible for the investigation into Trump's documents has not been outspoken about the retention of documents, subsequent Lies by his lawyers, and obstruction.\nI'm not saying that it is going to be fair, or even rational but it is going to cause a stain and that will be used to pillory him.", ">\n\nSo in essence, this is only going to be a stain in the minds of people who are rather brainless to begin with….gotcha", ">\n\nIts a stain because it's political ammunition for the other side, not because you or I see it for the opportunitistically timed political assault that it seems to be. In modern politics, being on the defensive is the same as losing. Hillary Clinton's email fiasco likely contributed to the 2016 election results even though she wasn't indicted for a crime.\nThe people on the other side of the political spectrum who would consider this whole fiasco a stain on Biden AREN'T brainless, they're heavily propogandized, and they DO vote. This whole thing will be used to justify any or all of Trump's conduct that should be immediately disqualifying. Expect this to be split-screened with all of Trump's legal woes.\nHopefully Trump won't make it to the 2024 Election season as a viable candidate. If Trump does make it, Trump will use this against Biden. If Trump loses out to someone like DeSantis, there will be a concerted effort to crucify Biden with it.", ">\n\nMy favorite part of this:\nNo raging tweets from the president making up executive powers. Accusing people of planting evidence and arguing about a deep state conspiracy against him.", ">\n\nI’d be hilarious if he copy pasted one of trumps tweets and ended it with JK I’m not a raving lunatic in a middle of a tantrum.", ">\n\nThat would be some great dark Brandon shit.", ">\n\nI am all for a special counsel being appointed. But a Trump appointee feels like an attempt by Garland to bend over backwards to show just how apolitical he is. If he wanted to reach across the aisle, he couldn’t find a Bush appointee rather than someone appointed by a man who literally tried to upend the Republic and is known for appointing partisan hacks?", ">\n\nThis is how Garland has been acting since appointed. It’s like he’s so terrified of being perceived as biased against repubs that he instead acts biased against dems. He has truly been a failure at AG.. even more of a letdown than Mueller", ">\n\nWell, Garland is a conservative….. people think that he must be left wing because Obama nominated him for SCOTUS. NOPE! - he’s right wing and Obama was throwing the GOP a bone. The GOP just hated Obama so fucking much they slapped down a nominee that aligned with them.", ">\n\nTrue, Biden should have appointed someone else", ">\n\nOnly took a year and a half to appoint one for Trump. Also what about that DOJ policy about not investigating and prosecuting a sitting president which protected the former guy for, what, six years now?", ">\n\nGarland is not our friend.", ">\n\nWho’s friend, exactly? What does friendship have to do with accountability to rules and laws?\nAre you suggesting the DOJ should be aligned and friendly with one particular party or another and so they don’t have to follow rules and laws we expect others to comply with?", ">\n\nGarland is not a friend to justice.\nWhy has Trump not been indicted yet? What's the confusion?", ">\n\n\nWhy has Trump not been indicted yet?\n\nwhy would you expect him to have been? the investigation isn't over yet", ">\n\nit explains why they weren't indicted in the article", ">\n\nSome anonymous lawyer being quoted by CNN is not a definitive explanation at all. It's hearsay and well-meaning bullshit. But when the DOJ was asked? \"A spokesperson for the Department of Justice declined to comment.\" But if you do believe that anonymous source, do you really think they have executive privilege, as your source says? How TF do \"advisors\" get privilege?", ">\n\nthey worked in the White House", ">\n\nBad enough that everyone bought that crap, \"The president is immune to criminal prosecution and subpoenas.\" But now we're going to extend it to anyone who worked in the White House?! Holy cow you can't possibly believe that's a good idea.", ">\n\nAs. We. Would. Expect. 🤷‍♂️ \nCan't wait until Biden whines, makes excuses, tries to get a special master, claims that they where declassifi...... Oh wait. Dems don't do any of that.", ">\n\nIt doesn’t even matter cause republicans don’t care about mishandling classified document- oh wait…now they do.", ">\n\nAs a Democrat I am pretty pissed off at Biden for this, but I would be willing to bet he didn't know the documents were there. \nThat said, I am a strong believer in people being punished for breaking the law, even if they are on my \"team.\"\nIf he broke the law, punish him. \nJust make sure that that miserable, racist orange thing that yells all the time gets his as well.\nThis is the only way to have nice things.", ">\n\nBiden isn't asking for a special grand master or looking for a favorable court... weird.", ">\n\nLove how it took 2 years to do this for trump, and he ain't even president, 2 days for Biden and he is president. \nTo be clear, I'm not saying there shouldn't be an investigation, I'm saying Garland is showing his true colors pretty strongly with the disparity.\nEdit: I'm muting this thread, not trying to get banned for cussing some fool out again. Have a good night y'all.", ">\n\nThe difference will always be that most democrats are just fine with an investigation. Because they care about good governance instead of personality cults.", ">\n\nYeah, it's like Goofus and Gallant. Except Goofus wins every other election and beats your head in with a bat.", ">\n\nWeird how Garland can move with lightning speed when it’s a cover-your-ass political move. Lightning speed.", ">\n\nFucking ridiculous the kid-gloves treatment that Trump gets.", ">\n\nI feel like Trump is about to get his shit kicked in here by Jack Smith in about a month or so when the indictments start coming", ">\n\nI feel like someone has said this every month for the last 6 years. The point is, Trump is untouchable. His angry mob would never succeed in overthrowing the government, but they would likely affect quarterly profits.", ">\n\nThis right here. Gotta keep the wolves fed or they might bite you. \nDomestic Terrorism discourages commerce. They’re fucking cowards.", ">\n\nHow's that Trump indictment coming?", ">\n\nThis is all I'm concerned about. Biden's situation I'm sure will work itself out, but Trump has most certainly committed crimes well beyond and before simply having classified documents. I'm not even saying Biden hasn't broken the law, and he should be dealt with accordingly, but Trump has been a national security hazard and criminal since long before classified documents were found and obstruction was clearly committed to shield them, and this Biden situation should, in no way, get in the way of that case, which seems long overdue.", ">\n\nWeird. I thought the DOJ didn’t want to investigate presidents.", ">\n\nWeird, I recall the DOJ investigating Trump while he was president. And Clinton.", ">\n\nI'm not confused about it. There's no policy against investigating presidents, which is why the numerous investigations into recent sitting presidents happened and were not against any policy. There is a policy against indicting them, though that's not legally binding in any way, just a stated approach that the Justice dept. has outlined in the past.", ">\n\nThe difference between Republicans and Dems is on display again. \nNo cults, no obstructing. Let the legal system do its thing.", ">\n\nSo... he can move fast??", ">\n\nThis proves that Garland is exquisitely sensitive to (Republican) public opinion, which proves to me that he will never indict Trump.", ">\n\nHe has stated many times that no person is above the law. This proves that he's practices what he preaches.", ">\n\nDoes it though? He holds D’s to the rule of law, but drags his feet with R’s.. all to try to seem impartial. He is not holding everyone to the same standard.", ">\n\nthis is a good move despite what wackos in this sub will say. the alternative would be jim jordan and the house intelligence committee running crazy conspiracy theories over this investigation. \nwith this special counsel it will at least be an actual legitimate investigation that will in all likelihood tamper the political effects for biden, as well as create a more legitimate nonpartisan line between this and the trump situation. it won't matter for republicans anyway, but the appearance of impropriety is good!\nobviously there's some hiccup in whatever processes for classified documents there are if they can be mixed in with other documents, put in places they aren't supposed to be, forgotten about, etc. and perhaps that can come to light as a result of both of these investigations and those processes can be revised to address these issues, whether intentionally mishandled or mishandled due to ignorance/an accident.", ">\n\n\nthe alternative would be jim jordan and the house intelligence committee running crazy conspiracy theories over this investigation. \n\ni don't think is an \"either or\" kind of situation. you'll still get jim's hot take of the day once they set up the committee.", ">\n\nsure but as far as document requests and the like it could make it more complicated for the house to go as apeshit as they would otherwise", ">\n\nNo it won't. Because they are not grounded in reality. Just watch.", ">\n\ni mean the law still exists lol", ">\n\nDoes it, though?", ">\n\nyes\ndo you think jim jordan can just walk over to DOJ and grab a bunch of documents and tell the DOJ to fuck off?", ">\n\nNo. But he can tell the House to fuck off when they subpoena him. And that subpoena is referred to the DOJ for enforcement, Merrick Garland can sit on it for weeks and then eventually decline to prosecute. Just like it happened with Meadows.", ">\n\nSure, sounds reasonable. Seems pretty likely somebody committed a crime. \nRemind me again why Garland took 20 extra months to take action when a Republican had documents like this?", ">\n\nMerrick Garland took two years to appoint a special counsel to Trump but he took 1 week to appoint a special counsel to Biden. Is he trying to please the Republican house or someone powerful is really trying hard that Biden don't run again. What an idiotic decision. He is giving fuel to republicans. Any normal person would understand that Biden administration is co-operating with the appropriate authority to resolve this matter. I am so disappointed at Merrick Garland.", ">\n\nSo the day after trump announced he was running he appointed a special counsel. The day after Biden (presumptive candidate) is being investigated, appoint a special counsel.... seems consistent.", ">\n\nI understand the frustration, however, what's the alternative choice? \nDemocrats should let immoral and unethical actions of their members? \nDoesn't it sound ridiculous to suggest being lawful and ethical is losing?\nWhat the democrats need to do is clean up their dependence on big donor moneys by making significant changes to the laws surrounding political campaigns. \nWhen Republican's don't vote for campaign reform, they should be examined carefully by journalists, then shamed for any corruption, and arrested for any crimes.", ">\n\nI like this comment; there is a core of truth and clearheaded observation within that would likely solve most things political, if we can just convince the first national politician to unlatch from the corporate money tit. Someone has to be the wind-dummy, the maverick, and it would certainly be someone with enough independent wealth to tell the corporations and lobbyists to kick rocks. Hell, if even the congressional leadership adopted this tactic, media pressure would steer the others. \nSounds very cool. Who’s first?", ">\n\nI don't know why everyone is making such a big deal about this. Obama declassified all of these documents on his last day in office. He didn't tell anyone, but since he thought it, they are declassified. You can't prove me wrong.", ">\n\nA complete outrage. It took Garland nearly TWO YEARS of begging Trump pretty please for his documents back AND a warrant before a Special Prosecutor could be assigned on Trump, but within two months, he’s out front and center appointing one on Biden? Fuck all Garland apologists.", ">\n\nBefore Trump announced his candidacy for 2024, Garland didn't need a special counsel. He could investigate him directly.", ">\n\n“Could”", ">\n\nwhy are you using quotes? he was and is currently being investigated lol", ">\n\nOh yeah two years and the Georgia election officials weren’t even subpoenaed until last north by Jack Smith. Tell me more of this mythical investigation you think Garland was doing.", ">\n\nso you think there was no investigation?", ">\n\nSure, as slow walked and as toothless as it could be", ">\n\nit's not finished lol", ">\n\nGArlANd NEedS MoRE TiME tO bUiLd A cASE", ">\n\nand what exactly are your qualifications for investigating and prosecuting someone in federal court for a potential violation of the espionage act/obstruction of justice?", ">\n\nTrump and Biden should both be investigated for illegally having classified documents, the more serious crimes are the lying and obstruction of justice. If you steal a cookie from the cookie jar that’s a “crime” but if you confess to you parents it’s not as bad as if you’re parents catch you and confront you and you lie and try to blame someone else or say they have no authority over cookies and tell them to f-off. Your parents won’t be happy about either situation but one is clearly exponentially worse.", ">\n\nI'm guessing that's the end for Biden re-election dreams. Thank God. Hopefully dems find someone willing to run in 24 that isn't kamala Harris.", ">\n\nI voted for Biden and I’m fine with this.", ">\n\nSame.", ">\n\nWonder if anyone will remember either of these cases in 2024" ]

[ "Do a complete investigation, gather the evidence, follow all procedures and the law, seek justice without fear or favor no matter who is involved. Figure this mess out.", ">\n\nFully agree - and I'd actually like the investigation to be concluded swiftly since the ones being investigated will likely be 100% cooperative. It's not like DoJ will have to be dealing with full on liars and criminals which takes forever to find the answers.", ">\n\nI 100% agree that there ought to be a reasonable investigation into this but I do have to wonder if any of this matters at all given that Biden is currently the president and therefore has not only the right to have classified information but also the ability to declassify that information.\nNot trying to make excuses for the oversight (or lack thereof) of classified documents, but it seems to me as though this requires an investigation into how classified documents are handled during and after individuals have been given such status and after said status has lapsed.\nLet's be perfectly honest, if they had taken different actions on the first set of documents, we likely wouldn't even know about this because there was nobody searching for them.\nHad Biden and his lawyers actually been seriously corrupt, they could easily have disposed of them in a fireplace or down a toilet and no one would know the better.\nThe fact that they brought this directly to the attention of the proper authorities is at least proof that they do have respect for the rule of law and are willing to except the consequences, even if it is going to be used to make political hay while the sun shines.\nThat said, this likely has huge implications for executive privilege, especially to the extent that the former president argued he had. I personally do not have a problem with the minister of th Office of the President being able to be held accountable for their actions but only if it is equally applied across the board and not just something that we will have to deal with when presidents from the Democratic party are being scrutinized.", ">\n\n\nhas not only the right to have classified information but also the ability to declassify that information.\n\nHe does. But apparently these docs were from his Vice Presidency under Obama. So, it's a bit uncertain.\nAnd it really undermines at least one of the central charges you could have lodged against Trump, that everyone that is able to access classified documents has a substantive responsibility to make sure they are handled appropriately. The \"oh, well, we had to leave in a hurry and things just got mixed up\" arguments Trump could have made before would have had little merit - especially when you consider previous historic cases where even a single doc mishandled ended up with someone in jail.\nBut now Trump will be able to dilute that charge completely. He's still fucked on obstruction and everything else (hopefully).", ">\n\nClassified != Compartmentalized, Top Secret, etc.", ">\n\nI agree with you, but I was recently informed that sources say some of these classified documents were classified Top Secret.\nIt does appear as though ABC is confirming that sources are saying that some of these were top secret documents.\n\nSources also told ABC News that the original batch of about 10 documents found in November contains classified vice-presidential briefing papers about foreign countries, some of which were marked top secret.\n\nAnd CNN is not even using the journalistic term source, going so far as to assert that some of these documents were top secret.\n\nSome of the classified documents were “top secret,” the highest level. They were found in three or four boxes that also contained unclassified papers that fall under the Presidential Records Act, CNN has reported.\n\nIf we are going to maintain Integrity about the treatment of top secret classified documents, it is important to hold both sides accountable for their retention of documents.\nThank goodness that Biden's lawyers were up front with the FBI and NARA rather than lying about the retention of documents and obstructing an investigation.\nI really hope that Biden doesn't try to use the executive privilege argument to keep himself from investigation, but this is likely going to be a permanent stain on his reputation and definitely opens up the presidential field in the Democratic Party for 2024.", ">\n\nWhy would this be a permanent stain on Biden’s reputation?", ">\n\nBecause it will 100% be used along with whataboutism to suggest that Biden was going after Trump for the same thing that he was caught doing, regardless of the fact that Biden was not responsible for the investigation into Trump's documents has not been outspoken about the retention of documents, subsequent Lies by his lawyers, and obstruction.\nI'm not saying that it is going to be fair, or even rational but it is going to cause a stain and that will be used to pillory him.", ">\n\nSo in essence, this is only going to be a stain in the minds of people who are rather brainless to begin with….gotcha", ">\n\nIts a stain because it's political ammunition for the other side, not because you or I see it for the opportunitistically timed political assault that it seems to be. In modern politics, being on the defensive is the same as losing. Hillary Clinton's email fiasco likely contributed to the 2016 election results even though she wasn't indicted for a crime.\nThe people on the other side of the political spectrum who would consider this whole fiasco a stain on Biden AREN'T brainless, they're heavily propogandized, and they DO vote. This whole thing will be used to justify any or all of Trump's conduct that should be immediately disqualifying. Expect this to be split-screened with all of Trump's legal woes.\nHopefully Trump won't make it to the 2024 Election season as a viable candidate. If Trump does make it, Trump will use this against Biden. If Trump loses out to someone like DeSantis, there will be a concerted effort to crucify Biden with it.", ">\n\nMy favorite part of this:\nNo raging tweets from the president making up executive powers. Accusing people of planting evidence and arguing about a deep state conspiracy against him.", ">\n\nI’d be hilarious if he copy pasted one of trumps tweets and ended it with JK I’m not a raving lunatic in a middle of a tantrum.", ">\n\nThat would be some great dark Brandon shit.", ">\n\nI am all for a special counsel being appointed. But a Trump appointee feels like an attempt by Garland to bend over backwards to show just how apolitical he is. If he wanted to reach across the aisle, he couldn’t find a Bush appointee rather than someone appointed by a man who literally tried to upend the Republic and is known for appointing partisan hacks?", ">\n\nThis is how Garland has been acting since appointed. It’s like he’s so terrified of being perceived as biased against repubs that he instead acts biased against dems. He has truly been a failure at AG.. even more of a letdown than Mueller", ">\n\nWell, Garland is a conservative….. people think that he must be left wing because Obama nominated him for SCOTUS. NOPE! - he’s right wing and Obama was throwing the GOP a bone. The GOP just hated Obama so fucking much they slapped down a nominee that aligned with them.", ">\n\nTrue, Biden should have appointed someone else", ">\n\nOnly took a year and a half to appoint one for Trump. Also what about that DOJ policy about not investigating and prosecuting a sitting president which protected the former guy for, what, six years now?", ">\n\nGarland is not our friend.", ">\n\nWho’s friend, exactly? What does friendship have to do with accountability to rules and laws?\nAre you suggesting the DOJ should be aligned and friendly with one particular party or another and so they don’t have to follow rules and laws we expect others to comply with?", ">\n\nGarland is not a friend to justice.\nWhy has Trump not been indicted yet? What's the confusion?", ">\n\n\nWhy has Trump not been indicted yet?\n\nwhy would you expect him to have been? the investigation isn't over yet", ">\n\nit explains why they weren't indicted in the article", ">\n\nSome anonymous lawyer being quoted by CNN is not a definitive explanation at all. It's hearsay and well-meaning bullshit. But when the DOJ was asked? \"A spokesperson for the Department of Justice declined to comment.\" But if you do believe that anonymous source, do you really think they have executive privilege, as your source says? How TF do \"advisors\" get privilege?", ">\n\nthey worked in the White House", ">\n\nBad enough that everyone bought that crap, \"The president is immune to criminal prosecution and subpoenas.\" But now we're going to extend it to anyone who worked in the White House?! Holy cow you can't possibly believe that's a good idea.", ">\n\nAs. We. Would. Expect. 🤷‍♂️ \nCan't wait until Biden whines, makes excuses, tries to get a special master, claims that they where declassifi...... Oh wait. Dems don't do any of that.", ">\n\nIt doesn’t even matter cause republicans don’t care about mishandling classified document- oh wait…now they do.", ">\n\nAs a Democrat I am pretty pissed off at Biden for this, but I would be willing to bet he didn't know the documents were there. \nThat said, I am a strong believer in people being punished for breaking the law, even if they are on my \"team.\"\nIf he broke the law, punish him. \nJust make sure that that miserable, racist orange thing that yells all the time gets his as well.\nThis is the only way to have nice things.", ">\n\nBiden isn't asking for a special grand master or looking for a favorable court... weird.", ">\n\nLove how it took 2 years to do this for trump, and he ain't even president, 2 days for Biden and he is president. \nTo be clear, I'm not saying there shouldn't be an investigation, I'm saying Garland is showing his true colors pretty strongly with the disparity.\nEdit: I'm muting this thread, not trying to get banned for cussing some fool out again. Have a good night y'all.", ">\n\nThe difference will always be that most democrats are just fine with an investigation. Because they care about good governance instead of personality cults.", ">\n\nYeah, it's like Goofus and Gallant. Except Goofus wins every other election and beats your head in with a bat.", ">\n\nWeird how Garland can move with lightning speed when it’s a cover-your-ass political move. Lightning speed.", ">\n\nFucking ridiculous the kid-gloves treatment that Trump gets.", ">\n\nI feel like Trump is about to get his shit kicked in here by Jack Smith in about a month or so when the indictments start coming", ">\n\nI feel like someone has said this every month for the last 6 years. The point is, Trump is untouchable. His angry mob would never succeed in overthrowing the government, but they would likely affect quarterly profits.", ">\n\nThis right here. Gotta keep the wolves fed or they might bite you. \nDomestic Terrorism discourages commerce. They’re fucking cowards.", ">\n\nHow's that Trump indictment coming?", ">\n\nThis is all I'm concerned about. Biden's situation I'm sure will work itself out, but Trump has most certainly committed crimes well beyond and before simply having classified documents. I'm not even saying Biden hasn't broken the law, and he should be dealt with accordingly, but Trump has been a national security hazard and criminal since long before classified documents were found and obstruction was clearly committed to shield them, and this Biden situation should, in no way, get in the way of that case, which seems long overdue.", ">\n\nWeird. I thought the DOJ didn’t want to investigate presidents.", ">\n\nWeird, I recall the DOJ investigating Trump while he was president. And Clinton.", ">\n\nI'm not confused about it. There's no policy against investigating presidents, which is why the numerous investigations into recent sitting presidents happened and were not against any policy. There is a policy against indicting them, though that's not legally binding in any way, just a stated approach that the Justice dept. has outlined in the past.", ">\n\nThe difference between Republicans and Dems is on display again. \nNo cults, no obstructing. Let the legal system do its thing.", ">\n\nSo... he can move fast??", ">\n\nThis proves that Garland is exquisitely sensitive to (Republican) public opinion, which proves to me that he will never indict Trump.", ">\n\nHe has stated many times that no person is above the law. This proves that he's practices what he preaches.", ">\n\nDoes it though? He holds D’s to the rule of law, but drags his feet with R’s.. all to try to seem impartial. He is not holding everyone to the same standard.", ">\n\nthis is a good move despite what wackos in this sub will say. the alternative would be jim jordan and the house intelligence committee running crazy conspiracy theories over this investigation. \nwith this special counsel it will at least be an actual legitimate investigation that will in all likelihood tamper the political effects for biden, as well as create a more legitimate nonpartisan line between this and the trump situation. it won't matter for republicans anyway, but the appearance of impropriety is good!\nobviously there's some hiccup in whatever processes for classified documents there are if they can be mixed in with other documents, put in places they aren't supposed to be, forgotten about, etc. and perhaps that can come to light as a result of both of these investigations and those processes can be revised to address these issues, whether intentionally mishandled or mishandled due to ignorance/an accident.", ">\n\n\nthe alternative would be jim jordan and the house intelligence committee running crazy conspiracy theories over this investigation. \n\ni don't think is an \"either or\" kind of situation. you'll still get jim's hot take of the day once they set up the committee.", ">\n\nsure but as far as document requests and the like it could make it more complicated for the house to go as apeshit as they would otherwise", ">\n\nNo it won't. Because they are not grounded in reality. Just watch.", ">\n\ni mean the law still exists lol", ">\n\nDoes it, though?", ">\n\nyes\ndo you think jim jordan can just walk over to DOJ and grab a bunch of documents and tell the DOJ to fuck off?", ">\n\nNo. But he can tell the House to fuck off when they subpoena him. And that subpoena is referred to the DOJ for enforcement, Merrick Garland can sit on it for weeks and then eventually decline to prosecute. Just like it happened with Meadows.", ">\n\nSure, sounds reasonable. Seems pretty likely somebody committed a crime. \nRemind me again why Garland took 20 extra months to take action when a Republican had documents like this?", ">\n\nMerrick Garland took two years to appoint a special counsel to Trump but he took 1 week to appoint a special counsel to Biden. Is he trying to please the Republican house or someone powerful is really trying hard that Biden don't run again. What an idiotic decision. He is giving fuel to republicans. Any normal person would understand that Biden administration is co-operating with the appropriate authority to resolve this matter. I am so disappointed at Merrick Garland.", ">\n\nSo the day after trump announced he was running he appointed a special counsel. The day after Biden (presumptive candidate) is being investigated, appoint a special counsel.... seems consistent.", ">\n\nI understand the frustration, however, what's the alternative choice? \nDemocrats should let immoral and unethical actions of their members? \nDoesn't it sound ridiculous to suggest being lawful and ethical is losing?\nWhat the democrats need to do is clean up their dependence on big donor moneys by making significant changes to the laws surrounding political campaigns. \nWhen Republican's don't vote for campaign reform, they should be examined carefully by journalists, then shamed for any corruption, and arrested for any crimes.", ">\n\nI like this comment; there is a core of truth and clearheaded observation within that would likely solve most things political, if we can just convince the first national politician to unlatch from the corporate money tit. Someone has to be the wind-dummy, the maverick, and it would certainly be someone with enough independent wealth to tell the corporations and lobbyists to kick rocks. Hell, if even the congressional leadership adopted this tactic, media pressure would steer the others. \nSounds very cool. Who’s first?", ">\n\nI don't know why everyone is making such a big deal about this. Obama declassified all of these documents on his last day in office. He didn't tell anyone, but since he thought it, they are declassified. You can't prove me wrong.", ">\n\nA complete outrage. It took Garland nearly TWO YEARS of begging Trump pretty please for his documents back AND a warrant before a Special Prosecutor could be assigned on Trump, but within two months, he’s out front and center appointing one on Biden? Fuck all Garland apologists.", ">\n\nBefore Trump announced his candidacy for 2024, Garland didn't need a special counsel. He could investigate him directly.", ">\n\n“Could”", ">\n\nwhy are you using quotes? he was and is currently being investigated lol", ">\n\nOh yeah two years and the Georgia election officials weren’t even subpoenaed until last north by Jack Smith. Tell me more of this mythical investigation you think Garland was doing.", ">\n\nso you think there was no investigation?", ">\n\nSure, as slow walked and as toothless as it could be", ">\n\nit's not finished lol", ">\n\nGArlANd NEedS MoRE TiME tO bUiLd A cASE", ">\n\nand what exactly are your qualifications for investigating and prosecuting someone in federal court for a potential violation of the espionage act/obstruction of justice?", ">\n\nTrump and Biden should both be investigated for illegally having classified documents, the more serious crimes are the lying and obstruction of justice. If you steal a cookie from the cookie jar that’s a “crime” but if you confess to you parents it’s not as bad as if you’re parents catch you and confront you and you lie and try to blame someone else or say they have no authority over cookies and tell them to f-off. Your parents won’t be happy about either situation but one is clearly exponentially worse.", ">\n\nI'm guessing that's the end for Biden re-election dreams. Thank God. Hopefully dems find someone willing to run in 24 that isn't kamala Harris.", ">\n\nI voted for Biden and I’m fine with this.", ">\n\nSame.", ">\n\nWonder if anyone will remember either of these cases in 2024", ">\n\nIt won't matter once the investigation concludes Biden didn't do anything criminal and everyone moves on to something else.\nWe were assured Afghanistan would put Republicans right back into power and that didn't happen. This will be no different." ]

[ "Do a complete investigation, gather the evidence, follow all procedures and the law, seek justice without fear or favor no matter who is involved. Figure this mess out.", ">\n\nFully agree - and I'd actually like the investigation to be concluded swiftly since the ones being investigated will likely be 100% cooperative. It's not like DoJ will have to be dealing with full on liars and criminals which takes forever to find the answers.", ">\n\nI 100% agree that there ought to be a reasonable investigation into this but I do have to wonder if any of this matters at all given that Biden is currently the president and therefore has not only the right to have classified information but also the ability to declassify that information.\nNot trying to make excuses for the oversight (or lack thereof) of classified documents, but it seems to me as though this requires an investigation into how classified documents are handled during and after individuals have been given such status and after said status has lapsed.\nLet's be perfectly honest, if they had taken different actions on the first set of documents, we likely wouldn't even know about this because there was nobody searching for them.\nHad Biden and his lawyers actually been seriously corrupt, they could easily have disposed of them in a fireplace or down a toilet and no one would know the better.\nThe fact that they brought this directly to the attention of the proper authorities is at least proof that they do have respect for the rule of law and are willing to except the consequences, even if it is going to be used to make political hay while the sun shines.\nThat said, this likely has huge implications for executive privilege, especially to the extent that the former president argued he had. I personally do not have a problem with the minister of th Office of the President being able to be held accountable for their actions but only if it is equally applied across the board and not just something that we will have to deal with when presidents from the Democratic party are being scrutinized.", ">\n\n\nhas not only the right to have classified information but also the ability to declassify that information.\n\nHe does. But apparently these docs were from his Vice Presidency under Obama. So, it's a bit uncertain.\nAnd it really undermines at least one of the central charges you could have lodged against Trump, that everyone that is able to access classified documents has a substantive responsibility to make sure they are handled appropriately. The \"oh, well, we had to leave in a hurry and things just got mixed up\" arguments Trump could have made before would have had little merit - especially when you consider previous historic cases where even a single doc mishandled ended up with someone in jail.\nBut now Trump will be able to dilute that charge completely. He's still fucked on obstruction and everything else (hopefully).", ">\n\nClassified != Compartmentalized, Top Secret, etc.", ">\n\nI agree with you, but I was recently informed that sources say some of these classified documents were classified Top Secret.\nIt does appear as though ABC is confirming that sources are saying that some of these were top secret documents.\n\nSources also told ABC News that the original batch of about 10 documents found in November contains classified vice-presidential briefing papers about foreign countries, some of which were marked top secret.\n\nAnd CNN is not even using the journalistic term source, going so far as to assert that some of these documents were top secret.\n\nSome of the classified documents were “top secret,” the highest level. They were found in three or four boxes that also contained unclassified papers that fall under the Presidential Records Act, CNN has reported.\n\nIf we are going to maintain Integrity about the treatment of top secret classified documents, it is important to hold both sides accountable for their retention of documents.\nThank goodness that Biden's lawyers were up front with the FBI and NARA rather than lying about the retention of documents and obstructing an investigation.\nI really hope that Biden doesn't try to use the executive privilege argument to keep himself from investigation, but this is likely going to be a permanent stain on his reputation and definitely opens up the presidential field in the Democratic Party for 2024.", ">\n\nWhy would this be a permanent stain on Biden’s reputation?", ">\n\nBecause it will 100% be used along with whataboutism to suggest that Biden was going after Trump for the same thing that he was caught doing, regardless of the fact that Biden was not responsible for the investigation into Trump's documents has not been outspoken about the retention of documents, subsequent Lies by his lawyers, and obstruction.\nI'm not saying that it is going to be fair, or even rational but it is going to cause a stain and that will be used to pillory him.", ">\n\nSo in essence, this is only going to be a stain in the minds of people who are rather brainless to begin with….gotcha", ">\n\nIts a stain because it's political ammunition for the other side, not because you or I see it for the opportunitistically timed political assault that it seems to be. In modern politics, being on the defensive is the same as losing. Hillary Clinton's email fiasco likely contributed to the 2016 election results even though she wasn't indicted for a crime.\nThe people on the other side of the political spectrum who would consider this whole fiasco a stain on Biden AREN'T brainless, they're heavily propogandized, and they DO vote. This whole thing will be used to justify any or all of Trump's conduct that should be immediately disqualifying. Expect this to be split-screened with all of Trump's legal woes.\nHopefully Trump won't make it to the 2024 Election season as a viable candidate. If Trump does make it, Trump will use this against Biden. If Trump loses out to someone like DeSantis, there will be a concerted effort to crucify Biden with it.", ">\n\nMy favorite part of this:\nNo raging tweets from the president making up executive powers. Accusing people of planting evidence and arguing about a deep state conspiracy against him.", ">\n\nI’d be hilarious if he copy pasted one of trumps tweets and ended it with JK I’m not a raving lunatic in a middle of a tantrum.", ">\n\nThat would be some great dark Brandon shit.", ">\n\nI am all for a special counsel being appointed. But a Trump appointee feels like an attempt by Garland to bend over backwards to show just how apolitical he is. If he wanted to reach across the aisle, he couldn’t find a Bush appointee rather than someone appointed by a man who literally tried to upend the Republic and is known for appointing partisan hacks?", ">\n\nThis is how Garland has been acting since appointed. It’s like he’s so terrified of being perceived as biased against repubs that he instead acts biased against dems. He has truly been a failure at AG.. even more of a letdown than Mueller", ">\n\nWell, Garland is a conservative….. people think that he must be left wing because Obama nominated him for SCOTUS. NOPE! - he’s right wing and Obama was throwing the GOP a bone. The GOP just hated Obama so fucking much they slapped down a nominee that aligned with them.", ">\n\nTrue, Biden should have appointed someone else", ">\n\nOnly took a year and a half to appoint one for Trump. Also what about that DOJ policy about not investigating and prosecuting a sitting president which protected the former guy for, what, six years now?", ">\n\nGarland is not our friend.", ">\n\nWho’s friend, exactly? What does friendship have to do with accountability to rules and laws?\nAre you suggesting the DOJ should be aligned and friendly with one particular party or another and so they don’t have to follow rules and laws we expect others to comply with?", ">\n\nGarland is not a friend to justice.\nWhy has Trump not been indicted yet? What's the confusion?", ">\n\n\nWhy has Trump not been indicted yet?\n\nwhy would you expect him to have been? the investigation isn't over yet", ">\n\nit explains why they weren't indicted in the article", ">\n\nSome anonymous lawyer being quoted by CNN is not a definitive explanation at all. It's hearsay and well-meaning bullshit. But when the DOJ was asked? \"A spokesperson for the Department of Justice declined to comment.\" But if you do believe that anonymous source, do you really think they have executive privilege, as your source says? How TF do \"advisors\" get privilege?", ">\n\nthey worked in the White House", ">\n\nBad enough that everyone bought that crap, \"The president is immune to criminal prosecution and subpoenas.\" But now we're going to extend it to anyone who worked in the White House?! Holy cow you can't possibly believe that's a good idea.", ">\n\nAs. We. Would. Expect. 🤷‍♂️ \nCan't wait until Biden whines, makes excuses, tries to get a special master, claims that they where declassifi...... Oh wait. Dems don't do any of that.", ">\n\nIt doesn’t even matter cause republicans don’t care about mishandling classified document- oh wait…now they do.", ">\n\nAs a Democrat I am pretty pissed off at Biden for this, but I would be willing to bet he didn't know the documents were there. \nThat said, I am a strong believer in people being punished for breaking the law, even if they are on my \"team.\"\nIf he broke the law, punish him. \nJust make sure that that miserable, racist orange thing that yells all the time gets his as well.\nThis is the only way to have nice things.", ">\n\nBiden isn't asking for a special grand master or looking for a favorable court... weird.", ">\n\nLove how it took 2 years to do this for trump, and he ain't even president, 2 days for Biden and he is president. \nTo be clear, I'm not saying there shouldn't be an investigation, I'm saying Garland is showing his true colors pretty strongly with the disparity.\nEdit: I'm muting this thread, not trying to get banned for cussing some fool out again. Have a good night y'all.", ">\n\nThe difference will always be that most democrats are just fine with an investigation. Because they care about good governance instead of personality cults.", ">\n\nYeah, it's like Goofus and Gallant. Except Goofus wins every other election and beats your head in with a bat.", ">\n\nWeird how Garland can move with lightning speed when it’s a cover-your-ass political move. Lightning speed.", ">\n\nFucking ridiculous the kid-gloves treatment that Trump gets.", ">\n\nI feel like Trump is about to get his shit kicked in here by Jack Smith in about a month or so when the indictments start coming", ">\n\nI feel like someone has said this every month for the last 6 years. The point is, Trump is untouchable. His angry mob would never succeed in overthrowing the government, but they would likely affect quarterly profits.", ">\n\nThis right here. Gotta keep the wolves fed or they might bite you. \nDomestic Terrorism discourages commerce. They’re fucking cowards.", ">\n\nHow's that Trump indictment coming?", ">\n\nThis is all I'm concerned about. Biden's situation I'm sure will work itself out, but Trump has most certainly committed crimes well beyond and before simply having classified documents. I'm not even saying Biden hasn't broken the law, and he should be dealt with accordingly, but Trump has been a national security hazard and criminal since long before classified documents were found and obstruction was clearly committed to shield them, and this Biden situation should, in no way, get in the way of that case, which seems long overdue.", ">\n\nWeird. I thought the DOJ didn’t want to investigate presidents.", ">\n\nWeird, I recall the DOJ investigating Trump while he was president. And Clinton.", ">\n\nI'm not confused about it. There's no policy against investigating presidents, which is why the numerous investigations into recent sitting presidents happened and were not against any policy. There is a policy against indicting them, though that's not legally binding in any way, just a stated approach that the Justice dept. has outlined in the past.", ">\n\nThe difference between Republicans and Dems is on display again. \nNo cults, no obstructing. Let the legal system do its thing.", ">\n\nSo... he can move fast??", ">\n\nThis proves that Garland is exquisitely sensitive to (Republican) public opinion, which proves to me that he will never indict Trump.", ">\n\nHe has stated many times that no person is above the law. This proves that he's practices what he preaches.", ">\n\nDoes it though? He holds D’s to the rule of law, but drags his feet with R’s.. all to try to seem impartial. He is not holding everyone to the same standard.", ">\n\nthis is a good move despite what wackos in this sub will say. the alternative would be jim jordan and the house intelligence committee running crazy conspiracy theories over this investigation. \nwith this special counsel it will at least be an actual legitimate investigation that will in all likelihood tamper the political effects for biden, as well as create a more legitimate nonpartisan line between this and the trump situation. it won't matter for republicans anyway, but the appearance of impropriety is good!\nobviously there's some hiccup in whatever processes for classified documents there are if they can be mixed in with other documents, put in places they aren't supposed to be, forgotten about, etc. and perhaps that can come to light as a result of both of these investigations and those processes can be revised to address these issues, whether intentionally mishandled or mishandled due to ignorance/an accident.", ">\n\n\nthe alternative would be jim jordan and the house intelligence committee running crazy conspiracy theories over this investigation. \n\ni don't think is an \"either or\" kind of situation. you'll still get jim's hot take of the day once they set up the committee.", ">\n\nsure but as far as document requests and the like it could make it more complicated for the house to go as apeshit as they would otherwise", ">\n\nNo it won't. Because they are not grounded in reality. Just watch.", ">\n\ni mean the law still exists lol", ">\n\nDoes it, though?", ">\n\nyes\ndo you think jim jordan can just walk over to DOJ and grab a bunch of documents and tell the DOJ to fuck off?", ">\n\nNo. But he can tell the House to fuck off when they subpoena him. And that subpoena is referred to the DOJ for enforcement, Merrick Garland can sit on it for weeks and then eventually decline to prosecute. Just like it happened with Meadows.", ">\n\nSure, sounds reasonable. Seems pretty likely somebody committed a crime. \nRemind me again why Garland took 20 extra months to take action when a Republican had documents like this?", ">\n\nMerrick Garland took two years to appoint a special counsel to Trump but he took 1 week to appoint a special counsel to Biden. Is he trying to please the Republican house or someone powerful is really trying hard that Biden don't run again. What an idiotic decision. He is giving fuel to republicans. Any normal person would understand that Biden administration is co-operating with the appropriate authority to resolve this matter. I am so disappointed at Merrick Garland.", ">\n\nSo the day after trump announced he was running he appointed a special counsel. The day after Biden (presumptive candidate) is being investigated, appoint a special counsel.... seems consistent.", ">\n\nI understand the frustration, however, what's the alternative choice? \nDemocrats should let immoral and unethical actions of their members? \nDoesn't it sound ridiculous to suggest being lawful and ethical is losing?\nWhat the democrats need to do is clean up their dependence on big donor moneys by making significant changes to the laws surrounding political campaigns. \nWhen Republican's don't vote for campaign reform, they should be examined carefully by journalists, then shamed for any corruption, and arrested for any crimes.", ">\n\nI like this comment; there is a core of truth and clearheaded observation within that would likely solve most things political, if we can just convince the first national politician to unlatch from the corporate money tit. Someone has to be the wind-dummy, the maverick, and it would certainly be someone with enough independent wealth to tell the corporations and lobbyists to kick rocks. Hell, if even the congressional leadership adopted this tactic, media pressure would steer the others. \nSounds very cool. Who’s first?", ">\n\nI don't know why everyone is making such a big deal about this. Obama declassified all of these documents on his last day in office. He didn't tell anyone, but since he thought it, they are declassified. You can't prove me wrong.", ">\n\nA complete outrage. It took Garland nearly TWO YEARS of begging Trump pretty please for his documents back AND a warrant before a Special Prosecutor could be assigned on Trump, but within two months, he’s out front and center appointing one on Biden? Fuck all Garland apologists.", ">\n\nBefore Trump announced his candidacy for 2024, Garland didn't need a special counsel. He could investigate him directly.", ">\n\n“Could”", ">\n\nwhy are you using quotes? he was and is currently being investigated lol", ">\n\nOh yeah two years and the Georgia election officials weren’t even subpoenaed until last north by Jack Smith. Tell me more of this mythical investigation you think Garland was doing.", ">\n\nso you think there was no investigation?", ">\n\nSure, as slow walked and as toothless as it could be", ">\n\nit's not finished lol", ">\n\nGArlANd NEedS MoRE TiME tO bUiLd A cASE", ">\n\nand what exactly are your qualifications for investigating and prosecuting someone in federal court for a potential violation of the espionage act/obstruction of justice?", ">\n\nTrump and Biden should both be investigated for illegally having classified documents, the more serious crimes are the lying and obstruction of justice. If you steal a cookie from the cookie jar that’s a “crime” but if you confess to you parents it’s not as bad as if you’re parents catch you and confront you and you lie and try to blame someone else or say they have no authority over cookies and tell them to f-off. Your parents won’t be happy about either situation but one is clearly exponentially worse.", ">\n\nI'm guessing that's the end for Biden re-election dreams. Thank God. Hopefully dems find someone willing to run in 24 that isn't kamala Harris.", ">\n\nI voted for Biden and I’m fine with this.", ">\n\nSame.", ">\n\nWonder if anyone will remember either of these cases in 2024", ">\n\nIt won't matter once the investigation concludes Biden didn't do anything criminal and everyone moves on to something else.\nWe were assured Afghanistan would put Republicans right back into power and that didn't happen. This will be no different.", ">\n\nSounds good. And if actual malicious intent is found, prosecute anybody involved. \nY'know, malicious intent like refusing to return the documents, altering some by hand, letting some of them go missing, lying about how many they have, and not cooperating with the DOJ." ]

[ "Do a complete investigation, gather the evidence, follow all procedures and the law, seek justice without fear or favor no matter who is involved. Figure this mess out.", ">\n\nFully agree - and I'd actually like the investigation to be concluded swiftly since the ones being investigated will likely be 100% cooperative. It's not like DoJ will have to be dealing with full on liars and criminals which takes forever to find the answers.", ">\n\nI 100% agree that there ought to be a reasonable investigation into this but I do have to wonder if any of this matters at all given that Biden is currently the president and therefore has not only the right to have classified information but also the ability to declassify that information.\nNot trying to make excuses for the oversight (or lack thereof) of classified documents, but it seems to me as though this requires an investigation into how classified documents are handled during and after individuals have been given such status and after said status has lapsed.\nLet's be perfectly honest, if they had taken different actions on the first set of documents, we likely wouldn't even know about this because there was nobody searching for them.\nHad Biden and his lawyers actually been seriously corrupt, they could easily have disposed of them in a fireplace or down a toilet and no one would know the better.\nThe fact that they brought this directly to the attention of the proper authorities is at least proof that they do have respect for the rule of law and are willing to except the consequences, even if it is going to be used to make political hay while the sun shines.\nThat said, this likely has huge implications for executive privilege, especially to the extent that the former president argued he had. I personally do not have a problem with the minister of th Office of the President being able to be held accountable for their actions but only if it is equally applied across the board and not just something that we will have to deal with when presidents from the Democratic party are being scrutinized.", ">\n\n\nhas not only the right to have classified information but also the ability to declassify that information.\n\nHe does. But apparently these docs were from his Vice Presidency under Obama. So, it's a bit uncertain.\nAnd it really undermines at least one of the central charges you could have lodged against Trump, that everyone that is able to access classified documents has a substantive responsibility to make sure they are handled appropriately. The \"oh, well, we had to leave in a hurry and things just got mixed up\" arguments Trump could have made before would have had little merit - especially when you consider previous historic cases where even a single doc mishandled ended up with someone in jail.\nBut now Trump will be able to dilute that charge completely. He's still fucked on obstruction and everything else (hopefully).", ">\n\nClassified != Compartmentalized, Top Secret, etc.", ">\n\nI agree with you, but I was recently informed that sources say some of these classified documents were classified Top Secret.\nIt does appear as though ABC is confirming that sources are saying that some of these were top secret documents.\n\nSources also told ABC News that the original batch of about 10 documents found in November contains classified vice-presidential briefing papers about foreign countries, some of which were marked top secret.\n\nAnd CNN is not even using the journalistic term source, going so far as to assert that some of these documents were top secret.\n\nSome of the classified documents were “top secret,” the highest level. They were found in three or four boxes that also contained unclassified papers that fall under the Presidential Records Act, CNN has reported.\n\nIf we are going to maintain Integrity about the treatment of top secret classified documents, it is important to hold both sides accountable for their retention of documents.\nThank goodness that Biden's lawyers were up front with the FBI and NARA rather than lying about the retention of documents and obstructing an investigation.\nI really hope that Biden doesn't try to use the executive privilege argument to keep himself from investigation, but this is likely going to be a permanent stain on his reputation and definitely opens up the presidential field in the Democratic Party for 2024.", ">\n\nWhy would this be a permanent stain on Biden’s reputation?", ">\n\nBecause it will 100% be used along with whataboutism to suggest that Biden was going after Trump for the same thing that he was caught doing, regardless of the fact that Biden was not responsible for the investigation into Trump's documents has not been outspoken about the retention of documents, subsequent Lies by his lawyers, and obstruction.\nI'm not saying that it is going to be fair, or even rational but it is going to cause a stain and that will be used to pillory him.", ">\n\nSo in essence, this is only going to be a stain in the minds of people who are rather brainless to begin with….gotcha", ">\n\nIts a stain because it's political ammunition for the other side, not because you or I see it for the opportunitistically timed political assault that it seems to be. In modern politics, being on the defensive is the same as losing. Hillary Clinton's email fiasco likely contributed to the 2016 election results even though she wasn't indicted for a crime.\nThe people on the other side of the political spectrum who would consider this whole fiasco a stain on Biden AREN'T brainless, they're heavily propogandized, and they DO vote. This whole thing will be used to justify any or all of Trump's conduct that should be immediately disqualifying. Expect this to be split-screened with all of Trump's legal woes.\nHopefully Trump won't make it to the 2024 Election season as a viable candidate. If Trump does make it, Trump will use this against Biden. If Trump loses out to someone like DeSantis, there will be a concerted effort to crucify Biden with it.", ">\n\nMy favorite part of this:\nNo raging tweets from the president making up executive powers. Accusing people of planting evidence and arguing about a deep state conspiracy against him.", ">\n\nI’d be hilarious if he copy pasted one of trumps tweets and ended it with JK I’m not a raving lunatic in a middle of a tantrum.", ">\n\nThat would be some great dark Brandon shit.", ">\n\nI am all for a special counsel being appointed. But a Trump appointee feels like an attempt by Garland to bend over backwards to show just how apolitical he is. If he wanted to reach across the aisle, he couldn’t find a Bush appointee rather than someone appointed by a man who literally tried to upend the Republic and is known for appointing partisan hacks?", ">\n\nThis is how Garland has been acting since appointed. It’s like he’s so terrified of being perceived as biased against repubs that he instead acts biased against dems. He has truly been a failure at AG.. even more of a letdown than Mueller", ">\n\nWell, Garland is a conservative….. people think that he must be left wing because Obama nominated him for SCOTUS. NOPE! - he’s right wing and Obama was throwing the GOP a bone. The GOP just hated Obama so fucking much they slapped down a nominee that aligned with them.", ">\n\nTrue, Biden should have appointed someone else", ">\n\nOnly took a year and a half to appoint one for Trump. Also what about that DOJ policy about not investigating and prosecuting a sitting president which protected the former guy for, what, six years now?", ">\n\nGarland is not our friend.", ">\n\nWho’s friend, exactly? What does friendship have to do with accountability to rules and laws?\nAre you suggesting the DOJ should be aligned and friendly with one particular party or another and so they don’t have to follow rules and laws we expect others to comply with?", ">\n\nGarland is not a friend to justice.\nWhy has Trump not been indicted yet? What's the confusion?", ">\n\n\nWhy has Trump not been indicted yet?\n\nwhy would you expect him to have been? the investigation isn't over yet", ">\n\nit explains why they weren't indicted in the article", ">\n\nSome anonymous lawyer being quoted by CNN is not a definitive explanation at all. It's hearsay and well-meaning bullshit. But when the DOJ was asked? \"A spokesperson for the Department of Justice declined to comment.\" But if you do believe that anonymous source, do you really think they have executive privilege, as your source says? How TF do \"advisors\" get privilege?", ">\n\nthey worked in the White House", ">\n\nBad enough that everyone bought that crap, \"The president is immune to criminal prosecution and subpoenas.\" But now we're going to extend it to anyone who worked in the White House?! Holy cow you can't possibly believe that's a good idea.", ">\n\nAs. We. Would. Expect. 🤷‍♂️ \nCan't wait until Biden whines, makes excuses, tries to get a special master, claims that they where declassifi...... Oh wait. Dems don't do any of that.", ">\n\nIt doesn’t even matter cause republicans don’t care about mishandling classified document- oh wait…now they do.", ">\n\nAs a Democrat I am pretty pissed off at Biden for this, but I would be willing to bet he didn't know the documents were there. \nThat said, I am a strong believer in people being punished for breaking the law, even if they are on my \"team.\"\nIf he broke the law, punish him. \nJust make sure that that miserable, racist orange thing that yells all the time gets his as well.\nThis is the only way to have nice things.", ">\n\nBiden isn't asking for a special grand master or looking for a favorable court... weird.", ">\n\nLove how it took 2 years to do this for trump, and he ain't even president, 2 days for Biden and he is president. \nTo be clear, I'm not saying there shouldn't be an investigation, I'm saying Garland is showing his true colors pretty strongly with the disparity.\nEdit: I'm muting this thread, not trying to get banned for cussing some fool out again. Have a good night y'all.", ">\n\nThe difference will always be that most democrats are just fine with an investigation. Because they care about good governance instead of personality cults.", ">\n\nYeah, it's like Goofus and Gallant. Except Goofus wins every other election and beats your head in with a bat.", ">\n\nWeird how Garland can move with lightning speed when it’s a cover-your-ass political move. Lightning speed.", ">\n\nFucking ridiculous the kid-gloves treatment that Trump gets.", ">\n\nI feel like Trump is about to get his shit kicked in here by Jack Smith in about a month or so when the indictments start coming", ">\n\nI feel like someone has said this every month for the last 6 years. The point is, Trump is untouchable. His angry mob would never succeed in overthrowing the government, but they would likely affect quarterly profits.", ">\n\nThis right here. Gotta keep the wolves fed or they might bite you. \nDomestic Terrorism discourages commerce. They’re fucking cowards.", ">\n\nHow's that Trump indictment coming?", ">\n\nThis is all I'm concerned about. Biden's situation I'm sure will work itself out, but Trump has most certainly committed crimes well beyond and before simply having classified documents. I'm not even saying Biden hasn't broken the law, and he should be dealt with accordingly, but Trump has been a national security hazard and criminal since long before classified documents were found and obstruction was clearly committed to shield them, and this Biden situation should, in no way, get in the way of that case, which seems long overdue.", ">\n\nWeird. I thought the DOJ didn’t want to investigate presidents.", ">\n\nWeird, I recall the DOJ investigating Trump while he was president. And Clinton.", ">\n\nI'm not confused about it. There's no policy against investigating presidents, which is why the numerous investigations into recent sitting presidents happened and were not against any policy. There is a policy against indicting them, though that's not legally binding in any way, just a stated approach that the Justice dept. has outlined in the past.", ">\n\nThe difference between Republicans and Dems is on display again. \nNo cults, no obstructing. Let the legal system do its thing.", ">\n\nSo... he can move fast??", ">\n\nThis proves that Garland is exquisitely sensitive to (Republican) public opinion, which proves to me that he will never indict Trump.", ">\n\nHe has stated many times that no person is above the law. This proves that he's practices what he preaches.", ">\n\nDoes it though? He holds D’s to the rule of law, but drags his feet with R’s.. all to try to seem impartial. He is not holding everyone to the same standard.", ">\n\nthis is a good move despite what wackos in this sub will say. the alternative would be jim jordan and the house intelligence committee running crazy conspiracy theories over this investigation. \nwith this special counsel it will at least be an actual legitimate investigation that will in all likelihood tamper the political effects for biden, as well as create a more legitimate nonpartisan line between this and the trump situation. it won't matter for republicans anyway, but the appearance of impropriety is good!\nobviously there's some hiccup in whatever processes for classified documents there are if they can be mixed in with other documents, put in places they aren't supposed to be, forgotten about, etc. and perhaps that can come to light as a result of both of these investigations and those processes can be revised to address these issues, whether intentionally mishandled or mishandled due to ignorance/an accident.", ">\n\n\nthe alternative would be jim jordan and the house intelligence committee running crazy conspiracy theories over this investigation. \n\ni don't think is an \"either or\" kind of situation. you'll still get jim's hot take of the day once they set up the committee.", ">\n\nsure but as far as document requests and the like it could make it more complicated for the house to go as apeshit as they would otherwise", ">\n\nNo it won't. Because they are not grounded in reality. Just watch.", ">\n\ni mean the law still exists lol", ">\n\nDoes it, though?", ">\n\nyes\ndo you think jim jordan can just walk over to DOJ and grab a bunch of documents and tell the DOJ to fuck off?", ">\n\nNo. But he can tell the House to fuck off when they subpoena him. And that subpoena is referred to the DOJ for enforcement, Merrick Garland can sit on it for weeks and then eventually decline to prosecute. Just like it happened with Meadows.", ">\n\nSure, sounds reasonable. Seems pretty likely somebody committed a crime. \nRemind me again why Garland took 20 extra months to take action when a Republican had documents like this?", ">\n\nMerrick Garland took two years to appoint a special counsel to Trump but he took 1 week to appoint a special counsel to Biden. Is he trying to please the Republican house or someone powerful is really trying hard that Biden don't run again. What an idiotic decision. He is giving fuel to republicans. Any normal person would understand that Biden administration is co-operating with the appropriate authority to resolve this matter. I am so disappointed at Merrick Garland.", ">\n\nSo the day after trump announced he was running he appointed a special counsel. The day after Biden (presumptive candidate) is being investigated, appoint a special counsel.... seems consistent.", ">\n\nI understand the frustration, however, what's the alternative choice? \nDemocrats should let immoral and unethical actions of their members? \nDoesn't it sound ridiculous to suggest being lawful and ethical is losing?\nWhat the democrats need to do is clean up their dependence on big donor moneys by making significant changes to the laws surrounding political campaigns. \nWhen Republican's don't vote for campaign reform, they should be examined carefully by journalists, then shamed for any corruption, and arrested for any crimes.", ">\n\nI like this comment; there is a core of truth and clearheaded observation within that would likely solve most things political, if we can just convince the first national politician to unlatch from the corporate money tit. Someone has to be the wind-dummy, the maverick, and it would certainly be someone with enough independent wealth to tell the corporations and lobbyists to kick rocks. Hell, if even the congressional leadership adopted this tactic, media pressure would steer the others. \nSounds very cool. Who’s first?", ">\n\nI don't know why everyone is making such a big deal about this. Obama declassified all of these documents on his last day in office. He didn't tell anyone, but since he thought it, they are declassified. You can't prove me wrong.", ">\n\nA complete outrage. It took Garland nearly TWO YEARS of begging Trump pretty please for his documents back AND a warrant before a Special Prosecutor could be assigned on Trump, but within two months, he’s out front and center appointing one on Biden? Fuck all Garland apologists.", ">\n\nBefore Trump announced his candidacy for 2024, Garland didn't need a special counsel. He could investigate him directly.", ">\n\n“Could”", ">\n\nwhy are you using quotes? he was and is currently being investigated lol", ">\n\nOh yeah two years and the Georgia election officials weren’t even subpoenaed until last north by Jack Smith. Tell me more of this mythical investigation you think Garland was doing.", ">\n\nso you think there was no investigation?", ">\n\nSure, as slow walked and as toothless as it could be", ">\n\nit's not finished lol", ">\n\nGArlANd NEedS MoRE TiME tO bUiLd A cASE", ">\n\nand what exactly are your qualifications for investigating and prosecuting someone in federal court for a potential violation of the espionage act/obstruction of justice?", ">\n\nTrump and Biden should both be investigated for illegally having classified documents, the more serious crimes are the lying and obstruction of justice. If you steal a cookie from the cookie jar that’s a “crime” but if you confess to you parents it’s not as bad as if you’re parents catch you and confront you and you lie and try to blame someone else or say they have no authority over cookies and tell them to f-off. Your parents won’t be happy about either situation but one is clearly exponentially worse.", ">\n\nI'm guessing that's the end for Biden re-election dreams. Thank God. Hopefully dems find someone willing to run in 24 that isn't kamala Harris.", ">\n\nI voted for Biden and I’m fine with this.", ">\n\nSame.", ">\n\nWonder if anyone will remember either of these cases in 2024", ">\n\nIt won't matter once the investigation concludes Biden didn't do anything criminal and everyone moves on to something else.\nWe were assured Afghanistan would put Republicans right back into power and that didn't happen. This will be no different.", ">\n\nSounds good. And if actual malicious intent is found, prosecute anybody involved. \nY'know, malicious intent like refusing to return the documents, altering some by hand, letting some of them go missing, lying about how many they have, and not cooperating with the DOJ.", ">\n\nThis is a great opportunity to show what cooperating with an investigation looks like so we can make direct comparisons to the orange shitgibbon and his posse of clown lawyers." ]

[ "Do a complete investigation, gather the evidence, follow all procedures and the law, seek justice without fear or favor no matter who is involved. Figure this mess out.", ">\n\nFully agree - and I'd actually like the investigation to be concluded swiftly since the ones being investigated will likely be 100% cooperative. It's not like DoJ will have to be dealing with full on liars and criminals which takes forever to find the answers.", ">\n\nI 100% agree that there ought to be a reasonable investigation into this but I do have to wonder if any of this matters at all given that Biden is currently the president and therefore has not only the right to have classified information but also the ability to declassify that information.\nNot trying to make excuses for the oversight (or lack thereof) of classified documents, but it seems to me as though this requires an investigation into how classified documents are handled during and after individuals have been given such status and after said status has lapsed.\nLet's be perfectly honest, if they had taken different actions on the first set of documents, we likely wouldn't even know about this because there was nobody searching for them.\nHad Biden and his lawyers actually been seriously corrupt, they could easily have disposed of them in a fireplace or down a toilet and no one would know the better.\nThe fact that they brought this directly to the attention of the proper authorities is at least proof that they do have respect for the rule of law and are willing to except the consequences, even if it is going to be used to make political hay while the sun shines.\nThat said, this likely has huge implications for executive privilege, especially to the extent that the former president argued he had. I personally do not have a problem with the minister of th Office of the President being able to be held accountable for their actions but only if it is equally applied across the board and not just something that we will have to deal with when presidents from the Democratic party are being scrutinized.", ">\n\n\nhas not only the right to have classified information but also the ability to declassify that information.\n\nHe does. But apparently these docs were from his Vice Presidency under Obama. So, it's a bit uncertain.\nAnd it really undermines at least one of the central charges you could have lodged against Trump, that everyone that is able to access classified documents has a substantive responsibility to make sure they are handled appropriately. The \"oh, well, we had to leave in a hurry and things just got mixed up\" arguments Trump could have made before would have had little merit - especially when you consider previous historic cases where even a single doc mishandled ended up with someone in jail.\nBut now Trump will be able to dilute that charge completely. He's still fucked on obstruction and everything else (hopefully).", ">\n\nClassified != Compartmentalized, Top Secret, etc.", ">\n\nI agree with you, but I was recently informed that sources say some of these classified documents were classified Top Secret.\nIt does appear as though ABC is confirming that sources are saying that some of these were top secret documents.\n\nSources also told ABC News that the original batch of about 10 documents found in November contains classified vice-presidential briefing papers about foreign countries, some of which were marked top secret.\n\nAnd CNN is not even using the journalistic term source, going so far as to assert that some of these documents were top secret.\n\nSome of the classified documents were “top secret,” the highest level. They were found in three or four boxes that also contained unclassified papers that fall under the Presidential Records Act, CNN has reported.\n\nIf we are going to maintain Integrity about the treatment of top secret classified documents, it is important to hold both sides accountable for their retention of documents.\nThank goodness that Biden's lawyers were up front with the FBI and NARA rather than lying about the retention of documents and obstructing an investigation.\nI really hope that Biden doesn't try to use the executive privilege argument to keep himself from investigation, but this is likely going to be a permanent stain on his reputation and definitely opens up the presidential field in the Democratic Party for 2024.", ">\n\nWhy would this be a permanent stain on Biden’s reputation?", ">\n\nBecause it will 100% be used along with whataboutism to suggest that Biden was going after Trump for the same thing that he was caught doing, regardless of the fact that Biden was not responsible for the investigation into Trump's documents has not been outspoken about the retention of documents, subsequent Lies by his lawyers, and obstruction.\nI'm not saying that it is going to be fair, or even rational but it is going to cause a stain and that will be used to pillory him.", ">\n\nSo in essence, this is only going to be a stain in the minds of people who are rather brainless to begin with….gotcha", ">\n\nIts a stain because it's political ammunition for the other side, not because you or I see it for the opportunitistically timed political assault that it seems to be. In modern politics, being on the defensive is the same as losing. Hillary Clinton's email fiasco likely contributed to the 2016 election results even though she wasn't indicted for a crime.\nThe people on the other side of the political spectrum who would consider this whole fiasco a stain on Biden AREN'T brainless, they're heavily propogandized, and they DO vote. This whole thing will be used to justify any or all of Trump's conduct that should be immediately disqualifying. Expect this to be split-screened with all of Trump's legal woes.\nHopefully Trump won't make it to the 2024 Election season as a viable candidate. If Trump does make it, Trump will use this against Biden. If Trump loses out to someone like DeSantis, there will be a concerted effort to crucify Biden with it.", ">\n\nMy favorite part of this:\nNo raging tweets from the president making up executive powers. Accusing people of planting evidence and arguing about a deep state conspiracy against him.", ">\n\nI’d be hilarious if he copy pasted one of trumps tweets and ended it with JK I’m not a raving lunatic in a middle of a tantrum.", ">\n\nThat would be some great dark Brandon shit.", ">\n\nI am all for a special counsel being appointed. But a Trump appointee feels like an attempt by Garland to bend over backwards to show just how apolitical he is. If he wanted to reach across the aisle, he couldn’t find a Bush appointee rather than someone appointed by a man who literally tried to upend the Republic and is known for appointing partisan hacks?", ">\n\nThis is how Garland has been acting since appointed. It’s like he’s so terrified of being perceived as biased against repubs that he instead acts biased against dems. He has truly been a failure at AG.. even more of a letdown than Mueller", ">\n\nWell, Garland is a conservative….. people think that he must be left wing because Obama nominated him for SCOTUS. NOPE! - he’s right wing and Obama was throwing the GOP a bone. The GOP just hated Obama so fucking much they slapped down a nominee that aligned with them.", ">\n\nTrue, Biden should have appointed someone else", ">\n\nOnly took a year and a half to appoint one for Trump. Also what about that DOJ policy about not investigating and prosecuting a sitting president which protected the former guy for, what, six years now?", ">\n\nGarland is not our friend.", ">\n\nWho’s friend, exactly? What does friendship have to do with accountability to rules and laws?\nAre you suggesting the DOJ should be aligned and friendly with one particular party or another and so they don’t have to follow rules and laws we expect others to comply with?", ">\n\nGarland is not a friend to justice.\nWhy has Trump not been indicted yet? What's the confusion?", ">\n\n\nWhy has Trump not been indicted yet?\n\nwhy would you expect him to have been? the investigation isn't over yet", ">\n\nit explains why they weren't indicted in the article", ">\n\nSome anonymous lawyer being quoted by CNN is not a definitive explanation at all. It's hearsay and well-meaning bullshit. But when the DOJ was asked? \"A spokesperson for the Department of Justice declined to comment.\" But if you do believe that anonymous source, do you really think they have executive privilege, as your source says? How TF do \"advisors\" get privilege?", ">\n\nthey worked in the White House", ">\n\nBad enough that everyone bought that crap, \"The president is immune to criminal prosecution and subpoenas.\" But now we're going to extend it to anyone who worked in the White House?! Holy cow you can't possibly believe that's a good idea.", ">\n\nAs. We. Would. Expect. 🤷‍♂️ \nCan't wait until Biden whines, makes excuses, tries to get a special master, claims that they where declassifi...... Oh wait. Dems don't do any of that.", ">\n\nIt doesn’t even matter cause republicans don’t care about mishandling classified document- oh wait…now they do.", ">\n\nAs a Democrat I am pretty pissed off at Biden for this, but I would be willing to bet he didn't know the documents were there. \nThat said, I am a strong believer in people being punished for breaking the law, even if they are on my \"team.\"\nIf he broke the law, punish him. \nJust make sure that that miserable, racist orange thing that yells all the time gets his as well.\nThis is the only way to have nice things.", ">\n\nBiden isn't asking for a special grand master or looking for a favorable court... weird.", ">\n\nLove how it took 2 years to do this for trump, and he ain't even president, 2 days for Biden and he is president. \nTo be clear, I'm not saying there shouldn't be an investigation, I'm saying Garland is showing his true colors pretty strongly with the disparity.\nEdit: I'm muting this thread, not trying to get banned for cussing some fool out again. Have a good night y'all.", ">\n\nThe difference will always be that most democrats are just fine with an investigation. Because they care about good governance instead of personality cults.", ">\n\nYeah, it's like Goofus and Gallant. Except Goofus wins every other election and beats your head in with a bat.", ">\n\nWeird how Garland can move with lightning speed when it’s a cover-your-ass political move. Lightning speed.", ">\n\nFucking ridiculous the kid-gloves treatment that Trump gets.", ">\n\nI feel like Trump is about to get his shit kicked in here by Jack Smith in about a month or so when the indictments start coming", ">\n\nI feel like someone has said this every month for the last 6 years. The point is, Trump is untouchable. His angry mob would never succeed in overthrowing the government, but they would likely affect quarterly profits.", ">\n\nThis right here. Gotta keep the wolves fed or they might bite you. \nDomestic Terrorism discourages commerce. They’re fucking cowards.", ">\n\nHow's that Trump indictment coming?", ">\n\nThis is all I'm concerned about. Biden's situation I'm sure will work itself out, but Trump has most certainly committed crimes well beyond and before simply having classified documents. I'm not even saying Biden hasn't broken the law, and he should be dealt with accordingly, but Trump has been a national security hazard and criminal since long before classified documents were found and obstruction was clearly committed to shield them, and this Biden situation should, in no way, get in the way of that case, which seems long overdue.", ">\n\nWeird. I thought the DOJ didn’t want to investigate presidents.", ">\n\nWeird, I recall the DOJ investigating Trump while he was president. And Clinton.", ">\n\nI'm not confused about it. There's no policy against investigating presidents, which is why the numerous investigations into recent sitting presidents happened and were not against any policy. There is a policy against indicting them, though that's not legally binding in any way, just a stated approach that the Justice dept. has outlined in the past.", ">\n\nThe difference between Republicans and Dems is on display again. \nNo cults, no obstructing. Let the legal system do its thing.", ">\n\nSo... he can move fast??", ">\n\nThis proves that Garland is exquisitely sensitive to (Republican) public opinion, which proves to me that he will never indict Trump.", ">\n\nHe has stated many times that no person is above the law. This proves that he's practices what he preaches.", ">\n\nDoes it though? He holds D’s to the rule of law, but drags his feet with R’s.. all to try to seem impartial. He is not holding everyone to the same standard.", ">\n\nthis is a good move despite what wackos in this sub will say. the alternative would be jim jordan and the house intelligence committee running crazy conspiracy theories over this investigation. \nwith this special counsel it will at least be an actual legitimate investigation that will in all likelihood tamper the political effects for biden, as well as create a more legitimate nonpartisan line between this and the trump situation. it won't matter for republicans anyway, but the appearance of impropriety is good!\nobviously there's some hiccup in whatever processes for classified documents there are if they can be mixed in with other documents, put in places they aren't supposed to be, forgotten about, etc. and perhaps that can come to light as a result of both of these investigations and those processes can be revised to address these issues, whether intentionally mishandled or mishandled due to ignorance/an accident.", ">\n\n\nthe alternative would be jim jordan and the house intelligence committee running crazy conspiracy theories over this investigation. \n\ni don't think is an \"either or\" kind of situation. you'll still get jim's hot take of the day once they set up the committee.", ">\n\nsure but as far as document requests and the like it could make it more complicated for the house to go as apeshit as they would otherwise", ">\n\nNo it won't. Because they are not grounded in reality. Just watch.", ">\n\ni mean the law still exists lol", ">\n\nDoes it, though?", ">\n\nyes\ndo you think jim jordan can just walk over to DOJ and grab a bunch of documents and tell the DOJ to fuck off?", ">\n\nNo. But he can tell the House to fuck off when they subpoena him. And that subpoena is referred to the DOJ for enforcement, Merrick Garland can sit on it for weeks and then eventually decline to prosecute. Just like it happened with Meadows.", ">\n\nSure, sounds reasonable. Seems pretty likely somebody committed a crime. \nRemind me again why Garland took 20 extra months to take action when a Republican had documents like this?", ">\n\nMerrick Garland took two years to appoint a special counsel to Trump but he took 1 week to appoint a special counsel to Biden. Is he trying to please the Republican house or someone powerful is really trying hard that Biden don't run again. What an idiotic decision. He is giving fuel to republicans. Any normal person would understand that Biden administration is co-operating with the appropriate authority to resolve this matter. I am so disappointed at Merrick Garland.", ">\n\nSo the day after trump announced he was running he appointed a special counsel. The day after Biden (presumptive candidate) is being investigated, appoint a special counsel.... seems consistent.", ">\n\nI understand the frustration, however, what's the alternative choice? \nDemocrats should let immoral and unethical actions of their members? \nDoesn't it sound ridiculous to suggest being lawful and ethical is losing?\nWhat the democrats need to do is clean up their dependence on big donor moneys by making significant changes to the laws surrounding political campaigns. \nWhen Republican's don't vote for campaign reform, they should be examined carefully by journalists, then shamed for any corruption, and arrested for any crimes.", ">\n\nI like this comment; there is a core of truth and clearheaded observation within that would likely solve most things political, if we can just convince the first national politician to unlatch from the corporate money tit. Someone has to be the wind-dummy, the maverick, and it would certainly be someone with enough independent wealth to tell the corporations and lobbyists to kick rocks. Hell, if even the congressional leadership adopted this tactic, media pressure would steer the others. \nSounds very cool. Who’s first?", ">\n\nI don't know why everyone is making such a big deal about this. Obama declassified all of these documents on his last day in office. He didn't tell anyone, but since he thought it, they are declassified. You can't prove me wrong.", ">\n\nA complete outrage. It took Garland nearly TWO YEARS of begging Trump pretty please for his documents back AND a warrant before a Special Prosecutor could be assigned on Trump, but within two months, he’s out front and center appointing one on Biden? Fuck all Garland apologists.", ">\n\nBefore Trump announced his candidacy for 2024, Garland didn't need a special counsel. He could investigate him directly.", ">\n\n“Could”", ">\n\nwhy are you using quotes? he was and is currently being investigated lol", ">\n\nOh yeah two years and the Georgia election officials weren’t even subpoenaed until last north by Jack Smith. Tell me more of this mythical investigation you think Garland was doing.", ">\n\nso you think there was no investigation?", ">\n\nSure, as slow walked and as toothless as it could be", ">\n\nit's not finished lol", ">\n\nGArlANd NEedS MoRE TiME tO bUiLd A cASE", ">\n\nand what exactly are your qualifications for investigating and prosecuting someone in federal court for a potential violation of the espionage act/obstruction of justice?", ">\n\nTrump and Biden should both be investigated for illegally having classified documents, the more serious crimes are the lying and obstruction of justice. If you steal a cookie from the cookie jar that’s a “crime” but if you confess to you parents it’s not as bad as if you’re parents catch you and confront you and you lie and try to blame someone else or say they have no authority over cookies and tell them to f-off. Your parents won’t be happy about either situation but one is clearly exponentially worse.", ">\n\nI'm guessing that's the end for Biden re-election dreams. Thank God. Hopefully dems find someone willing to run in 24 that isn't kamala Harris.", ">\n\nI voted for Biden and I’m fine with this.", ">\n\nSame.", ">\n\nWonder if anyone will remember either of these cases in 2024", ">\n\nIt won't matter once the investigation concludes Biden didn't do anything criminal and everyone moves on to something else.\nWe were assured Afghanistan would put Republicans right back into power and that didn't happen. This will be no different.", ">\n\nSounds good. And if actual malicious intent is found, prosecute anybody involved. \nY'know, malicious intent like refusing to return the documents, altering some by hand, letting some of them go missing, lying about how many they have, and not cooperating with the DOJ.", ">\n\nThis is a great opportunity to show what cooperating with an investigation looks like so we can make direct comparisons to the orange shitgibbon and his posse of clown lawyers.", ">\n\nTo what end? You can't squeeze juice out of a rock, not even with a most special counsel. The GOP is not a party of reason. Just like HRC going before their Benghazi committee for 6 hours...did that stop them? Heck no!" ]

[ "Do a complete investigation, gather the evidence, follow all procedures and the law, seek justice without fear or favor no matter who is involved. Figure this mess out.", ">\n\nFully agree - and I'd actually like the investigation to be concluded swiftly since the ones being investigated will likely be 100% cooperative. It's not like DoJ will have to be dealing with full on liars and criminals which takes forever to find the answers.", ">\n\nI 100% agree that there ought to be a reasonable investigation into this but I do have to wonder if any of this matters at all given that Biden is currently the president and therefore has not only the right to have classified information but also the ability to declassify that information.\nNot trying to make excuses for the oversight (or lack thereof) of classified documents, but it seems to me as though this requires an investigation into how classified documents are handled during and after individuals have been given such status and after said status has lapsed.\nLet's be perfectly honest, if they had taken different actions on the first set of documents, we likely wouldn't even know about this because there was nobody searching for them.\nHad Biden and his lawyers actually been seriously corrupt, they could easily have disposed of them in a fireplace or down a toilet and no one would know the better.\nThe fact that they brought this directly to the attention of the proper authorities is at least proof that they do have respect for the rule of law and are willing to except the consequences, even if it is going to be used to make political hay while the sun shines.\nThat said, this likely has huge implications for executive privilege, especially to the extent that the former president argued he had. I personally do not have a problem with the minister of th Office of the President being able to be held accountable for their actions but only if it is equally applied across the board and not just something that we will have to deal with when presidents from the Democratic party are being scrutinized.", ">\n\n\nhas not only the right to have classified information but also the ability to declassify that information.\n\nHe does. But apparently these docs were from his Vice Presidency under Obama. So, it's a bit uncertain.\nAnd it really undermines at least one of the central charges you could have lodged against Trump, that everyone that is able to access classified documents has a substantive responsibility to make sure they are handled appropriately. The \"oh, well, we had to leave in a hurry and things just got mixed up\" arguments Trump could have made before would have had little merit - especially when you consider previous historic cases where even a single doc mishandled ended up with someone in jail.\nBut now Trump will be able to dilute that charge completely. He's still fucked on obstruction and everything else (hopefully).", ">\n\nClassified != Compartmentalized, Top Secret, etc.", ">\n\nI agree with you, but I was recently informed that sources say some of these classified documents were classified Top Secret.\nIt does appear as though ABC is confirming that sources are saying that some of these were top secret documents.\n\nSources also told ABC News that the original batch of about 10 documents found in November contains classified vice-presidential briefing papers about foreign countries, some of which were marked top secret.\n\nAnd CNN is not even using the journalistic term source, going so far as to assert that some of these documents were top secret.\n\nSome of the classified documents were “top secret,” the highest level. They were found in three or four boxes that also contained unclassified papers that fall under the Presidential Records Act, CNN has reported.\n\nIf we are going to maintain Integrity about the treatment of top secret classified documents, it is important to hold both sides accountable for their retention of documents.\nThank goodness that Biden's lawyers were up front with the FBI and NARA rather than lying about the retention of documents and obstructing an investigation.\nI really hope that Biden doesn't try to use the executive privilege argument to keep himself from investigation, but this is likely going to be a permanent stain on his reputation and definitely opens up the presidential field in the Democratic Party for 2024.", ">\n\nWhy would this be a permanent stain on Biden’s reputation?", ">\n\nBecause it will 100% be used along with whataboutism to suggest that Biden was going after Trump for the same thing that he was caught doing, regardless of the fact that Biden was not responsible for the investigation into Trump's documents has not been outspoken about the retention of documents, subsequent Lies by his lawyers, and obstruction.\nI'm not saying that it is going to be fair, or even rational but it is going to cause a stain and that will be used to pillory him.", ">\n\nSo in essence, this is only going to be a stain in the minds of people who are rather brainless to begin with….gotcha", ">\n\nIts a stain because it's political ammunition for the other side, not because you or I see it for the opportunitistically timed political assault that it seems to be. In modern politics, being on the defensive is the same as losing. Hillary Clinton's email fiasco likely contributed to the 2016 election results even though she wasn't indicted for a crime.\nThe people on the other side of the political spectrum who would consider this whole fiasco a stain on Biden AREN'T brainless, they're heavily propogandized, and they DO vote. This whole thing will be used to justify any or all of Trump's conduct that should be immediately disqualifying. Expect this to be split-screened with all of Trump's legal woes.\nHopefully Trump won't make it to the 2024 Election season as a viable candidate. If Trump does make it, Trump will use this against Biden. If Trump loses out to someone like DeSantis, there will be a concerted effort to crucify Biden with it.", ">\n\nMy favorite part of this:\nNo raging tweets from the president making up executive powers. Accusing people of planting evidence and arguing about a deep state conspiracy against him.", ">\n\nI’d be hilarious if he copy pasted one of trumps tweets and ended it with JK I’m not a raving lunatic in a middle of a tantrum.", ">\n\nThat would be some great dark Brandon shit.", ">\n\nI am all for a special counsel being appointed. But a Trump appointee feels like an attempt by Garland to bend over backwards to show just how apolitical he is. If he wanted to reach across the aisle, he couldn’t find a Bush appointee rather than someone appointed by a man who literally tried to upend the Republic and is known for appointing partisan hacks?", ">\n\nThis is how Garland has been acting since appointed. It’s like he’s so terrified of being perceived as biased against repubs that he instead acts biased against dems. He has truly been a failure at AG.. even more of a letdown than Mueller", ">\n\nWell, Garland is a conservative….. people think that he must be left wing because Obama nominated him for SCOTUS. NOPE! - he’s right wing and Obama was throwing the GOP a bone. The GOP just hated Obama so fucking much they slapped down a nominee that aligned with them.", ">\n\nTrue, Biden should have appointed someone else", ">\n\nOnly took a year and a half to appoint one for Trump. Also what about that DOJ policy about not investigating and prosecuting a sitting president which protected the former guy for, what, six years now?", ">\n\nGarland is not our friend.", ">\n\nWho’s friend, exactly? What does friendship have to do with accountability to rules and laws?\nAre you suggesting the DOJ should be aligned and friendly with one particular party or another and so they don’t have to follow rules and laws we expect others to comply with?", ">\n\nGarland is not a friend to justice.\nWhy has Trump not been indicted yet? What's the confusion?", ">\n\n\nWhy has Trump not been indicted yet?\n\nwhy would you expect him to have been? the investigation isn't over yet", ">\n\nit explains why they weren't indicted in the article", ">\n\nSome anonymous lawyer being quoted by CNN is not a definitive explanation at all. It's hearsay and well-meaning bullshit. But when the DOJ was asked? \"A spokesperson for the Department of Justice declined to comment.\" But if you do believe that anonymous source, do you really think they have executive privilege, as your source says? How TF do \"advisors\" get privilege?", ">\n\nthey worked in the White House", ">\n\nBad enough that everyone bought that crap, \"The president is immune to criminal prosecution and subpoenas.\" But now we're going to extend it to anyone who worked in the White House?! Holy cow you can't possibly believe that's a good idea.", ">\n\nAs. We. Would. Expect. 🤷‍♂️ \nCan't wait until Biden whines, makes excuses, tries to get a special master, claims that they where declassifi...... Oh wait. Dems don't do any of that.", ">\n\nIt doesn’t even matter cause republicans don’t care about mishandling classified document- oh wait…now they do.", ">\n\nAs a Democrat I am pretty pissed off at Biden for this, but I would be willing to bet he didn't know the documents were there. \nThat said, I am a strong believer in people being punished for breaking the law, even if they are on my \"team.\"\nIf he broke the law, punish him. \nJust make sure that that miserable, racist orange thing that yells all the time gets his as well.\nThis is the only way to have nice things.", ">\n\nBiden isn't asking for a special grand master or looking for a favorable court... weird.", ">\n\nLove how it took 2 years to do this for trump, and he ain't even president, 2 days for Biden and he is president. \nTo be clear, I'm not saying there shouldn't be an investigation, I'm saying Garland is showing his true colors pretty strongly with the disparity.\nEdit: I'm muting this thread, not trying to get banned for cussing some fool out again. Have a good night y'all.", ">\n\nThe difference will always be that most democrats are just fine with an investigation. Because they care about good governance instead of personality cults.", ">\n\nYeah, it's like Goofus and Gallant. Except Goofus wins every other election and beats your head in with a bat.", ">\n\nWeird how Garland can move with lightning speed when it’s a cover-your-ass political move. Lightning speed.", ">\n\nFucking ridiculous the kid-gloves treatment that Trump gets.", ">\n\nI feel like Trump is about to get his shit kicked in here by Jack Smith in about a month or so when the indictments start coming", ">\n\nI feel like someone has said this every month for the last 6 years. The point is, Trump is untouchable. His angry mob would never succeed in overthrowing the government, but they would likely affect quarterly profits.", ">\n\nThis right here. Gotta keep the wolves fed or they might bite you. \nDomestic Terrorism discourages commerce. They’re fucking cowards.", ">\n\nHow's that Trump indictment coming?", ">\n\nThis is all I'm concerned about. Biden's situation I'm sure will work itself out, but Trump has most certainly committed crimes well beyond and before simply having classified documents. I'm not even saying Biden hasn't broken the law, and he should be dealt with accordingly, but Trump has been a national security hazard and criminal since long before classified documents were found and obstruction was clearly committed to shield them, and this Biden situation should, in no way, get in the way of that case, which seems long overdue.", ">\n\nWeird. I thought the DOJ didn’t want to investigate presidents.", ">\n\nWeird, I recall the DOJ investigating Trump while he was president. And Clinton.", ">\n\nI'm not confused about it. There's no policy against investigating presidents, which is why the numerous investigations into recent sitting presidents happened and were not against any policy. There is a policy against indicting them, though that's not legally binding in any way, just a stated approach that the Justice dept. has outlined in the past.", ">\n\nThe difference between Republicans and Dems is on display again. \nNo cults, no obstructing. Let the legal system do its thing.", ">\n\nSo... he can move fast??", ">\n\nThis proves that Garland is exquisitely sensitive to (Republican) public opinion, which proves to me that he will never indict Trump.", ">\n\nHe has stated many times that no person is above the law. This proves that he's practices what he preaches.", ">\n\nDoes it though? He holds D’s to the rule of law, but drags his feet with R’s.. all to try to seem impartial. He is not holding everyone to the same standard.", ">\n\nthis is a good move despite what wackos in this sub will say. the alternative would be jim jordan and the house intelligence committee running crazy conspiracy theories over this investigation. \nwith this special counsel it will at least be an actual legitimate investigation that will in all likelihood tamper the political effects for biden, as well as create a more legitimate nonpartisan line between this and the trump situation. it won't matter for republicans anyway, but the appearance of impropriety is good!\nobviously there's some hiccup in whatever processes for classified documents there are if they can be mixed in with other documents, put in places they aren't supposed to be, forgotten about, etc. and perhaps that can come to light as a result of both of these investigations and those processes can be revised to address these issues, whether intentionally mishandled or mishandled due to ignorance/an accident.", ">\n\n\nthe alternative would be jim jordan and the house intelligence committee running crazy conspiracy theories over this investigation. \n\ni don't think is an \"either or\" kind of situation. you'll still get jim's hot take of the day once they set up the committee.", ">\n\nsure but as far as document requests and the like it could make it more complicated for the house to go as apeshit as they would otherwise", ">\n\nNo it won't. Because they are not grounded in reality. Just watch.", ">\n\ni mean the law still exists lol", ">\n\nDoes it, though?", ">\n\nyes\ndo you think jim jordan can just walk over to DOJ and grab a bunch of documents and tell the DOJ to fuck off?", ">\n\nNo. But he can tell the House to fuck off when they subpoena him. And that subpoena is referred to the DOJ for enforcement, Merrick Garland can sit on it for weeks and then eventually decline to prosecute. Just like it happened with Meadows.", ">\n\nSure, sounds reasonable. Seems pretty likely somebody committed a crime. \nRemind me again why Garland took 20 extra months to take action when a Republican had documents like this?", ">\n\nMerrick Garland took two years to appoint a special counsel to Trump but he took 1 week to appoint a special counsel to Biden. Is he trying to please the Republican house or someone powerful is really trying hard that Biden don't run again. What an idiotic decision. He is giving fuel to republicans. Any normal person would understand that Biden administration is co-operating with the appropriate authority to resolve this matter. I am so disappointed at Merrick Garland.", ">\n\nSo the day after trump announced he was running he appointed a special counsel. The day after Biden (presumptive candidate) is being investigated, appoint a special counsel.... seems consistent.", ">\n\nI understand the frustration, however, what's the alternative choice? \nDemocrats should let immoral and unethical actions of their members? \nDoesn't it sound ridiculous to suggest being lawful and ethical is losing?\nWhat the democrats need to do is clean up their dependence on big donor moneys by making significant changes to the laws surrounding political campaigns. \nWhen Republican's don't vote for campaign reform, they should be examined carefully by journalists, then shamed for any corruption, and arrested for any crimes.", ">\n\nI like this comment; there is a core of truth and clearheaded observation within that would likely solve most things political, if we can just convince the first national politician to unlatch from the corporate money tit. Someone has to be the wind-dummy, the maverick, and it would certainly be someone with enough independent wealth to tell the corporations and lobbyists to kick rocks. Hell, if even the congressional leadership adopted this tactic, media pressure would steer the others. \nSounds very cool. Who’s first?", ">\n\nI don't know why everyone is making such a big deal about this. Obama declassified all of these documents on his last day in office. He didn't tell anyone, but since he thought it, they are declassified. You can't prove me wrong.", ">\n\nA complete outrage. It took Garland nearly TWO YEARS of begging Trump pretty please for his documents back AND a warrant before a Special Prosecutor could be assigned on Trump, but within two months, he’s out front and center appointing one on Biden? Fuck all Garland apologists.", ">\n\nBefore Trump announced his candidacy for 2024, Garland didn't need a special counsel. He could investigate him directly.", ">\n\n“Could”", ">\n\nwhy are you using quotes? he was and is currently being investigated lol", ">\n\nOh yeah two years and the Georgia election officials weren’t even subpoenaed until last north by Jack Smith. Tell me more of this mythical investigation you think Garland was doing.", ">\n\nso you think there was no investigation?", ">\n\nSure, as slow walked and as toothless as it could be", ">\n\nit's not finished lol", ">\n\nGArlANd NEedS MoRE TiME tO bUiLd A cASE", ">\n\nand what exactly are your qualifications for investigating and prosecuting someone in federal court for a potential violation of the espionage act/obstruction of justice?", ">\n\nTrump and Biden should both be investigated for illegally having classified documents, the more serious crimes are the lying and obstruction of justice. If you steal a cookie from the cookie jar that’s a “crime” but if you confess to you parents it’s not as bad as if you’re parents catch you and confront you and you lie and try to blame someone else or say they have no authority over cookies and tell them to f-off. Your parents won’t be happy about either situation but one is clearly exponentially worse.", ">\n\nI'm guessing that's the end for Biden re-election dreams. Thank God. Hopefully dems find someone willing to run in 24 that isn't kamala Harris.", ">\n\nI voted for Biden and I’m fine with this.", ">\n\nSame.", ">\n\nWonder if anyone will remember either of these cases in 2024", ">\n\nIt won't matter once the investigation concludes Biden didn't do anything criminal and everyone moves on to something else.\nWe were assured Afghanistan would put Republicans right back into power and that didn't happen. This will be no different.", ">\n\nSounds good. And if actual malicious intent is found, prosecute anybody involved. \nY'know, malicious intent like refusing to return the documents, altering some by hand, letting some of them go missing, lying about how many they have, and not cooperating with the DOJ.", ">\n\nThis is a great opportunity to show what cooperating with an investigation looks like so we can make direct comparisons to the orange shitgibbon and his posse of clown lawyers.", ">\n\nTo what end? You can't squeeze juice out of a rock, not even with a most special counsel. The GOP is not a party of reason. Just like HRC going before their Benghazi committee for 6 hours...did that stop them? Heck no!", ">\n\nThe public has such a false and skewed notion of \"fair and non partisan\" that moves like this are largely pointless. If the evidence is convincing, it doesnt fucking matter how you launch a trial." ]

[ "Do a complete investigation, gather the evidence, follow all procedures and the law, seek justice without fear or favor no matter who is involved. Figure this mess out.", ">\n\nFully agree - and I'd actually like the investigation to be concluded swiftly since the ones being investigated will likely be 100% cooperative. It's not like DoJ will have to be dealing with full on liars and criminals which takes forever to find the answers.", ">\n\nI 100% agree that there ought to be a reasonable investigation into this but I do have to wonder if any of this matters at all given that Biden is currently the president and therefore has not only the right to have classified information but also the ability to declassify that information.\nNot trying to make excuses for the oversight (or lack thereof) of classified documents, but it seems to me as though this requires an investigation into how classified documents are handled during and after individuals have been given such status and after said status has lapsed.\nLet's be perfectly honest, if they had taken different actions on the first set of documents, we likely wouldn't even know about this because there was nobody searching for them.\nHad Biden and his lawyers actually been seriously corrupt, they could easily have disposed of them in a fireplace or down a toilet and no one would know the better.\nThe fact that they brought this directly to the attention of the proper authorities is at least proof that they do have respect for the rule of law and are willing to except the consequences, even if it is going to be used to make political hay while the sun shines.\nThat said, this likely has huge implications for executive privilege, especially to the extent that the former president argued he had. I personally do not have a problem with the minister of th Office of the President being able to be held accountable for their actions but only if it is equally applied across the board and not just something that we will have to deal with when presidents from the Democratic party are being scrutinized.", ">\n\n\nhas not only the right to have classified information but also the ability to declassify that information.\n\nHe does. But apparently these docs were from his Vice Presidency under Obama. So, it's a bit uncertain.\nAnd it really undermines at least one of the central charges you could have lodged against Trump, that everyone that is able to access classified documents has a substantive responsibility to make sure they are handled appropriately. The \"oh, well, we had to leave in a hurry and things just got mixed up\" arguments Trump could have made before would have had little merit - especially when you consider previous historic cases where even a single doc mishandled ended up with someone in jail.\nBut now Trump will be able to dilute that charge completely. He's still fucked on obstruction and everything else (hopefully).", ">\n\nClassified != Compartmentalized, Top Secret, etc.", ">\n\nI agree with you, but I was recently informed that sources say some of these classified documents were classified Top Secret.\nIt does appear as though ABC is confirming that sources are saying that some of these were top secret documents.\n\nSources also told ABC News that the original batch of about 10 documents found in November contains classified vice-presidential briefing papers about foreign countries, some of which were marked top secret.\n\nAnd CNN is not even using the journalistic term source, going so far as to assert that some of these documents were top secret.\n\nSome of the classified documents were “top secret,” the highest level. They were found in three or four boxes that also contained unclassified papers that fall under the Presidential Records Act, CNN has reported.\n\nIf we are going to maintain Integrity about the treatment of top secret classified documents, it is important to hold both sides accountable for their retention of documents.\nThank goodness that Biden's lawyers were up front with the FBI and NARA rather than lying about the retention of documents and obstructing an investigation.\nI really hope that Biden doesn't try to use the executive privilege argument to keep himself from investigation, but this is likely going to be a permanent stain on his reputation and definitely opens up the presidential field in the Democratic Party for 2024.", ">\n\nWhy would this be a permanent stain on Biden’s reputation?", ">\n\nBecause it will 100% be used along with whataboutism to suggest that Biden was going after Trump for the same thing that he was caught doing, regardless of the fact that Biden was not responsible for the investigation into Trump's documents has not been outspoken about the retention of documents, subsequent Lies by his lawyers, and obstruction.\nI'm not saying that it is going to be fair, or even rational but it is going to cause a stain and that will be used to pillory him.", ">\n\nSo in essence, this is only going to be a stain in the minds of people who are rather brainless to begin with….gotcha", ">\n\nIts a stain because it's political ammunition for the other side, not because you or I see it for the opportunitistically timed political assault that it seems to be. In modern politics, being on the defensive is the same as losing. Hillary Clinton's email fiasco likely contributed to the 2016 election results even though she wasn't indicted for a crime.\nThe people on the other side of the political spectrum who would consider this whole fiasco a stain on Biden AREN'T brainless, they're heavily propogandized, and they DO vote. This whole thing will be used to justify any or all of Trump's conduct that should be immediately disqualifying. Expect this to be split-screened with all of Trump's legal woes.\nHopefully Trump won't make it to the 2024 Election season as a viable candidate. If Trump does make it, Trump will use this against Biden. If Trump loses out to someone like DeSantis, there will be a concerted effort to crucify Biden with it.", ">\n\nMy favorite part of this:\nNo raging tweets from the president making up executive powers. Accusing people of planting evidence and arguing about a deep state conspiracy against him.", ">\n\nI’d be hilarious if he copy pasted one of trumps tweets and ended it with JK I’m not a raving lunatic in a middle of a tantrum.", ">\n\nThat would be some great dark Brandon shit.", ">\n\nI am all for a special counsel being appointed. But a Trump appointee feels like an attempt by Garland to bend over backwards to show just how apolitical he is. If he wanted to reach across the aisle, he couldn’t find a Bush appointee rather than someone appointed by a man who literally tried to upend the Republic and is known for appointing partisan hacks?", ">\n\nThis is how Garland has been acting since appointed. It’s like he’s so terrified of being perceived as biased against repubs that he instead acts biased against dems. He has truly been a failure at AG.. even more of a letdown than Mueller", ">\n\nWell, Garland is a conservative….. people think that he must be left wing because Obama nominated him for SCOTUS. NOPE! - he’s right wing and Obama was throwing the GOP a bone. The GOP just hated Obama so fucking much they slapped down a nominee that aligned with them.", ">\n\nTrue, Biden should have appointed someone else", ">\n\nOnly took a year and a half to appoint one for Trump. Also what about that DOJ policy about not investigating and prosecuting a sitting president which protected the former guy for, what, six years now?", ">\n\nGarland is not our friend.", ">\n\nWho’s friend, exactly? What does friendship have to do with accountability to rules and laws?\nAre you suggesting the DOJ should be aligned and friendly with one particular party or another and so they don’t have to follow rules and laws we expect others to comply with?", ">\n\nGarland is not a friend to justice.\nWhy has Trump not been indicted yet? What's the confusion?", ">\n\n\nWhy has Trump not been indicted yet?\n\nwhy would you expect him to have been? the investigation isn't over yet", ">\n\nit explains why they weren't indicted in the article", ">\n\nSome anonymous lawyer being quoted by CNN is not a definitive explanation at all. It's hearsay and well-meaning bullshit. But when the DOJ was asked? \"A spokesperson for the Department of Justice declined to comment.\" But if you do believe that anonymous source, do you really think they have executive privilege, as your source says? How TF do \"advisors\" get privilege?", ">\n\nthey worked in the White House", ">\n\nBad enough that everyone bought that crap, \"The president is immune to criminal prosecution and subpoenas.\" But now we're going to extend it to anyone who worked in the White House?! Holy cow you can't possibly believe that's a good idea.", ">\n\nAs. We. Would. Expect. 🤷‍♂️ \nCan't wait until Biden whines, makes excuses, tries to get a special master, claims that they where declassifi...... Oh wait. Dems don't do any of that.", ">\n\nIt doesn’t even matter cause republicans don’t care about mishandling classified document- oh wait…now they do.", ">\n\nAs a Democrat I am pretty pissed off at Biden for this, but I would be willing to bet he didn't know the documents were there. \nThat said, I am a strong believer in people being punished for breaking the law, even if they are on my \"team.\"\nIf he broke the law, punish him. \nJust make sure that that miserable, racist orange thing that yells all the time gets his as well.\nThis is the only way to have nice things.", ">\n\nBiden isn't asking for a special grand master or looking for a favorable court... weird.", ">\n\nLove how it took 2 years to do this for trump, and he ain't even president, 2 days for Biden and he is president. \nTo be clear, I'm not saying there shouldn't be an investigation, I'm saying Garland is showing his true colors pretty strongly with the disparity.\nEdit: I'm muting this thread, not trying to get banned for cussing some fool out again. Have a good night y'all.", ">\n\nThe difference will always be that most democrats are just fine with an investigation. Because they care about good governance instead of personality cults.", ">\n\nYeah, it's like Goofus and Gallant. Except Goofus wins every other election and beats your head in with a bat.", ">\n\nWeird how Garland can move with lightning speed when it’s a cover-your-ass political move. Lightning speed.", ">\n\nFucking ridiculous the kid-gloves treatment that Trump gets.", ">\n\nI feel like Trump is about to get his shit kicked in here by Jack Smith in about a month or so when the indictments start coming", ">\n\nI feel like someone has said this every month for the last 6 years. The point is, Trump is untouchable. His angry mob would never succeed in overthrowing the government, but they would likely affect quarterly profits.", ">\n\nThis right here. Gotta keep the wolves fed or they might bite you. \nDomestic Terrorism discourages commerce. They’re fucking cowards.", ">\n\nHow's that Trump indictment coming?", ">\n\nThis is all I'm concerned about. Biden's situation I'm sure will work itself out, but Trump has most certainly committed crimes well beyond and before simply having classified documents. I'm not even saying Biden hasn't broken the law, and he should be dealt with accordingly, but Trump has been a national security hazard and criminal since long before classified documents were found and obstruction was clearly committed to shield them, and this Biden situation should, in no way, get in the way of that case, which seems long overdue.", ">\n\nWeird. I thought the DOJ didn’t want to investigate presidents.", ">\n\nWeird, I recall the DOJ investigating Trump while he was president. And Clinton.", ">\n\nI'm not confused about it. There's no policy against investigating presidents, which is why the numerous investigations into recent sitting presidents happened and were not against any policy. There is a policy against indicting them, though that's not legally binding in any way, just a stated approach that the Justice dept. has outlined in the past.", ">\n\nThe difference between Republicans and Dems is on display again. \nNo cults, no obstructing. Let the legal system do its thing.", ">\n\nSo... he can move fast??", ">\n\nThis proves that Garland is exquisitely sensitive to (Republican) public opinion, which proves to me that he will never indict Trump.", ">\n\nHe has stated many times that no person is above the law. This proves that he's practices what he preaches.", ">\n\nDoes it though? He holds D’s to the rule of law, but drags his feet with R’s.. all to try to seem impartial. He is not holding everyone to the same standard.", ">\n\nthis is a good move despite what wackos in this sub will say. the alternative would be jim jordan and the house intelligence committee running crazy conspiracy theories over this investigation. \nwith this special counsel it will at least be an actual legitimate investigation that will in all likelihood tamper the political effects for biden, as well as create a more legitimate nonpartisan line between this and the trump situation. it won't matter for republicans anyway, but the appearance of impropriety is good!\nobviously there's some hiccup in whatever processes for classified documents there are if they can be mixed in with other documents, put in places they aren't supposed to be, forgotten about, etc. and perhaps that can come to light as a result of both of these investigations and those processes can be revised to address these issues, whether intentionally mishandled or mishandled due to ignorance/an accident.", ">\n\n\nthe alternative would be jim jordan and the house intelligence committee running crazy conspiracy theories over this investigation. \n\ni don't think is an \"either or\" kind of situation. you'll still get jim's hot take of the day once they set up the committee.", ">\n\nsure but as far as document requests and the like it could make it more complicated for the house to go as apeshit as they would otherwise", ">\n\nNo it won't. Because they are not grounded in reality. Just watch.", ">\n\ni mean the law still exists lol", ">\n\nDoes it, though?", ">\n\nyes\ndo you think jim jordan can just walk over to DOJ and grab a bunch of documents and tell the DOJ to fuck off?", ">\n\nNo. But he can tell the House to fuck off when they subpoena him. And that subpoena is referred to the DOJ for enforcement, Merrick Garland can sit on it for weeks and then eventually decline to prosecute. Just like it happened with Meadows.", ">\n\nSure, sounds reasonable. Seems pretty likely somebody committed a crime. \nRemind me again why Garland took 20 extra months to take action when a Republican had documents like this?", ">\n\nMerrick Garland took two years to appoint a special counsel to Trump but he took 1 week to appoint a special counsel to Biden. Is he trying to please the Republican house or someone powerful is really trying hard that Biden don't run again. What an idiotic decision. He is giving fuel to republicans. Any normal person would understand that Biden administration is co-operating with the appropriate authority to resolve this matter. I am so disappointed at Merrick Garland.", ">\n\nSo the day after trump announced he was running he appointed a special counsel. The day after Biden (presumptive candidate) is being investigated, appoint a special counsel.... seems consistent.", ">\n\nI understand the frustration, however, what's the alternative choice? \nDemocrats should let immoral and unethical actions of their members? \nDoesn't it sound ridiculous to suggest being lawful and ethical is losing?\nWhat the democrats need to do is clean up their dependence on big donor moneys by making significant changes to the laws surrounding political campaigns. \nWhen Republican's don't vote for campaign reform, they should be examined carefully by journalists, then shamed for any corruption, and arrested for any crimes.", ">\n\nI like this comment; there is a core of truth and clearheaded observation within that would likely solve most things political, if we can just convince the first national politician to unlatch from the corporate money tit. Someone has to be the wind-dummy, the maverick, and it would certainly be someone with enough independent wealth to tell the corporations and lobbyists to kick rocks. Hell, if even the congressional leadership adopted this tactic, media pressure would steer the others. \nSounds very cool. Who’s first?", ">\n\nI don't know why everyone is making such a big deal about this. Obama declassified all of these documents on his last day in office. He didn't tell anyone, but since he thought it, they are declassified. You can't prove me wrong.", ">\n\nA complete outrage. It took Garland nearly TWO YEARS of begging Trump pretty please for his documents back AND a warrant before a Special Prosecutor could be assigned on Trump, but within two months, he’s out front and center appointing one on Biden? Fuck all Garland apologists.", ">\n\nBefore Trump announced his candidacy for 2024, Garland didn't need a special counsel. He could investigate him directly.", ">\n\n“Could”", ">\n\nwhy are you using quotes? he was and is currently being investigated lol", ">\n\nOh yeah two years and the Georgia election officials weren’t even subpoenaed until last north by Jack Smith. Tell me more of this mythical investigation you think Garland was doing.", ">\n\nso you think there was no investigation?", ">\n\nSure, as slow walked and as toothless as it could be", ">\n\nit's not finished lol", ">\n\nGArlANd NEedS MoRE TiME tO bUiLd A cASE", ">\n\nand what exactly are your qualifications for investigating and prosecuting someone in federal court for a potential violation of the espionage act/obstruction of justice?", ">\n\nTrump and Biden should both be investigated for illegally having classified documents, the more serious crimes are the lying and obstruction of justice. If you steal a cookie from the cookie jar that’s a “crime” but if you confess to you parents it’s not as bad as if you’re parents catch you and confront you and you lie and try to blame someone else or say they have no authority over cookies and tell them to f-off. Your parents won’t be happy about either situation but one is clearly exponentially worse.", ">\n\nI'm guessing that's the end for Biden re-election dreams. Thank God. Hopefully dems find someone willing to run in 24 that isn't kamala Harris.", ">\n\nI voted for Biden and I’m fine with this.", ">\n\nSame.", ">\n\nWonder if anyone will remember either of these cases in 2024", ">\n\nIt won't matter once the investigation concludes Biden didn't do anything criminal and everyone moves on to something else.\nWe were assured Afghanistan would put Republicans right back into power and that didn't happen. This will be no different.", ">\n\nSounds good. And if actual malicious intent is found, prosecute anybody involved. \nY'know, malicious intent like refusing to return the documents, altering some by hand, letting some of them go missing, lying about how many they have, and not cooperating with the DOJ.", ">\n\nThis is a great opportunity to show what cooperating with an investigation looks like so we can make direct comparisons to the orange shitgibbon and his posse of clown lawyers.", ">\n\nTo what end? You can't squeeze juice out of a rock, not even with a most special counsel. The GOP is not a party of reason. Just like HRC going before their Benghazi committee for 6 hours...did that stop them? Heck no!", ">\n\nThe public has such a false and skewed notion of \"fair and non partisan\" that moves like this are largely pointless. If the evidence is convincing, it doesnt fucking matter how you launch a trial.", ">\n\nSo Trump took almost two years to investigate and Biden takes a couple days. Is Garland a Republican by any chance?" ]

[ "Do a complete investigation, gather the evidence, follow all procedures and the law, seek justice without fear or favor no matter who is involved. Figure this mess out.", ">\n\nFully agree - and I'd actually like the investigation to be concluded swiftly since the ones being investigated will likely be 100% cooperative. It's not like DoJ will have to be dealing with full on liars and criminals which takes forever to find the answers.", ">\n\nI 100% agree that there ought to be a reasonable investigation into this but I do have to wonder if any of this matters at all given that Biden is currently the president and therefore has not only the right to have classified information but also the ability to declassify that information.\nNot trying to make excuses for the oversight (or lack thereof) of classified documents, but it seems to me as though this requires an investigation into how classified documents are handled during and after individuals have been given such status and after said status has lapsed.\nLet's be perfectly honest, if they had taken different actions on the first set of documents, we likely wouldn't even know about this because there was nobody searching for them.\nHad Biden and his lawyers actually been seriously corrupt, they could easily have disposed of them in a fireplace or down a toilet and no one would know the better.\nThe fact that they brought this directly to the attention of the proper authorities is at least proof that they do have respect for the rule of law and are willing to except the consequences, even if it is going to be used to make political hay while the sun shines.\nThat said, this likely has huge implications for executive privilege, especially to the extent that the former president argued he had. I personally do not have a problem with the minister of th Office of the President being able to be held accountable for their actions but only if it is equally applied across the board and not just something that we will have to deal with when presidents from the Democratic party are being scrutinized.", ">\n\n\nhas not only the right to have classified information but also the ability to declassify that information.\n\nHe does. But apparently these docs were from his Vice Presidency under Obama. So, it's a bit uncertain.\nAnd it really undermines at least one of the central charges you could have lodged against Trump, that everyone that is able to access classified documents has a substantive responsibility to make sure they are handled appropriately. The \"oh, well, we had to leave in a hurry and things just got mixed up\" arguments Trump could have made before would have had little merit - especially when you consider previous historic cases where even a single doc mishandled ended up with someone in jail.\nBut now Trump will be able to dilute that charge completely. He's still fucked on obstruction and everything else (hopefully).", ">\n\nClassified != Compartmentalized, Top Secret, etc.", ">\n\nI agree with you, but I was recently informed that sources say some of these classified documents were classified Top Secret.\nIt does appear as though ABC is confirming that sources are saying that some of these were top secret documents.\n\nSources also told ABC News that the original batch of about 10 documents found in November contains classified vice-presidential briefing papers about foreign countries, some of which were marked top secret.\n\nAnd CNN is not even using the journalistic term source, going so far as to assert that some of these documents were top secret.\n\nSome of the classified documents were “top secret,” the highest level. They were found in three or four boxes that also contained unclassified papers that fall under the Presidential Records Act, CNN has reported.\n\nIf we are going to maintain Integrity about the treatment of top secret classified documents, it is important to hold both sides accountable for their retention of documents.\nThank goodness that Biden's lawyers were up front with the FBI and NARA rather than lying about the retention of documents and obstructing an investigation.\nI really hope that Biden doesn't try to use the executive privilege argument to keep himself from investigation, but this is likely going to be a permanent stain on his reputation and definitely opens up the presidential field in the Democratic Party for 2024.", ">\n\nWhy would this be a permanent stain on Biden’s reputation?", ">\n\nBecause it will 100% be used along with whataboutism to suggest that Biden was going after Trump for the same thing that he was caught doing, regardless of the fact that Biden was not responsible for the investigation into Trump's documents has not been outspoken about the retention of documents, subsequent Lies by his lawyers, and obstruction.\nI'm not saying that it is going to be fair, or even rational but it is going to cause a stain and that will be used to pillory him.", ">\n\nSo in essence, this is only going to be a stain in the minds of people who are rather brainless to begin with….gotcha", ">\n\nIts a stain because it's political ammunition for the other side, not because you or I see it for the opportunitistically timed political assault that it seems to be. In modern politics, being on the defensive is the same as losing. Hillary Clinton's email fiasco likely contributed to the 2016 election results even though she wasn't indicted for a crime.\nThe people on the other side of the political spectrum who would consider this whole fiasco a stain on Biden AREN'T brainless, they're heavily propogandized, and they DO vote. This whole thing will be used to justify any or all of Trump's conduct that should be immediately disqualifying. Expect this to be split-screened with all of Trump's legal woes.\nHopefully Trump won't make it to the 2024 Election season as a viable candidate. If Trump does make it, Trump will use this against Biden. If Trump loses out to someone like DeSantis, there will be a concerted effort to crucify Biden with it.", ">\n\nMy favorite part of this:\nNo raging tweets from the president making up executive powers. Accusing people of planting evidence and arguing about a deep state conspiracy against him.", ">\n\nI’d be hilarious if he copy pasted one of trumps tweets and ended it with JK I’m not a raving lunatic in a middle of a tantrum.", ">\n\nThat would be some great dark Brandon shit.", ">\n\nI am all for a special counsel being appointed. But a Trump appointee feels like an attempt by Garland to bend over backwards to show just how apolitical he is. If he wanted to reach across the aisle, he couldn’t find a Bush appointee rather than someone appointed by a man who literally tried to upend the Republic and is known for appointing partisan hacks?", ">\n\nThis is how Garland has been acting since appointed. It’s like he’s so terrified of being perceived as biased against repubs that he instead acts biased against dems. He has truly been a failure at AG.. even more of a letdown than Mueller", ">\n\nWell, Garland is a conservative….. people think that he must be left wing because Obama nominated him for SCOTUS. NOPE! - he’s right wing and Obama was throwing the GOP a bone. The GOP just hated Obama so fucking much they slapped down a nominee that aligned with them.", ">\n\nTrue, Biden should have appointed someone else", ">\n\nOnly took a year and a half to appoint one for Trump. Also what about that DOJ policy about not investigating and prosecuting a sitting president which protected the former guy for, what, six years now?", ">\n\nGarland is not our friend.", ">\n\nWho’s friend, exactly? What does friendship have to do with accountability to rules and laws?\nAre you suggesting the DOJ should be aligned and friendly with one particular party or another and so they don’t have to follow rules and laws we expect others to comply with?", ">\n\nGarland is not a friend to justice.\nWhy has Trump not been indicted yet? What's the confusion?", ">\n\n\nWhy has Trump not been indicted yet?\n\nwhy would you expect him to have been? the investigation isn't over yet", ">\n\nit explains why they weren't indicted in the article", ">\n\nSome anonymous lawyer being quoted by CNN is not a definitive explanation at all. It's hearsay and well-meaning bullshit. But when the DOJ was asked? \"A spokesperson for the Department of Justice declined to comment.\" But if you do believe that anonymous source, do you really think they have executive privilege, as your source says? How TF do \"advisors\" get privilege?", ">\n\nthey worked in the White House", ">\n\nBad enough that everyone bought that crap, \"The president is immune to criminal prosecution and subpoenas.\" But now we're going to extend it to anyone who worked in the White House?! Holy cow you can't possibly believe that's a good idea.", ">\n\nAs. We. Would. Expect. 🤷‍♂️ \nCan't wait until Biden whines, makes excuses, tries to get a special master, claims that they where declassifi...... Oh wait. Dems don't do any of that.", ">\n\nIt doesn’t even matter cause republicans don’t care about mishandling classified document- oh wait…now they do.", ">\n\nAs a Democrat I am pretty pissed off at Biden for this, but I would be willing to bet he didn't know the documents were there. \nThat said, I am a strong believer in people being punished for breaking the law, even if they are on my \"team.\"\nIf he broke the law, punish him. \nJust make sure that that miserable, racist orange thing that yells all the time gets his as well.\nThis is the only way to have nice things.", ">\n\nBiden isn't asking for a special grand master or looking for a favorable court... weird.", ">\n\nLove how it took 2 years to do this for trump, and he ain't even president, 2 days for Biden and he is president. \nTo be clear, I'm not saying there shouldn't be an investigation, I'm saying Garland is showing his true colors pretty strongly with the disparity.\nEdit: I'm muting this thread, not trying to get banned for cussing some fool out again. Have a good night y'all.", ">\n\nThe difference will always be that most democrats are just fine with an investigation. Because they care about good governance instead of personality cults.", ">\n\nYeah, it's like Goofus and Gallant. Except Goofus wins every other election and beats your head in with a bat.", ">\n\nWeird how Garland can move with lightning speed when it’s a cover-your-ass political move. Lightning speed.", ">\n\nFucking ridiculous the kid-gloves treatment that Trump gets.", ">\n\nI feel like Trump is about to get his shit kicked in here by Jack Smith in about a month or so when the indictments start coming", ">\n\nI feel like someone has said this every month for the last 6 years. The point is, Trump is untouchable. His angry mob would never succeed in overthrowing the government, but they would likely affect quarterly profits.", ">\n\nThis right here. Gotta keep the wolves fed or they might bite you. \nDomestic Terrorism discourages commerce. They’re fucking cowards.", ">\n\nHow's that Trump indictment coming?", ">\n\nThis is all I'm concerned about. Biden's situation I'm sure will work itself out, but Trump has most certainly committed crimes well beyond and before simply having classified documents. I'm not even saying Biden hasn't broken the law, and he should be dealt with accordingly, but Trump has been a national security hazard and criminal since long before classified documents were found and obstruction was clearly committed to shield them, and this Biden situation should, in no way, get in the way of that case, which seems long overdue.", ">\n\nWeird. I thought the DOJ didn’t want to investigate presidents.", ">\n\nWeird, I recall the DOJ investigating Trump while he was president. And Clinton.", ">\n\nI'm not confused about it. There's no policy against investigating presidents, which is why the numerous investigations into recent sitting presidents happened and were not against any policy. There is a policy against indicting them, though that's not legally binding in any way, just a stated approach that the Justice dept. has outlined in the past.", ">\n\nThe difference between Republicans and Dems is on display again. \nNo cults, no obstructing. Let the legal system do its thing.", ">\n\nSo... he can move fast??", ">\n\nThis proves that Garland is exquisitely sensitive to (Republican) public opinion, which proves to me that he will never indict Trump.", ">\n\nHe has stated many times that no person is above the law. This proves that he's practices what he preaches.", ">\n\nDoes it though? He holds D’s to the rule of law, but drags his feet with R’s.. all to try to seem impartial. He is not holding everyone to the same standard.", ">\n\nthis is a good move despite what wackos in this sub will say. the alternative would be jim jordan and the house intelligence committee running crazy conspiracy theories over this investigation. \nwith this special counsel it will at least be an actual legitimate investigation that will in all likelihood tamper the political effects for biden, as well as create a more legitimate nonpartisan line between this and the trump situation. it won't matter for republicans anyway, but the appearance of impropriety is good!\nobviously there's some hiccup in whatever processes for classified documents there are if they can be mixed in with other documents, put in places they aren't supposed to be, forgotten about, etc. and perhaps that can come to light as a result of both of these investigations and those processes can be revised to address these issues, whether intentionally mishandled or mishandled due to ignorance/an accident.", ">\n\n\nthe alternative would be jim jordan and the house intelligence committee running crazy conspiracy theories over this investigation. \n\ni don't think is an \"either or\" kind of situation. you'll still get jim's hot take of the day once they set up the committee.", ">\n\nsure but as far as document requests and the like it could make it more complicated for the house to go as apeshit as they would otherwise", ">\n\nNo it won't. Because they are not grounded in reality. Just watch.", ">\n\ni mean the law still exists lol", ">\n\nDoes it, though?", ">\n\nyes\ndo you think jim jordan can just walk over to DOJ and grab a bunch of documents and tell the DOJ to fuck off?", ">\n\nNo. But he can tell the House to fuck off when they subpoena him. And that subpoena is referred to the DOJ for enforcement, Merrick Garland can sit on it for weeks and then eventually decline to prosecute. Just like it happened with Meadows.", ">\n\nSure, sounds reasonable. Seems pretty likely somebody committed a crime. \nRemind me again why Garland took 20 extra months to take action when a Republican had documents like this?", ">\n\nMerrick Garland took two years to appoint a special counsel to Trump but he took 1 week to appoint a special counsel to Biden. Is he trying to please the Republican house or someone powerful is really trying hard that Biden don't run again. What an idiotic decision. He is giving fuel to republicans. Any normal person would understand that Biden administration is co-operating with the appropriate authority to resolve this matter. I am so disappointed at Merrick Garland.", ">\n\nSo the day after trump announced he was running he appointed a special counsel. The day after Biden (presumptive candidate) is being investigated, appoint a special counsel.... seems consistent.", ">\n\nI understand the frustration, however, what's the alternative choice? \nDemocrats should let immoral and unethical actions of their members? \nDoesn't it sound ridiculous to suggest being lawful and ethical is losing?\nWhat the democrats need to do is clean up their dependence on big donor moneys by making significant changes to the laws surrounding political campaigns. \nWhen Republican's don't vote for campaign reform, they should be examined carefully by journalists, then shamed for any corruption, and arrested for any crimes.", ">\n\nI like this comment; there is a core of truth and clearheaded observation within that would likely solve most things political, if we can just convince the first national politician to unlatch from the corporate money tit. Someone has to be the wind-dummy, the maverick, and it would certainly be someone with enough independent wealth to tell the corporations and lobbyists to kick rocks. Hell, if even the congressional leadership adopted this tactic, media pressure would steer the others. \nSounds very cool. Who’s first?", ">\n\nI don't know why everyone is making such a big deal about this. Obama declassified all of these documents on his last day in office. He didn't tell anyone, but since he thought it, they are declassified. You can't prove me wrong.", ">\n\nA complete outrage. It took Garland nearly TWO YEARS of begging Trump pretty please for his documents back AND a warrant before a Special Prosecutor could be assigned on Trump, but within two months, he’s out front and center appointing one on Biden? Fuck all Garland apologists.", ">\n\nBefore Trump announced his candidacy for 2024, Garland didn't need a special counsel. He could investigate him directly.", ">\n\n“Could”", ">\n\nwhy are you using quotes? he was and is currently being investigated lol", ">\n\nOh yeah two years and the Georgia election officials weren’t even subpoenaed until last north by Jack Smith. Tell me more of this mythical investigation you think Garland was doing.", ">\n\nso you think there was no investigation?", ">\n\nSure, as slow walked and as toothless as it could be", ">\n\nit's not finished lol", ">\n\nGArlANd NEedS MoRE TiME tO bUiLd A cASE", ">\n\nand what exactly are your qualifications for investigating and prosecuting someone in federal court for a potential violation of the espionage act/obstruction of justice?", ">\n\nTrump and Biden should both be investigated for illegally having classified documents, the more serious crimes are the lying and obstruction of justice. If you steal a cookie from the cookie jar that’s a “crime” but if you confess to you parents it’s not as bad as if you’re parents catch you and confront you and you lie and try to blame someone else or say they have no authority over cookies and tell them to f-off. Your parents won’t be happy about either situation but one is clearly exponentially worse.", ">\n\nI'm guessing that's the end for Biden re-election dreams. Thank God. Hopefully dems find someone willing to run in 24 that isn't kamala Harris.", ">\n\nI voted for Biden and I’m fine with this.", ">\n\nSame.", ">\n\nWonder if anyone will remember either of these cases in 2024", ">\n\nIt won't matter once the investigation concludes Biden didn't do anything criminal and everyone moves on to something else.\nWe were assured Afghanistan would put Republicans right back into power and that didn't happen. This will be no different.", ">\n\nSounds good. And if actual malicious intent is found, prosecute anybody involved. \nY'know, malicious intent like refusing to return the documents, altering some by hand, letting some of them go missing, lying about how many they have, and not cooperating with the DOJ.", ">\n\nThis is a great opportunity to show what cooperating with an investigation looks like so we can make direct comparisons to the orange shitgibbon and his posse of clown lawyers.", ">\n\nTo what end? You can't squeeze juice out of a rock, not even with a most special counsel. The GOP is not a party of reason. Just like HRC going before their Benghazi committee for 6 hours...did that stop them? Heck no!", ">\n\nThe public has such a false and skewed notion of \"fair and non partisan\" that moves like this are largely pointless. If the evidence is convincing, it doesnt fucking matter how you launch a trial.", ">\n\nSo Trump took almost two years to investigate and Biden takes a couple days. Is Garland a Republican by any chance?", ">\n\nJFC - I came here to say this." ]

[ "Do a complete investigation, gather the evidence, follow all procedures and the law, seek justice without fear or favor no matter who is involved. Figure this mess out.", ">\n\nFully agree - and I'd actually like the investigation to be concluded swiftly since the ones being investigated will likely be 100% cooperative. It's not like DoJ will have to be dealing with full on liars and criminals which takes forever to find the answers.", ">\n\nI 100% agree that there ought to be a reasonable investigation into this but I do have to wonder if any of this matters at all given that Biden is currently the president and therefore has not only the right to have classified information but also the ability to declassify that information.\nNot trying to make excuses for the oversight (or lack thereof) of classified documents, but it seems to me as though this requires an investigation into how classified documents are handled during and after individuals have been given such status and after said status has lapsed.\nLet's be perfectly honest, if they had taken different actions on the first set of documents, we likely wouldn't even know about this because there was nobody searching for them.\nHad Biden and his lawyers actually been seriously corrupt, they could easily have disposed of them in a fireplace or down a toilet and no one would know the better.\nThe fact that they brought this directly to the attention of the proper authorities is at least proof that they do have respect for the rule of law and are willing to except the consequences, even if it is going to be used to make political hay while the sun shines.\nThat said, this likely has huge implications for executive privilege, especially to the extent that the former president argued he had. I personally do not have a problem with the minister of th Office of the President being able to be held accountable for their actions but only if it is equally applied across the board and not just something that we will have to deal with when presidents from the Democratic party are being scrutinized.", ">\n\n\nhas not only the right to have classified information but also the ability to declassify that information.\n\nHe does. But apparently these docs were from his Vice Presidency under Obama. So, it's a bit uncertain.\nAnd it really undermines at least one of the central charges you could have lodged against Trump, that everyone that is able to access classified documents has a substantive responsibility to make sure they are handled appropriately. The \"oh, well, we had to leave in a hurry and things just got mixed up\" arguments Trump could have made before would have had little merit - especially when you consider previous historic cases where even a single doc mishandled ended up with someone in jail.\nBut now Trump will be able to dilute that charge completely. He's still fucked on obstruction and everything else (hopefully).", ">\n\nClassified != Compartmentalized, Top Secret, etc.", ">\n\nI agree with you, but I was recently informed that sources say some of these classified documents were classified Top Secret.\nIt does appear as though ABC is confirming that sources are saying that some of these were top secret documents.\n\nSources also told ABC News that the original batch of about 10 documents found in November contains classified vice-presidential briefing papers about foreign countries, some of which were marked top secret.\n\nAnd CNN is not even using the journalistic term source, going so far as to assert that some of these documents were top secret.\n\nSome of the classified documents were “top secret,” the highest level. They were found in three or four boxes that also contained unclassified papers that fall under the Presidential Records Act, CNN has reported.\n\nIf we are going to maintain Integrity about the treatment of top secret classified documents, it is important to hold both sides accountable for their retention of documents.\nThank goodness that Biden's lawyers were up front with the FBI and NARA rather than lying about the retention of documents and obstructing an investigation.\nI really hope that Biden doesn't try to use the executive privilege argument to keep himself from investigation, but this is likely going to be a permanent stain on his reputation and definitely opens up the presidential field in the Democratic Party for 2024.", ">\n\nWhy would this be a permanent stain on Biden’s reputation?", ">\n\nBecause it will 100% be used along with whataboutism to suggest that Biden was going after Trump for the same thing that he was caught doing, regardless of the fact that Biden was not responsible for the investigation into Trump's documents has not been outspoken about the retention of documents, subsequent Lies by his lawyers, and obstruction.\nI'm not saying that it is going to be fair, or even rational but it is going to cause a stain and that will be used to pillory him.", ">\n\nSo in essence, this is only going to be a stain in the minds of people who are rather brainless to begin with….gotcha", ">\n\nIts a stain because it's political ammunition for the other side, not because you or I see it for the opportunitistically timed political assault that it seems to be. In modern politics, being on the defensive is the same as losing. Hillary Clinton's email fiasco likely contributed to the 2016 election results even though she wasn't indicted for a crime.\nThe people on the other side of the political spectrum who would consider this whole fiasco a stain on Biden AREN'T brainless, they're heavily propogandized, and they DO vote. This whole thing will be used to justify any or all of Trump's conduct that should be immediately disqualifying. Expect this to be split-screened with all of Trump's legal woes.\nHopefully Trump won't make it to the 2024 Election season as a viable candidate. If Trump does make it, Trump will use this against Biden. If Trump loses out to someone like DeSantis, there will be a concerted effort to crucify Biden with it.", ">\n\nMy favorite part of this:\nNo raging tweets from the president making up executive powers. Accusing people of planting evidence and arguing about a deep state conspiracy against him.", ">\n\nI’d be hilarious if he copy pasted one of trumps tweets and ended it with JK I’m not a raving lunatic in a middle of a tantrum.", ">\n\nThat would be some great dark Brandon shit.", ">\n\nI am all for a special counsel being appointed. But a Trump appointee feels like an attempt by Garland to bend over backwards to show just how apolitical he is. If he wanted to reach across the aisle, he couldn’t find a Bush appointee rather than someone appointed by a man who literally tried to upend the Republic and is known for appointing partisan hacks?", ">\n\nThis is how Garland has been acting since appointed. It’s like he’s so terrified of being perceived as biased against repubs that he instead acts biased against dems. He has truly been a failure at AG.. even more of a letdown than Mueller", ">\n\nWell, Garland is a conservative….. people think that he must be left wing because Obama nominated him for SCOTUS. NOPE! - he’s right wing and Obama was throwing the GOP a bone. The GOP just hated Obama so fucking much they slapped down a nominee that aligned with them.", ">\n\nTrue, Biden should have appointed someone else", ">\n\nOnly took a year and a half to appoint one for Trump. Also what about that DOJ policy about not investigating and prosecuting a sitting president which protected the former guy for, what, six years now?", ">\n\nGarland is not our friend.", ">\n\nWho’s friend, exactly? What does friendship have to do with accountability to rules and laws?\nAre you suggesting the DOJ should be aligned and friendly with one particular party or another and so they don’t have to follow rules and laws we expect others to comply with?", ">\n\nGarland is not a friend to justice.\nWhy has Trump not been indicted yet? What's the confusion?", ">\n\n\nWhy has Trump not been indicted yet?\n\nwhy would you expect him to have been? the investigation isn't over yet", ">\n\nit explains why they weren't indicted in the article", ">\n\nSome anonymous lawyer being quoted by CNN is not a definitive explanation at all. It's hearsay and well-meaning bullshit. But when the DOJ was asked? \"A spokesperson for the Department of Justice declined to comment.\" But if you do believe that anonymous source, do you really think they have executive privilege, as your source says? How TF do \"advisors\" get privilege?", ">\n\nthey worked in the White House", ">\n\nBad enough that everyone bought that crap, \"The president is immune to criminal prosecution and subpoenas.\" But now we're going to extend it to anyone who worked in the White House?! Holy cow you can't possibly believe that's a good idea.", ">\n\nAs. We. Would. Expect. 🤷‍♂️ \nCan't wait until Biden whines, makes excuses, tries to get a special master, claims that they where declassifi...... Oh wait. Dems don't do any of that.", ">\n\nIt doesn’t even matter cause republicans don’t care about mishandling classified document- oh wait…now they do.", ">\n\nAs a Democrat I am pretty pissed off at Biden for this, but I would be willing to bet he didn't know the documents were there. \nThat said, I am a strong believer in people being punished for breaking the law, even if they are on my \"team.\"\nIf he broke the law, punish him. \nJust make sure that that miserable, racist orange thing that yells all the time gets his as well.\nThis is the only way to have nice things.", ">\n\nBiden isn't asking for a special grand master or looking for a favorable court... weird.", ">\n\nLove how it took 2 years to do this for trump, and he ain't even president, 2 days for Biden and he is president. \nTo be clear, I'm not saying there shouldn't be an investigation, I'm saying Garland is showing his true colors pretty strongly with the disparity.\nEdit: I'm muting this thread, not trying to get banned for cussing some fool out again. Have a good night y'all.", ">\n\nThe difference will always be that most democrats are just fine with an investigation. Because they care about good governance instead of personality cults.", ">\n\nYeah, it's like Goofus and Gallant. Except Goofus wins every other election and beats your head in with a bat.", ">\n\nWeird how Garland can move with lightning speed when it’s a cover-your-ass political move. Lightning speed.", ">\n\nFucking ridiculous the kid-gloves treatment that Trump gets.", ">\n\nI feel like Trump is about to get his shit kicked in here by Jack Smith in about a month or so when the indictments start coming", ">\n\nI feel like someone has said this every month for the last 6 years. The point is, Trump is untouchable. His angry mob would never succeed in overthrowing the government, but they would likely affect quarterly profits.", ">\n\nThis right here. Gotta keep the wolves fed or they might bite you. \nDomestic Terrorism discourages commerce. They’re fucking cowards.", ">\n\nHow's that Trump indictment coming?", ">\n\nThis is all I'm concerned about. Biden's situation I'm sure will work itself out, but Trump has most certainly committed crimes well beyond and before simply having classified documents. I'm not even saying Biden hasn't broken the law, and he should be dealt with accordingly, but Trump has been a national security hazard and criminal since long before classified documents were found and obstruction was clearly committed to shield them, and this Biden situation should, in no way, get in the way of that case, which seems long overdue.", ">\n\nWeird. I thought the DOJ didn’t want to investigate presidents.", ">\n\nWeird, I recall the DOJ investigating Trump while he was president. And Clinton.", ">\n\nI'm not confused about it. There's no policy against investigating presidents, which is why the numerous investigations into recent sitting presidents happened and were not against any policy. There is a policy against indicting them, though that's not legally binding in any way, just a stated approach that the Justice dept. has outlined in the past.", ">\n\nThe difference between Republicans and Dems is on display again. \nNo cults, no obstructing. Let the legal system do its thing.", ">\n\nSo... he can move fast??", ">\n\nThis proves that Garland is exquisitely sensitive to (Republican) public opinion, which proves to me that he will never indict Trump.", ">\n\nHe has stated many times that no person is above the law. This proves that he's practices what he preaches.", ">\n\nDoes it though? He holds D’s to the rule of law, but drags his feet with R’s.. all to try to seem impartial. He is not holding everyone to the same standard.", ">\n\nthis is a good move despite what wackos in this sub will say. the alternative would be jim jordan and the house intelligence committee running crazy conspiracy theories over this investigation. \nwith this special counsel it will at least be an actual legitimate investigation that will in all likelihood tamper the political effects for biden, as well as create a more legitimate nonpartisan line between this and the trump situation. it won't matter for republicans anyway, but the appearance of impropriety is good!\nobviously there's some hiccup in whatever processes for classified documents there are if they can be mixed in with other documents, put in places they aren't supposed to be, forgotten about, etc. and perhaps that can come to light as a result of both of these investigations and those processes can be revised to address these issues, whether intentionally mishandled or mishandled due to ignorance/an accident.", ">\n\n\nthe alternative would be jim jordan and the house intelligence committee running crazy conspiracy theories over this investigation. \n\ni don't think is an \"either or\" kind of situation. you'll still get jim's hot take of the day once they set up the committee.", ">\n\nsure but as far as document requests and the like it could make it more complicated for the house to go as apeshit as they would otherwise", ">\n\nNo it won't. Because they are not grounded in reality. Just watch.", ">\n\ni mean the law still exists lol", ">\n\nDoes it, though?", ">\n\nyes\ndo you think jim jordan can just walk over to DOJ and grab a bunch of documents and tell the DOJ to fuck off?", ">\n\nNo. But he can tell the House to fuck off when they subpoena him. And that subpoena is referred to the DOJ for enforcement, Merrick Garland can sit on it for weeks and then eventually decline to prosecute. Just like it happened with Meadows.", ">\n\nSure, sounds reasonable. Seems pretty likely somebody committed a crime. \nRemind me again why Garland took 20 extra months to take action when a Republican had documents like this?", ">\n\nMerrick Garland took two years to appoint a special counsel to Trump but he took 1 week to appoint a special counsel to Biden. Is he trying to please the Republican house or someone powerful is really trying hard that Biden don't run again. What an idiotic decision. He is giving fuel to republicans. Any normal person would understand that Biden administration is co-operating with the appropriate authority to resolve this matter. I am so disappointed at Merrick Garland.", ">\n\nSo the day after trump announced he was running he appointed a special counsel. The day after Biden (presumptive candidate) is being investigated, appoint a special counsel.... seems consistent.", ">\n\nI understand the frustration, however, what's the alternative choice? \nDemocrats should let immoral and unethical actions of their members? \nDoesn't it sound ridiculous to suggest being lawful and ethical is losing?\nWhat the democrats need to do is clean up their dependence on big donor moneys by making significant changes to the laws surrounding political campaigns. \nWhen Republican's don't vote for campaign reform, they should be examined carefully by journalists, then shamed for any corruption, and arrested for any crimes.", ">\n\nI like this comment; there is a core of truth and clearheaded observation within that would likely solve most things political, if we can just convince the first national politician to unlatch from the corporate money tit. Someone has to be the wind-dummy, the maverick, and it would certainly be someone with enough independent wealth to tell the corporations and lobbyists to kick rocks. Hell, if even the congressional leadership adopted this tactic, media pressure would steer the others. \nSounds very cool. Who’s first?", ">\n\nI don't know why everyone is making such a big deal about this. Obama declassified all of these documents on his last day in office. He didn't tell anyone, but since he thought it, they are declassified. You can't prove me wrong.", ">\n\nA complete outrage. It took Garland nearly TWO YEARS of begging Trump pretty please for his documents back AND a warrant before a Special Prosecutor could be assigned on Trump, but within two months, he’s out front and center appointing one on Biden? Fuck all Garland apologists.", ">\n\nBefore Trump announced his candidacy for 2024, Garland didn't need a special counsel. He could investigate him directly.", ">\n\n“Could”", ">\n\nwhy are you using quotes? he was and is currently being investigated lol", ">\n\nOh yeah two years and the Georgia election officials weren’t even subpoenaed until last north by Jack Smith. Tell me more of this mythical investigation you think Garland was doing.", ">\n\nso you think there was no investigation?", ">\n\nSure, as slow walked and as toothless as it could be", ">\n\nit's not finished lol", ">\n\nGArlANd NEedS MoRE TiME tO bUiLd A cASE", ">\n\nand what exactly are your qualifications for investigating and prosecuting someone in federal court for a potential violation of the espionage act/obstruction of justice?", ">\n\nTrump and Biden should both be investigated for illegally having classified documents, the more serious crimes are the lying and obstruction of justice. If you steal a cookie from the cookie jar that’s a “crime” but if you confess to you parents it’s not as bad as if you’re parents catch you and confront you and you lie and try to blame someone else or say they have no authority over cookies and tell them to f-off. Your parents won’t be happy about either situation but one is clearly exponentially worse.", ">\n\nI'm guessing that's the end for Biden re-election dreams. Thank God. Hopefully dems find someone willing to run in 24 that isn't kamala Harris.", ">\n\nI voted for Biden and I’m fine with this.", ">\n\nSame.", ">\n\nWonder if anyone will remember either of these cases in 2024", ">\n\nIt won't matter once the investigation concludes Biden didn't do anything criminal and everyone moves on to something else.\nWe were assured Afghanistan would put Republicans right back into power and that didn't happen. This will be no different.", ">\n\nSounds good. And if actual malicious intent is found, prosecute anybody involved. \nY'know, malicious intent like refusing to return the documents, altering some by hand, letting some of them go missing, lying about how many they have, and not cooperating with the DOJ.", ">\n\nThis is a great opportunity to show what cooperating with an investigation looks like so we can make direct comparisons to the orange shitgibbon and his posse of clown lawyers.", ">\n\nTo what end? You can't squeeze juice out of a rock, not even with a most special counsel. The GOP is not a party of reason. Just like HRC going before their Benghazi committee for 6 hours...did that stop them? Heck no!", ">\n\nThe public has such a false and skewed notion of \"fair and non partisan\" that moves like this are largely pointless. If the evidence is convincing, it doesnt fucking matter how you launch a trial.", ">\n\nSo Trump took almost two years to investigate and Biden takes a couple days. Is Garland a Republican by any chance?", ">\n\nJFC - I came here to say this.", ">\n\nGod it’s only the second week of 2023 and I’m already burned out" ]

[ "Do a complete investigation, gather the evidence, follow all procedures and the law, seek justice without fear or favor no matter who is involved. Figure this mess out.", ">\n\nFully agree - and I'd actually like the investigation to be concluded swiftly since the ones being investigated will likely be 100% cooperative. It's not like DoJ will have to be dealing with full on liars and criminals which takes forever to find the answers.", ">\n\nI 100% agree that there ought to be a reasonable investigation into this but I do have to wonder if any of this matters at all given that Biden is currently the president and therefore has not only the right to have classified information but also the ability to declassify that information.\nNot trying to make excuses for the oversight (or lack thereof) of classified documents, but it seems to me as though this requires an investigation into how classified documents are handled during and after individuals have been given such status and after said status has lapsed.\nLet's be perfectly honest, if they had taken different actions on the first set of documents, we likely wouldn't even know about this because there was nobody searching for them.\nHad Biden and his lawyers actually been seriously corrupt, they could easily have disposed of them in a fireplace or down a toilet and no one would know the better.\nThe fact that they brought this directly to the attention of the proper authorities is at least proof that they do have respect for the rule of law and are willing to except the consequences, even if it is going to be used to make political hay while the sun shines.\nThat said, this likely has huge implications for executive privilege, especially to the extent that the former president argued he had. I personally do not have a problem with the minister of th Office of the President being able to be held accountable for their actions but only if it is equally applied across the board and not just something that we will have to deal with when presidents from the Democratic party are being scrutinized.", ">\n\n\nhas not only the right to have classified information but also the ability to declassify that information.\n\nHe does. But apparently these docs were from his Vice Presidency under Obama. So, it's a bit uncertain.\nAnd it really undermines at least one of the central charges you could have lodged against Trump, that everyone that is able to access classified documents has a substantive responsibility to make sure they are handled appropriately. The \"oh, well, we had to leave in a hurry and things just got mixed up\" arguments Trump could have made before would have had little merit - especially when you consider previous historic cases where even a single doc mishandled ended up with someone in jail.\nBut now Trump will be able to dilute that charge completely. He's still fucked on obstruction and everything else (hopefully).", ">\n\nClassified != Compartmentalized, Top Secret, etc.", ">\n\nI agree with you, but I was recently informed that sources say some of these classified documents were classified Top Secret.\nIt does appear as though ABC is confirming that sources are saying that some of these were top secret documents.\n\nSources also told ABC News that the original batch of about 10 documents found in November contains classified vice-presidential briefing papers about foreign countries, some of which were marked top secret.\n\nAnd CNN is not even using the journalistic term source, going so far as to assert that some of these documents were top secret.\n\nSome of the classified documents were “top secret,” the highest level. They were found in three or four boxes that also contained unclassified papers that fall under the Presidential Records Act, CNN has reported.\n\nIf we are going to maintain Integrity about the treatment of top secret classified documents, it is important to hold both sides accountable for their retention of documents.\nThank goodness that Biden's lawyers were up front with the FBI and NARA rather than lying about the retention of documents and obstructing an investigation.\nI really hope that Biden doesn't try to use the executive privilege argument to keep himself from investigation, but this is likely going to be a permanent stain on his reputation and definitely opens up the presidential field in the Democratic Party for 2024.", ">\n\nWhy would this be a permanent stain on Biden’s reputation?", ">\n\nBecause it will 100% be used along with whataboutism to suggest that Biden was going after Trump for the same thing that he was caught doing, regardless of the fact that Biden was not responsible for the investigation into Trump's documents has not been outspoken about the retention of documents, subsequent Lies by his lawyers, and obstruction.\nI'm not saying that it is going to be fair, or even rational but it is going to cause a stain and that will be used to pillory him.", ">\n\nSo in essence, this is only going to be a stain in the minds of people who are rather brainless to begin with….gotcha", ">\n\nIts a stain because it's political ammunition for the other side, not because you or I see it for the opportunitistically timed political assault that it seems to be. In modern politics, being on the defensive is the same as losing. Hillary Clinton's email fiasco likely contributed to the 2016 election results even though she wasn't indicted for a crime.\nThe people on the other side of the political spectrum who would consider this whole fiasco a stain on Biden AREN'T brainless, they're heavily propogandized, and they DO vote. This whole thing will be used to justify any or all of Trump's conduct that should be immediately disqualifying. Expect this to be split-screened with all of Trump's legal woes.\nHopefully Trump won't make it to the 2024 Election season as a viable candidate. If Trump does make it, Trump will use this against Biden. If Trump loses out to someone like DeSantis, there will be a concerted effort to crucify Biden with it.", ">\n\nMy favorite part of this:\nNo raging tweets from the president making up executive powers. Accusing people of planting evidence and arguing about a deep state conspiracy against him.", ">\n\nI’d be hilarious if he copy pasted one of trumps tweets and ended it with JK I’m not a raving lunatic in a middle of a tantrum.", ">\n\nThat would be some great dark Brandon shit.", ">\n\nI am all for a special counsel being appointed. But a Trump appointee feels like an attempt by Garland to bend over backwards to show just how apolitical he is. If he wanted to reach across the aisle, he couldn’t find a Bush appointee rather than someone appointed by a man who literally tried to upend the Republic and is known for appointing partisan hacks?", ">\n\nThis is how Garland has been acting since appointed. It’s like he’s so terrified of being perceived as biased against repubs that he instead acts biased against dems. He has truly been a failure at AG.. even more of a letdown than Mueller", ">\n\nWell, Garland is a conservative….. people think that he must be left wing because Obama nominated him for SCOTUS. NOPE! - he’s right wing and Obama was throwing the GOP a bone. The GOP just hated Obama so fucking much they slapped down a nominee that aligned with them.", ">\n\nTrue, Biden should have appointed someone else", ">\n\nOnly took a year and a half to appoint one for Trump. Also what about that DOJ policy about not investigating and prosecuting a sitting president which protected the former guy for, what, six years now?", ">\n\nGarland is not our friend.", ">\n\nWho’s friend, exactly? What does friendship have to do with accountability to rules and laws?\nAre you suggesting the DOJ should be aligned and friendly with one particular party or another and so they don’t have to follow rules and laws we expect others to comply with?", ">\n\nGarland is not a friend to justice.\nWhy has Trump not been indicted yet? What's the confusion?", ">\n\n\nWhy has Trump not been indicted yet?\n\nwhy would you expect him to have been? the investigation isn't over yet", ">\n\nit explains why they weren't indicted in the article", ">\n\nSome anonymous lawyer being quoted by CNN is not a definitive explanation at all. It's hearsay and well-meaning bullshit. But when the DOJ was asked? \"A spokesperson for the Department of Justice declined to comment.\" But if you do believe that anonymous source, do you really think they have executive privilege, as your source says? How TF do \"advisors\" get privilege?", ">\n\nthey worked in the White House", ">\n\nBad enough that everyone bought that crap, \"The president is immune to criminal prosecution and subpoenas.\" But now we're going to extend it to anyone who worked in the White House?! Holy cow you can't possibly believe that's a good idea.", ">\n\nAs. We. Would. Expect. 🤷‍♂️ \nCan't wait until Biden whines, makes excuses, tries to get a special master, claims that they where declassifi...... Oh wait. Dems don't do any of that.", ">\n\nIt doesn’t even matter cause republicans don’t care about mishandling classified document- oh wait…now they do.", ">\n\nAs a Democrat I am pretty pissed off at Biden for this, but I would be willing to bet he didn't know the documents were there. \nThat said, I am a strong believer in people being punished for breaking the law, even if they are on my \"team.\"\nIf he broke the law, punish him. \nJust make sure that that miserable, racist orange thing that yells all the time gets his as well.\nThis is the only way to have nice things.", ">\n\nBiden isn't asking for a special grand master or looking for a favorable court... weird.", ">\n\nLove how it took 2 years to do this for trump, and he ain't even president, 2 days for Biden and he is president. \nTo be clear, I'm not saying there shouldn't be an investigation, I'm saying Garland is showing his true colors pretty strongly with the disparity.\nEdit: I'm muting this thread, not trying to get banned for cussing some fool out again. Have a good night y'all.", ">\n\nThe difference will always be that most democrats are just fine with an investigation. Because they care about good governance instead of personality cults.", ">\n\nYeah, it's like Goofus and Gallant. Except Goofus wins every other election and beats your head in with a bat.", ">\n\nWeird how Garland can move with lightning speed when it’s a cover-your-ass political move. Lightning speed.", ">\n\nFucking ridiculous the kid-gloves treatment that Trump gets.", ">\n\nI feel like Trump is about to get his shit kicked in here by Jack Smith in about a month or so when the indictments start coming", ">\n\nI feel like someone has said this every month for the last 6 years. The point is, Trump is untouchable. His angry mob would never succeed in overthrowing the government, but they would likely affect quarterly profits.", ">\n\nThis right here. Gotta keep the wolves fed or they might bite you. \nDomestic Terrorism discourages commerce. They’re fucking cowards.", ">\n\nHow's that Trump indictment coming?", ">\n\nThis is all I'm concerned about. Biden's situation I'm sure will work itself out, but Trump has most certainly committed crimes well beyond and before simply having classified documents. I'm not even saying Biden hasn't broken the law, and he should be dealt with accordingly, but Trump has been a national security hazard and criminal since long before classified documents were found and obstruction was clearly committed to shield them, and this Biden situation should, in no way, get in the way of that case, which seems long overdue.", ">\n\nWeird. I thought the DOJ didn’t want to investigate presidents.", ">\n\nWeird, I recall the DOJ investigating Trump while he was president. And Clinton.", ">\n\nI'm not confused about it. There's no policy against investigating presidents, which is why the numerous investigations into recent sitting presidents happened and were not against any policy. There is a policy against indicting them, though that's not legally binding in any way, just a stated approach that the Justice dept. has outlined in the past.", ">\n\nThe difference between Republicans and Dems is on display again. \nNo cults, no obstructing. Let the legal system do its thing.", ">\n\nSo... he can move fast??", ">\n\nThis proves that Garland is exquisitely sensitive to (Republican) public opinion, which proves to me that he will never indict Trump.", ">\n\nHe has stated many times that no person is above the law. This proves that he's practices what he preaches.", ">\n\nDoes it though? He holds D’s to the rule of law, but drags his feet with R’s.. all to try to seem impartial. He is not holding everyone to the same standard.", ">\n\nthis is a good move despite what wackos in this sub will say. the alternative would be jim jordan and the house intelligence committee running crazy conspiracy theories over this investigation. \nwith this special counsel it will at least be an actual legitimate investigation that will in all likelihood tamper the political effects for biden, as well as create a more legitimate nonpartisan line between this and the trump situation. it won't matter for republicans anyway, but the appearance of impropriety is good!\nobviously there's some hiccup in whatever processes for classified documents there are if they can be mixed in with other documents, put in places they aren't supposed to be, forgotten about, etc. and perhaps that can come to light as a result of both of these investigations and those processes can be revised to address these issues, whether intentionally mishandled or mishandled due to ignorance/an accident.", ">\n\n\nthe alternative would be jim jordan and the house intelligence committee running crazy conspiracy theories over this investigation. \n\ni don't think is an \"either or\" kind of situation. you'll still get jim's hot take of the day once they set up the committee.", ">\n\nsure but as far as document requests and the like it could make it more complicated for the house to go as apeshit as they would otherwise", ">\n\nNo it won't. Because they are not grounded in reality. Just watch.", ">\n\ni mean the law still exists lol", ">\n\nDoes it, though?", ">\n\nyes\ndo you think jim jordan can just walk over to DOJ and grab a bunch of documents and tell the DOJ to fuck off?", ">\n\nNo. But he can tell the House to fuck off when they subpoena him. And that subpoena is referred to the DOJ for enforcement, Merrick Garland can sit on it for weeks and then eventually decline to prosecute. Just like it happened with Meadows.", ">\n\nSure, sounds reasonable. Seems pretty likely somebody committed a crime. \nRemind me again why Garland took 20 extra months to take action when a Republican had documents like this?", ">\n\nMerrick Garland took two years to appoint a special counsel to Trump but he took 1 week to appoint a special counsel to Biden. Is he trying to please the Republican house or someone powerful is really trying hard that Biden don't run again. What an idiotic decision. He is giving fuel to republicans. Any normal person would understand that Biden administration is co-operating with the appropriate authority to resolve this matter. I am so disappointed at Merrick Garland.", ">\n\nSo the day after trump announced he was running he appointed a special counsel. The day after Biden (presumptive candidate) is being investigated, appoint a special counsel.... seems consistent.", ">\n\nI understand the frustration, however, what's the alternative choice? \nDemocrats should let immoral and unethical actions of their members? \nDoesn't it sound ridiculous to suggest being lawful and ethical is losing?\nWhat the democrats need to do is clean up their dependence on big donor moneys by making significant changes to the laws surrounding political campaigns. \nWhen Republican's don't vote for campaign reform, they should be examined carefully by journalists, then shamed for any corruption, and arrested for any crimes.", ">\n\nI like this comment; there is a core of truth and clearheaded observation within that would likely solve most things political, if we can just convince the first national politician to unlatch from the corporate money tit. Someone has to be the wind-dummy, the maverick, and it would certainly be someone with enough independent wealth to tell the corporations and lobbyists to kick rocks. Hell, if even the congressional leadership adopted this tactic, media pressure would steer the others. \nSounds very cool. Who’s first?", ">\n\nI don't know why everyone is making such a big deal about this. Obama declassified all of these documents on his last day in office. He didn't tell anyone, but since he thought it, they are declassified. You can't prove me wrong.", ">\n\nA complete outrage. It took Garland nearly TWO YEARS of begging Trump pretty please for his documents back AND a warrant before a Special Prosecutor could be assigned on Trump, but within two months, he’s out front and center appointing one on Biden? Fuck all Garland apologists.", ">\n\nBefore Trump announced his candidacy for 2024, Garland didn't need a special counsel. He could investigate him directly.", ">\n\n“Could”", ">\n\nwhy are you using quotes? he was and is currently being investigated lol", ">\n\nOh yeah two years and the Georgia election officials weren’t even subpoenaed until last north by Jack Smith. Tell me more of this mythical investigation you think Garland was doing.", ">\n\nso you think there was no investigation?", ">\n\nSure, as slow walked and as toothless as it could be", ">\n\nit's not finished lol", ">\n\nGArlANd NEedS MoRE TiME tO bUiLd A cASE", ">\n\nand what exactly are your qualifications for investigating and prosecuting someone in federal court for a potential violation of the espionage act/obstruction of justice?", ">\n\nTrump and Biden should both be investigated for illegally having classified documents, the more serious crimes are the lying and obstruction of justice. If you steal a cookie from the cookie jar that’s a “crime” but if you confess to you parents it’s not as bad as if you’re parents catch you and confront you and you lie and try to blame someone else or say they have no authority over cookies and tell them to f-off. Your parents won’t be happy about either situation but one is clearly exponentially worse.", ">\n\nI'm guessing that's the end for Biden re-election dreams. Thank God. Hopefully dems find someone willing to run in 24 that isn't kamala Harris.", ">\n\nI voted for Biden and I’m fine with this.", ">\n\nSame.", ">\n\nWonder if anyone will remember either of these cases in 2024", ">\n\nIt won't matter once the investigation concludes Biden didn't do anything criminal and everyone moves on to something else.\nWe were assured Afghanistan would put Republicans right back into power and that didn't happen. This will be no different.", ">\n\nSounds good. And if actual malicious intent is found, prosecute anybody involved. \nY'know, malicious intent like refusing to return the documents, altering some by hand, letting some of them go missing, lying about how many they have, and not cooperating with the DOJ.", ">\n\nThis is a great opportunity to show what cooperating with an investigation looks like so we can make direct comparisons to the orange shitgibbon and his posse of clown lawyers.", ">\n\nTo what end? You can't squeeze juice out of a rock, not even with a most special counsel. The GOP is not a party of reason. Just like HRC going before their Benghazi committee for 6 hours...did that stop them? Heck no!", ">\n\nThe public has such a false and skewed notion of \"fair and non partisan\" that moves like this are largely pointless. If the evidence is convincing, it doesnt fucking matter how you launch a trial.", ">\n\nSo Trump took almost two years to investigate and Biden takes a couple days. Is Garland a Republican by any chance?", ">\n\nJFC - I came here to say this.", ">\n\nGod it’s only the second week of 2023 and I’m already burned out", ">\n\nWell that was fast wtf are they doing about Trump?" ]

[ "Do a complete investigation, gather the evidence, follow all procedures and the law, seek justice without fear or favor no matter who is involved. Figure this mess out.", ">\n\nFully agree - and I'd actually like the investigation to be concluded swiftly since the ones being investigated will likely be 100% cooperative. It's not like DoJ will have to be dealing with full on liars and criminals which takes forever to find the answers.", ">\n\nI 100% agree that there ought to be a reasonable investigation into this but I do have to wonder if any of this matters at all given that Biden is currently the president and therefore has not only the right to have classified information but also the ability to declassify that information.\nNot trying to make excuses for the oversight (or lack thereof) of classified documents, but it seems to me as though this requires an investigation into how classified documents are handled during and after individuals have been given such status and after said status has lapsed.\nLet's be perfectly honest, if they had taken different actions on the first set of documents, we likely wouldn't even know about this because there was nobody searching for them.\nHad Biden and his lawyers actually been seriously corrupt, they could easily have disposed of them in a fireplace or down a toilet and no one would know the better.\nThe fact that they brought this directly to the attention of the proper authorities is at least proof that they do have respect for the rule of law and are willing to except the consequences, even if it is going to be used to make political hay while the sun shines.\nThat said, this likely has huge implications for executive privilege, especially to the extent that the former president argued he had. I personally do not have a problem with the minister of th Office of the President being able to be held accountable for their actions but only if it is equally applied across the board and not just something that we will have to deal with when presidents from the Democratic party are being scrutinized.", ">\n\n\nhas not only the right to have classified information but also the ability to declassify that information.\n\nHe does. But apparently these docs were from his Vice Presidency under Obama. So, it's a bit uncertain.\nAnd it really undermines at least one of the central charges you could have lodged against Trump, that everyone that is able to access classified documents has a substantive responsibility to make sure they are handled appropriately. The \"oh, well, we had to leave in a hurry and things just got mixed up\" arguments Trump could have made before would have had little merit - especially when you consider previous historic cases where even a single doc mishandled ended up with someone in jail.\nBut now Trump will be able to dilute that charge completely. He's still fucked on obstruction and everything else (hopefully).", ">\n\nClassified != Compartmentalized, Top Secret, etc.", ">\n\nI agree with you, but I was recently informed that sources say some of these classified documents were classified Top Secret.\nIt does appear as though ABC is confirming that sources are saying that some of these were top secret documents.\n\nSources also told ABC News that the original batch of about 10 documents found in November contains classified vice-presidential briefing papers about foreign countries, some of which were marked top secret.\n\nAnd CNN is not even using the journalistic term source, going so far as to assert that some of these documents were top secret.\n\nSome of the classified documents were “top secret,” the highest level. They were found in three or four boxes that also contained unclassified papers that fall under the Presidential Records Act, CNN has reported.\n\nIf we are going to maintain Integrity about the treatment of top secret classified documents, it is important to hold both sides accountable for their retention of documents.\nThank goodness that Biden's lawyers were up front with the FBI and NARA rather than lying about the retention of documents and obstructing an investigation.\nI really hope that Biden doesn't try to use the executive privilege argument to keep himself from investigation, but this is likely going to be a permanent stain on his reputation and definitely opens up the presidential field in the Democratic Party for 2024.", ">\n\nWhy would this be a permanent stain on Biden’s reputation?", ">\n\nBecause it will 100% be used along with whataboutism to suggest that Biden was going after Trump for the same thing that he was caught doing, regardless of the fact that Biden was not responsible for the investigation into Trump's documents has not been outspoken about the retention of documents, subsequent Lies by his lawyers, and obstruction.\nI'm not saying that it is going to be fair, or even rational but it is going to cause a stain and that will be used to pillory him.", ">\n\nSo in essence, this is only going to be a stain in the minds of people who are rather brainless to begin with….gotcha", ">\n\nIts a stain because it's political ammunition for the other side, not because you or I see it for the opportunitistically timed political assault that it seems to be. In modern politics, being on the defensive is the same as losing. Hillary Clinton's email fiasco likely contributed to the 2016 election results even though she wasn't indicted for a crime.\nThe people on the other side of the political spectrum who would consider this whole fiasco a stain on Biden AREN'T brainless, they're heavily propogandized, and they DO vote. This whole thing will be used to justify any or all of Trump's conduct that should be immediately disqualifying. Expect this to be split-screened with all of Trump's legal woes.\nHopefully Trump won't make it to the 2024 Election season as a viable candidate. If Trump does make it, Trump will use this against Biden. If Trump loses out to someone like DeSantis, there will be a concerted effort to crucify Biden with it.", ">\n\nMy favorite part of this:\nNo raging tweets from the president making up executive powers. Accusing people of planting evidence and arguing about a deep state conspiracy against him.", ">\n\nI’d be hilarious if he copy pasted one of trumps tweets and ended it with JK I’m not a raving lunatic in a middle of a tantrum.", ">\n\nThat would be some great dark Brandon shit.", ">\n\nI am all for a special counsel being appointed. But a Trump appointee feels like an attempt by Garland to bend over backwards to show just how apolitical he is. If he wanted to reach across the aisle, he couldn’t find a Bush appointee rather than someone appointed by a man who literally tried to upend the Republic and is known for appointing partisan hacks?", ">\n\nThis is how Garland has been acting since appointed. It’s like he’s so terrified of being perceived as biased against repubs that he instead acts biased against dems. He has truly been a failure at AG.. even more of a letdown than Mueller", ">\n\nWell, Garland is a conservative….. people think that he must be left wing because Obama nominated him for SCOTUS. NOPE! - he’s right wing and Obama was throwing the GOP a bone. The GOP just hated Obama so fucking much they slapped down a nominee that aligned with them.", ">\n\nTrue, Biden should have appointed someone else", ">\n\nOnly took a year and a half to appoint one for Trump. Also what about that DOJ policy about not investigating and prosecuting a sitting president which protected the former guy for, what, six years now?", ">\n\nGarland is not our friend.", ">\n\nWho’s friend, exactly? What does friendship have to do with accountability to rules and laws?\nAre you suggesting the DOJ should be aligned and friendly with one particular party or another and so they don’t have to follow rules and laws we expect others to comply with?", ">\n\nGarland is not a friend to justice.\nWhy has Trump not been indicted yet? What's the confusion?", ">\n\n\nWhy has Trump not been indicted yet?\n\nwhy would you expect him to have been? the investigation isn't over yet", ">\n\nit explains why they weren't indicted in the article", ">\n\nSome anonymous lawyer being quoted by CNN is not a definitive explanation at all. It's hearsay and well-meaning bullshit. But when the DOJ was asked? \"A spokesperson for the Department of Justice declined to comment.\" But if you do believe that anonymous source, do you really think they have executive privilege, as your source says? How TF do \"advisors\" get privilege?", ">\n\nthey worked in the White House", ">\n\nBad enough that everyone bought that crap, \"The president is immune to criminal prosecution and subpoenas.\" But now we're going to extend it to anyone who worked in the White House?! Holy cow you can't possibly believe that's a good idea.", ">\n\nAs. We. Would. Expect. 🤷‍♂️ \nCan't wait until Biden whines, makes excuses, tries to get a special master, claims that they where declassifi...... Oh wait. Dems don't do any of that.", ">\n\nIt doesn’t even matter cause republicans don’t care about mishandling classified document- oh wait…now they do.", ">\n\nAs a Democrat I am pretty pissed off at Biden for this, but I would be willing to bet he didn't know the documents were there. \nThat said, I am a strong believer in people being punished for breaking the law, even if they are on my \"team.\"\nIf he broke the law, punish him. \nJust make sure that that miserable, racist orange thing that yells all the time gets his as well.\nThis is the only way to have nice things.", ">\n\nBiden isn't asking for a special grand master or looking for a favorable court... weird.", ">\n\nLove how it took 2 years to do this for trump, and he ain't even president, 2 days for Biden and he is president. \nTo be clear, I'm not saying there shouldn't be an investigation, I'm saying Garland is showing his true colors pretty strongly with the disparity.\nEdit: I'm muting this thread, not trying to get banned for cussing some fool out again. Have a good night y'all.", ">\n\nThe difference will always be that most democrats are just fine with an investigation. Because they care about good governance instead of personality cults.", ">\n\nYeah, it's like Goofus and Gallant. Except Goofus wins every other election and beats your head in with a bat.", ">\n\nWeird how Garland can move with lightning speed when it’s a cover-your-ass political move. Lightning speed.", ">\n\nFucking ridiculous the kid-gloves treatment that Trump gets.", ">\n\nI feel like Trump is about to get his shit kicked in here by Jack Smith in about a month or so when the indictments start coming", ">\n\nI feel like someone has said this every month for the last 6 years. The point is, Trump is untouchable. His angry mob would never succeed in overthrowing the government, but they would likely affect quarterly profits.", ">\n\nThis right here. Gotta keep the wolves fed or they might bite you. \nDomestic Terrorism discourages commerce. They’re fucking cowards.", ">\n\nHow's that Trump indictment coming?", ">\n\nThis is all I'm concerned about. Biden's situation I'm sure will work itself out, but Trump has most certainly committed crimes well beyond and before simply having classified documents. I'm not even saying Biden hasn't broken the law, and he should be dealt with accordingly, but Trump has been a national security hazard and criminal since long before classified documents were found and obstruction was clearly committed to shield them, and this Biden situation should, in no way, get in the way of that case, which seems long overdue.", ">\n\nWeird. I thought the DOJ didn’t want to investigate presidents.", ">\n\nWeird, I recall the DOJ investigating Trump while he was president. And Clinton.", ">\n\nI'm not confused about it. There's no policy against investigating presidents, which is why the numerous investigations into recent sitting presidents happened and were not against any policy. There is a policy against indicting them, though that's not legally binding in any way, just a stated approach that the Justice dept. has outlined in the past.", ">\n\nThe difference between Republicans and Dems is on display again. \nNo cults, no obstructing. Let the legal system do its thing.", ">\n\nSo... he can move fast??", ">\n\nThis proves that Garland is exquisitely sensitive to (Republican) public opinion, which proves to me that he will never indict Trump.", ">\n\nHe has stated many times that no person is above the law. This proves that he's practices what he preaches.", ">\n\nDoes it though? He holds D’s to the rule of law, but drags his feet with R’s.. all to try to seem impartial. He is not holding everyone to the same standard.", ">\n\nthis is a good move despite what wackos in this sub will say. the alternative would be jim jordan and the house intelligence committee running crazy conspiracy theories over this investigation. \nwith this special counsel it will at least be an actual legitimate investigation that will in all likelihood tamper the political effects for biden, as well as create a more legitimate nonpartisan line between this and the trump situation. it won't matter for republicans anyway, but the appearance of impropriety is good!\nobviously there's some hiccup in whatever processes for classified documents there are if they can be mixed in with other documents, put in places they aren't supposed to be, forgotten about, etc. and perhaps that can come to light as a result of both of these investigations and those processes can be revised to address these issues, whether intentionally mishandled or mishandled due to ignorance/an accident.", ">\n\n\nthe alternative would be jim jordan and the house intelligence committee running crazy conspiracy theories over this investigation. \n\ni don't think is an \"either or\" kind of situation. you'll still get jim's hot take of the day once they set up the committee.", ">\n\nsure but as far as document requests and the like it could make it more complicated for the house to go as apeshit as they would otherwise", ">\n\nNo it won't. Because they are not grounded in reality. Just watch.", ">\n\ni mean the law still exists lol", ">\n\nDoes it, though?", ">\n\nyes\ndo you think jim jordan can just walk over to DOJ and grab a bunch of documents and tell the DOJ to fuck off?", ">\n\nNo. But he can tell the House to fuck off when they subpoena him. And that subpoena is referred to the DOJ for enforcement, Merrick Garland can sit on it for weeks and then eventually decline to prosecute. Just like it happened with Meadows.", ">\n\nSure, sounds reasonable. Seems pretty likely somebody committed a crime. \nRemind me again why Garland took 20 extra months to take action when a Republican had documents like this?", ">\n\nMerrick Garland took two years to appoint a special counsel to Trump but he took 1 week to appoint a special counsel to Biden. Is he trying to please the Republican house or someone powerful is really trying hard that Biden don't run again. What an idiotic decision. He is giving fuel to republicans. Any normal person would understand that Biden administration is co-operating with the appropriate authority to resolve this matter. I am so disappointed at Merrick Garland.", ">\n\nSo the day after trump announced he was running he appointed a special counsel. The day after Biden (presumptive candidate) is being investigated, appoint a special counsel.... seems consistent.", ">\n\nI understand the frustration, however, what's the alternative choice? \nDemocrats should let immoral and unethical actions of their members? \nDoesn't it sound ridiculous to suggest being lawful and ethical is losing?\nWhat the democrats need to do is clean up their dependence on big donor moneys by making significant changes to the laws surrounding political campaigns. \nWhen Republican's don't vote for campaign reform, they should be examined carefully by journalists, then shamed for any corruption, and arrested for any crimes.", ">\n\nI like this comment; there is a core of truth and clearheaded observation within that would likely solve most things political, if we can just convince the first national politician to unlatch from the corporate money tit. Someone has to be the wind-dummy, the maverick, and it would certainly be someone with enough independent wealth to tell the corporations and lobbyists to kick rocks. Hell, if even the congressional leadership adopted this tactic, media pressure would steer the others. \nSounds very cool. Who’s first?", ">\n\nI don't know why everyone is making such a big deal about this. Obama declassified all of these documents on his last day in office. He didn't tell anyone, but since he thought it, they are declassified. You can't prove me wrong.", ">\n\nA complete outrage. It took Garland nearly TWO YEARS of begging Trump pretty please for his documents back AND a warrant before a Special Prosecutor could be assigned on Trump, but within two months, he’s out front and center appointing one on Biden? Fuck all Garland apologists.", ">\n\nBefore Trump announced his candidacy for 2024, Garland didn't need a special counsel. He could investigate him directly.", ">\n\n“Could”", ">\n\nwhy are you using quotes? he was and is currently being investigated lol", ">\n\nOh yeah two years and the Georgia election officials weren’t even subpoenaed until last north by Jack Smith. Tell me more of this mythical investigation you think Garland was doing.", ">\n\nso you think there was no investigation?", ">\n\nSure, as slow walked and as toothless as it could be", ">\n\nit's not finished lol", ">\n\nGArlANd NEedS MoRE TiME tO bUiLd A cASE", ">\n\nand what exactly are your qualifications for investigating and prosecuting someone in federal court for a potential violation of the espionage act/obstruction of justice?", ">\n\nTrump and Biden should both be investigated for illegally having classified documents, the more serious crimes are the lying and obstruction of justice. If you steal a cookie from the cookie jar that’s a “crime” but if you confess to you parents it’s not as bad as if you’re parents catch you and confront you and you lie and try to blame someone else or say they have no authority over cookies and tell them to f-off. Your parents won’t be happy about either situation but one is clearly exponentially worse.", ">\n\nI'm guessing that's the end for Biden re-election dreams. Thank God. Hopefully dems find someone willing to run in 24 that isn't kamala Harris.", ">\n\nI voted for Biden and I’m fine with this.", ">\n\nSame.", ">\n\nWonder if anyone will remember either of these cases in 2024", ">\n\nIt won't matter once the investigation concludes Biden didn't do anything criminal and everyone moves on to something else.\nWe were assured Afghanistan would put Republicans right back into power and that didn't happen. This will be no different.", ">\n\nSounds good. And if actual malicious intent is found, prosecute anybody involved. \nY'know, malicious intent like refusing to return the documents, altering some by hand, letting some of them go missing, lying about how many they have, and not cooperating with the DOJ.", ">\n\nThis is a great opportunity to show what cooperating with an investigation looks like so we can make direct comparisons to the orange shitgibbon and his posse of clown lawyers.", ">\n\nTo what end? You can't squeeze juice out of a rock, not even with a most special counsel. The GOP is not a party of reason. Just like HRC going before their Benghazi committee for 6 hours...did that stop them? Heck no!", ">\n\nThe public has such a false and skewed notion of \"fair and non partisan\" that moves like this are largely pointless. If the evidence is convincing, it doesnt fucking matter how you launch a trial.", ">\n\nSo Trump took almost two years to investigate and Biden takes a couple days. Is Garland a Republican by any chance?", ">\n\nJFC - I came here to say this.", ">\n\nGod it’s only the second week of 2023 and I’m already burned out", ">\n\nWell that was fast wtf are they doing about Trump?", ">\n\nWell that was fast!" ]

[ "Do a complete investigation, gather the evidence, follow all procedures and the law, seek justice without fear or favor no matter who is involved. Figure this mess out.", ">\n\nFully agree - and I'd actually like the investigation to be concluded swiftly since the ones being investigated will likely be 100% cooperative. It's not like DoJ will have to be dealing with full on liars and criminals which takes forever to find the answers.", ">\n\nI 100% agree that there ought to be a reasonable investigation into this but I do have to wonder if any of this matters at all given that Biden is currently the president and therefore has not only the right to have classified information but also the ability to declassify that information.\nNot trying to make excuses for the oversight (or lack thereof) of classified documents, but it seems to me as though this requires an investigation into how classified documents are handled during and after individuals have been given such status and after said status has lapsed.\nLet's be perfectly honest, if they had taken different actions on the first set of documents, we likely wouldn't even know about this because there was nobody searching for them.\nHad Biden and his lawyers actually been seriously corrupt, they could easily have disposed of them in a fireplace or down a toilet and no one would know the better.\nThe fact that they brought this directly to the attention of the proper authorities is at least proof that they do have respect for the rule of law and are willing to except the consequences, even if it is going to be used to make political hay while the sun shines.\nThat said, this likely has huge implications for executive privilege, especially to the extent that the former president argued he had. I personally do not have a problem with the minister of th Office of the President being able to be held accountable for their actions but only if it is equally applied across the board and not just something that we will have to deal with when presidents from the Democratic party are being scrutinized.", ">\n\n\nhas not only the right to have classified information but also the ability to declassify that information.\n\nHe does. But apparently these docs were from his Vice Presidency under Obama. So, it's a bit uncertain.\nAnd it really undermines at least one of the central charges you could have lodged against Trump, that everyone that is able to access classified documents has a substantive responsibility to make sure they are handled appropriately. The \"oh, well, we had to leave in a hurry and things just got mixed up\" arguments Trump could have made before would have had little merit - especially when you consider previous historic cases where even a single doc mishandled ended up with someone in jail.\nBut now Trump will be able to dilute that charge completely. He's still fucked on obstruction and everything else (hopefully).", ">\n\nClassified != Compartmentalized, Top Secret, etc.", ">\n\nI agree with you, but I was recently informed that sources say some of these classified documents were classified Top Secret.\nIt does appear as though ABC is confirming that sources are saying that some of these were top secret documents.\n\nSources also told ABC News that the original batch of about 10 documents found in November contains classified vice-presidential briefing papers about foreign countries, some of which were marked top secret.\n\nAnd CNN is not even using the journalistic term source, going so far as to assert that some of these documents were top secret.\n\nSome of the classified documents were “top secret,” the highest level. They were found in three or four boxes that also contained unclassified papers that fall under the Presidential Records Act, CNN has reported.\n\nIf we are going to maintain Integrity about the treatment of top secret classified documents, it is important to hold both sides accountable for their retention of documents.\nThank goodness that Biden's lawyers were up front with the FBI and NARA rather than lying about the retention of documents and obstructing an investigation.\nI really hope that Biden doesn't try to use the executive privilege argument to keep himself from investigation, but this is likely going to be a permanent stain on his reputation and definitely opens up the presidential field in the Democratic Party for 2024.", ">\n\nWhy would this be a permanent stain on Biden’s reputation?", ">\n\nBecause it will 100% be used along with whataboutism to suggest that Biden was going after Trump for the same thing that he was caught doing, regardless of the fact that Biden was not responsible for the investigation into Trump's documents has not been outspoken about the retention of documents, subsequent Lies by his lawyers, and obstruction.\nI'm not saying that it is going to be fair, or even rational but it is going to cause a stain and that will be used to pillory him.", ">\n\nSo in essence, this is only going to be a stain in the minds of people who are rather brainless to begin with….gotcha", ">\n\nIts a stain because it's political ammunition for the other side, not because you or I see it for the opportunitistically timed political assault that it seems to be. In modern politics, being on the defensive is the same as losing. Hillary Clinton's email fiasco likely contributed to the 2016 election results even though she wasn't indicted for a crime.\nThe people on the other side of the political spectrum who would consider this whole fiasco a stain on Biden AREN'T brainless, they're heavily propogandized, and they DO vote. This whole thing will be used to justify any or all of Trump's conduct that should be immediately disqualifying. Expect this to be split-screened with all of Trump's legal woes.\nHopefully Trump won't make it to the 2024 Election season as a viable candidate. If Trump does make it, Trump will use this against Biden. If Trump loses out to someone like DeSantis, there will be a concerted effort to crucify Biden with it.", ">\n\nMy favorite part of this:\nNo raging tweets from the president making up executive powers. Accusing people of planting evidence and arguing about a deep state conspiracy against him.", ">\n\nI’d be hilarious if he copy pasted one of trumps tweets and ended it with JK I’m not a raving lunatic in a middle of a tantrum.", ">\n\nThat would be some great dark Brandon shit.", ">\n\nI am all for a special counsel being appointed. But a Trump appointee feels like an attempt by Garland to bend over backwards to show just how apolitical he is. If he wanted to reach across the aisle, he couldn’t find a Bush appointee rather than someone appointed by a man who literally tried to upend the Republic and is known for appointing partisan hacks?", ">\n\nThis is how Garland has been acting since appointed. It’s like he’s so terrified of being perceived as biased against repubs that he instead acts biased against dems. He has truly been a failure at AG.. even more of a letdown than Mueller", ">\n\nWell, Garland is a conservative….. people think that he must be left wing because Obama nominated him for SCOTUS. NOPE! - he’s right wing and Obama was throwing the GOP a bone. The GOP just hated Obama so fucking much they slapped down a nominee that aligned with them.", ">\n\nTrue, Biden should have appointed someone else", ">\n\nOnly took a year and a half to appoint one for Trump. Also what about that DOJ policy about not investigating and prosecuting a sitting president which protected the former guy for, what, six years now?", ">\n\nGarland is not our friend.", ">\n\nWho’s friend, exactly? What does friendship have to do with accountability to rules and laws?\nAre you suggesting the DOJ should be aligned and friendly with one particular party or another and so they don’t have to follow rules and laws we expect others to comply with?", ">\n\nGarland is not a friend to justice.\nWhy has Trump not been indicted yet? What's the confusion?", ">\n\n\nWhy has Trump not been indicted yet?\n\nwhy would you expect him to have been? the investigation isn't over yet", ">\n\nit explains why they weren't indicted in the article", ">\n\nSome anonymous lawyer being quoted by CNN is not a definitive explanation at all. It's hearsay and well-meaning bullshit. But when the DOJ was asked? \"A spokesperson for the Department of Justice declined to comment.\" But if you do believe that anonymous source, do you really think they have executive privilege, as your source says? How TF do \"advisors\" get privilege?", ">\n\nthey worked in the White House", ">\n\nBad enough that everyone bought that crap, \"The president is immune to criminal prosecution and subpoenas.\" But now we're going to extend it to anyone who worked in the White House?! Holy cow you can't possibly believe that's a good idea.", ">\n\nAs. We. Would. Expect. 🤷‍♂️ \nCan't wait until Biden whines, makes excuses, tries to get a special master, claims that they where declassifi...... Oh wait. Dems don't do any of that.", ">\n\nIt doesn’t even matter cause republicans don’t care about mishandling classified document- oh wait…now they do.", ">\n\nAs a Democrat I am pretty pissed off at Biden for this, but I would be willing to bet he didn't know the documents were there. \nThat said, I am a strong believer in people being punished for breaking the law, even if they are on my \"team.\"\nIf he broke the law, punish him. \nJust make sure that that miserable, racist orange thing that yells all the time gets his as well.\nThis is the only way to have nice things.", ">\n\nBiden isn't asking for a special grand master or looking for a favorable court... weird.", ">\n\nLove how it took 2 years to do this for trump, and he ain't even president, 2 days for Biden and he is president. \nTo be clear, I'm not saying there shouldn't be an investigation, I'm saying Garland is showing his true colors pretty strongly with the disparity.\nEdit: I'm muting this thread, not trying to get banned for cussing some fool out again. Have a good night y'all.", ">\n\nThe difference will always be that most democrats are just fine with an investigation. Because they care about good governance instead of personality cults.", ">\n\nYeah, it's like Goofus and Gallant. Except Goofus wins every other election and beats your head in with a bat.", ">\n\nWeird how Garland can move with lightning speed when it’s a cover-your-ass political move. Lightning speed.", ">\n\nFucking ridiculous the kid-gloves treatment that Trump gets.", ">\n\nI feel like Trump is about to get his shit kicked in here by Jack Smith in about a month or so when the indictments start coming", ">\n\nI feel like someone has said this every month for the last 6 years. The point is, Trump is untouchable. His angry mob would never succeed in overthrowing the government, but they would likely affect quarterly profits.", ">\n\nThis right here. Gotta keep the wolves fed or they might bite you. \nDomestic Terrorism discourages commerce. They’re fucking cowards.", ">\n\nHow's that Trump indictment coming?", ">\n\nThis is all I'm concerned about. Biden's situation I'm sure will work itself out, but Trump has most certainly committed crimes well beyond and before simply having classified documents. I'm not even saying Biden hasn't broken the law, and he should be dealt with accordingly, but Trump has been a national security hazard and criminal since long before classified documents were found and obstruction was clearly committed to shield them, and this Biden situation should, in no way, get in the way of that case, which seems long overdue.", ">\n\nWeird. I thought the DOJ didn’t want to investigate presidents.", ">\n\nWeird, I recall the DOJ investigating Trump while he was president. And Clinton.", ">\n\nI'm not confused about it. There's no policy against investigating presidents, which is why the numerous investigations into recent sitting presidents happened and were not against any policy. There is a policy against indicting them, though that's not legally binding in any way, just a stated approach that the Justice dept. has outlined in the past.", ">\n\nThe difference between Republicans and Dems is on display again. \nNo cults, no obstructing. Let the legal system do its thing.", ">\n\nSo... he can move fast??", ">\n\nThis proves that Garland is exquisitely sensitive to (Republican) public opinion, which proves to me that he will never indict Trump.", ">\n\nHe has stated many times that no person is above the law. This proves that he's practices what he preaches.", ">\n\nDoes it though? He holds D’s to the rule of law, but drags his feet with R’s.. all to try to seem impartial. He is not holding everyone to the same standard.", ">\n\nthis is a good move despite what wackos in this sub will say. the alternative would be jim jordan and the house intelligence committee running crazy conspiracy theories over this investigation. \nwith this special counsel it will at least be an actual legitimate investigation that will in all likelihood tamper the political effects for biden, as well as create a more legitimate nonpartisan line between this and the trump situation. it won't matter for republicans anyway, but the appearance of impropriety is good!\nobviously there's some hiccup in whatever processes for classified documents there are if they can be mixed in with other documents, put in places they aren't supposed to be, forgotten about, etc. and perhaps that can come to light as a result of both of these investigations and those processes can be revised to address these issues, whether intentionally mishandled or mishandled due to ignorance/an accident.", ">\n\n\nthe alternative would be jim jordan and the house intelligence committee running crazy conspiracy theories over this investigation. \n\ni don't think is an \"either or\" kind of situation. you'll still get jim's hot take of the day once they set up the committee.", ">\n\nsure but as far as document requests and the like it could make it more complicated for the house to go as apeshit as they would otherwise", ">\n\nNo it won't. Because they are not grounded in reality. Just watch.", ">\n\ni mean the law still exists lol", ">\n\nDoes it, though?", ">\n\nyes\ndo you think jim jordan can just walk over to DOJ and grab a bunch of documents and tell the DOJ to fuck off?", ">\n\nNo. But he can tell the House to fuck off when they subpoena him. And that subpoena is referred to the DOJ for enforcement, Merrick Garland can sit on it for weeks and then eventually decline to prosecute. Just like it happened with Meadows.", ">\n\nSure, sounds reasonable. Seems pretty likely somebody committed a crime. \nRemind me again why Garland took 20 extra months to take action when a Republican had documents like this?", ">\n\nMerrick Garland took two years to appoint a special counsel to Trump but he took 1 week to appoint a special counsel to Biden. Is he trying to please the Republican house or someone powerful is really trying hard that Biden don't run again. What an idiotic decision. He is giving fuel to republicans. Any normal person would understand that Biden administration is co-operating with the appropriate authority to resolve this matter. I am so disappointed at Merrick Garland.", ">\n\nSo the day after trump announced he was running he appointed a special counsel. The day after Biden (presumptive candidate) is being investigated, appoint a special counsel.... seems consistent.", ">\n\nI understand the frustration, however, what's the alternative choice? \nDemocrats should let immoral and unethical actions of their members? \nDoesn't it sound ridiculous to suggest being lawful and ethical is losing?\nWhat the democrats need to do is clean up their dependence on big donor moneys by making significant changes to the laws surrounding political campaigns. \nWhen Republican's don't vote for campaign reform, they should be examined carefully by journalists, then shamed for any corruption, and arrested for any crimes.", ">\n\nI like this comment; there is a core of truth and clearheaded observation within that would likely solve most things political, if we can just convince the first national politician to unlatch from the corporate money tit. Someone has to be the wind-dummy, the maverick, and it would certainly be someone with enough independent wealth to tell the corporations and lobbyists to kick rocks. Hell, if even the congressional leadership adopted this tactic, media pressure would steer the others. \nSounds very cool. Who’s first?", ">\n\nI don't know why everyone is making such a big deal about this. Obama declassified all of these documents on his last day in office. He didn't tell anyone, but since he thought it, they are declassified. You can't prove me wrong.", ">\n\nA complete outrage. It took Garland nearly TWO YEARS of begging Trump pretty please for his documents back AND a warrant before a Special Prosecutor could be assigned on Trump, but within two months, he’s out front and center appointing one on Biden? Fuck all Garland apologists.", ">\n\nBefore Trump announced his candidacy for 2024, Garland didn't need a special counsel. He could investigate him directly.", ">\n\n“Could”", ">\n\nwhy are you using quotes? he was and is currently being investigated lol", ">\n\nOh yeah two years and the Georgia election officials weren’t even subpoenaed until last north by Jack Smith. Tell me more of this mythical investigation you think Garland was doing.", ">\n\nso you think there was no investigation?", ">\n\nSure, as slow walked and as toothless as it could be", ">\n\nit's not finished lol", ">\n\nGArlANd NEedS MoRE TiME tO bUiLd A cASE", ">\n\nand what exactly are your qualifications for investigating and prosecuting someone in federal court for a potential violation of the espionage act/obstruction of justice?", ">\n\nTrump and Biden should both be investigated for illegally having classified documents, the more serious crimes are the lying and obstruction of justice. If you steal a cookie from the cookie jar that’s a “crime” but if you confess to you parents it’s not as bad as if you’re parents catch you and confront you and you lie and try to blame someone else or say they have no authority over cookies and tell them to f-off. Your parents won’t be happy about either situation but one is clearly exponentially worse.", ">\n\nI'm guessing that's the end for Biden re-election dreams. Thank God. Hopefully dems find someone willing to run in 24 that isn't kamala Harris.", ">\n\nI voted for Biden and I’m fine with this.", ">\n\nSame.", ">\n\nWonder if anyone will remember either of these cases in 2024", ">\n\nIt won't matter once the investigation concludes Biden didn't do anything criminal and everyone moves on to something else.\nWe were assured Afghanistan would put Republicans right back into power and that didn't happen. This will be no different.", ">\n\nSounds good. And if actual malicious intent is found, prosecute anybody involved. \nY'know, malicious intent like refusing to return the documents, altering some by hand, letting some of them go missing, lying about how many they have, and not cooperating with the DOJ.", ">\n\nThis is a great opportunity to show what cooperating with an investigation looks like so we can make direct comparisons to the orange shitgibbon and his posse of clown lawyers.", ">\n\nTo what end? You can't squeeze juice out of a rock, not even with a most special counsel. The GOP is not a party of reason. Just like HRC going before their Benghazi committee for 6 hours...did that stop them? Heck no!", ">\n\nThe public has such a false and skewed notion of \"fair and non partisan\" that moves like this are largely pointless. If the evidence is convincing, it doesnt fucking matter how you launch a trial.", ">\n\nSo Trump took almost two years to investigate and Biden takes a couple days. Is Garland a Republican by any chance?", ">\n\nJFC - I came here to say this.", ">\n\nGod it’s only the second week of 2023 and I’m already burned out", ">\n\nWell that was fast wtf are they doing about Trump?", ">\n\nWell that was fast!", ">\n\nCool there should be. Wish someone from the cult would expect the same if their messiah." ]

[ "Do a complete investigation, gather the evidence, follow all procedures and the law, seek justice without fear or favor no matter who is involved. Figure this mess out.", ">\n\nFully agree - and I'd actually like the investigation to be concluded swiftly since the ones being investigated will likely be 100% cooperative. It's not like DoJ will have to be dealing with full on liars and criminals which takes forever to find the answers.", ">\n\nI 100% agree that there ought to be a reasonable investigation into this but I do have to wonder if any of this matters at all given that Biden is currently the president and therefore has not only the right to have classified information but also the ability to declassify that information.\nNot trying to make excuses for the oversight (or lack thereof) of classified documents, but it seems to me as though this requires an investigation into how classified documents are handled during and after individuals have been given such status and after said status has lapsed.\nLet's be perfectly honest, if they had taken different actions on the first set of documents, we likely wouldn't even know about this because there was nobody searching for them.\nHad Biden and his lawyers actually been seriously corrupt, they could easily have disposed of them in a fireplace or down a toilet and no one would know the better.\nThe fact that they brought this directly to the attention of the proper authorities is at least proof that they do have respect for the rule of law and are willing to except the consequences, even if it is going to be used to make political hay while the sun shines.\nThat said, this likely has huge implications for executive privilege, especially to the extent that the former president argued he had. I personally do not have a problem with the minister of th Office of the President being able to be held accountable for their actions but only if it is equally applied across the board and not just something that we will have to deal with when presidents from the Democratic party are being scrutinized.", ">\n\n\nhas not only the right to have classified information but also the ability to declassify that information.\n\nHe does. But apparently these docs were from his Vice Presidency under Obama. So, it's a bit uncertain.\nAnd it really undermines at least one of the central charges you could have lodged against Trump, that everyone that is able to access classified documents has a substantive responsibility to make sure they are handled appropriately. The \"oh, well, we had to leave in a hurry and things just got mixed up\" arguments Trump could have made before would have had little merit - especially when you consider previous historic cases where even a single doc mishandled ended up with someone in jail.\nBut now Trump will be able to dilute that charge completely. He's still fucked on obstruction and everything else (hopefully).", ">\n\nClassified != Compartmentalized, Top Secret, etc.", ">\n\nI agree with you, but I was recently informed that sources say some of these classified documents were classified Top Secret.\nIt does appear as though ABC is confirming that sources are saying that some of these were top secret documents.\n\nSources also told ABC News that the original batch of about 10 documents found in November contains classified vice-presidential briefing papers about foreign countries, some of which were marked top secret.\n\nAnd CNN is not even using the journalistic term source, going so far as to assert that some of these documents were top secret.\n\nSome of the classified documents were “top secret,” the highest level. They were found in three or four boxes that also contained unclassified papers that fall under the Presidential Records Act, CNN has reported.\n\nIf we are going to maintain Integrity about the treatment of top secret classified documents, it is important to hold both sides accountable for their retention of documents.\nThank goodness that Biden's lawyers were up front with the FBI and NARA rather than lying about the retention of documents and obstructing an investigation.\nI really hope that Biden doesn't try to use the executive privilege argument to keep himself from investigation, but this is likely going to be a permanent stain on his reputation and definitely opens up the presidential field in the Democratic Party for 2024.", ">\n\nWhy would this be a permanent stain on Biden’s reputation?", ">\n\nBecause it will 100% be used along with whataboutism to suggest that Biden was going after Trump for the same thing that he was caught doing, regardless of the fact that Biden was not responsible for the investigation into Trump's documents has not been outspoken about the retention of documents, subsequent Lies by his lawyers, and obstruction.\nI'm not saying that it is going to be fair, or even rational but it is going to cause a stain and that will be used to pillory him.", ">\n\nSo in essence, this is only going to be a stain in the minds of people who are rather brainless to begin with….gotcha", ">\n\nIts a stain because it's political ammunition for the other side, not because you or I see it for the opportunitistically timed political assault that it seems to be. In modern politics, being on the defensive is the same as losing. Hillary Clinton's email fiasco likely contributed to the 2016 election results even though she wasn't indicted for a crime.\nThe people on the other side of the political spectrum who would consider this whole fiasco a stain on Biden AREN'T brainless, they're heavily propogandized, and they DO vote. This whole thing will be used to justify any or all of Trump's conduct that should be immediately disqualifying. Expect this to be split-screened with all of Trump's legal woes.\nHopefully Trump won't make it to the 2024 Election season as a viable candidate. If Trump does make it, Trump will use this against Biden. If Trump loses out to someone like DeSantis, there will be a concerted effort to crucify Biden with it.", ">\n\nMy favorite part of this:\nNo raging tweets from the president making up executive powers. Accusing people of planting evidence and arguing about a deep state conspiracy against him.", ">\n\nI’d be hilarious if he copy pasted one of trumps tweets and ended it with JK I’m not a raving lunatic in a middle of a tantrum.", ">\n\nThat would be some great dark Brandon shit.", ">\n\nI am all for a special counsel being appointed. But a Trump appointee feels like an attempt by Garland to bend over backwards to show just how apolitical he is. If he wanted to reach across the aisle, he couldn’t find a Bush appointee rather than someone appointed by a man who literally tried to upend the Republic and is known for appointing partisan hacks?", ">\n\nThis is how Garland has been acting since appointed. It’s like he’s so terrified of being perceived as biased against repubs that he instead acts biased against dems. He has truly been a failure at AG.. even more of a letdown than Mueller", ">\n\nWell, Garland is a conservative….. people think that he must be left wing because Obama nominated him for SCOTUS. NOPE! - he’s right wing and Obama was throwing the GOP a bone. The GOP just hated Obama so fucking much they slapped down a nominee that aligned with them.", ">\n\nTrue, Biden should have appointed someone else", ">\n\nOnly took a year and a half to appoint one for Trump. Also what about that DOJ policy about not investigating and prosecuting a sitting president which protected the former guy for, what, six years now?", ">\n\nGarland is not our friend.", ">\n\nWho’s friend, exactly? What does friendship have to do with accountability to rules and laws?\nAre you suggesting the DOJ should be aligned and friendly with one particular party or another and so they don’t have to follow rules and laws we expect others to comply with?", ">\n\nGarland is not a friend to justice.\nWhy has Trump not been indicted yet? What's the confusion?", ">\n\n\nWhy has Trump not been indicted yet?\n\nwhy would you expect him to have been? the investigation isn't over yet", ">\n\nit explains why they weren't indicted in the article", ">\n\nSome anonymous lawyer being quoted by CNN is not a definitive explanation at all. It's hearsay and well-meaning bullshit. But when the DOJ was asked? \"A spokesperson for the Department of Justice declined to comment.\" But if you do believe that anonymous source, do you really think they have executive privilege, as your source says? How TF do \"advisors\" get privilege?", ">\n\nthey worked in the White House", ">\n\nBad enough that everyone bought that crap, \"The president is immune to criminal prosecution and subpoenas.\" But now we're going to extend it to anyone who worked in the White House?! Holy cow you can't possibly believe that's a good idea.", ">\n\nAs. We. Would. Expect. 🤷‍♂️ \nCan't wait until Biden whines, makes excuses, tries to get a special master, claims that they where declassifi...... Oh wait. Dems don't do any of that.", ">\n\nIt doesn’t even matter cause republicans don’t care about mishandling classified document- oh wait…now they do.", ">\n\nAs a Democrat I am pretty pissed off at Biden for this, but I would be willing to bet he didn't know the documents were there. \nThat said, I am a strong believer in people being punished for breaking the law, even if they are on my \"team.\"\nIf he broke the law, punish him. \nJust make sure that that miserable, racist orange thing that yells all the time gets his as well.\nThis is the only way to have nice things.", ">\n\nBiden isn't asking for a special grand master or looking for a favorable court... weird.", ">\n\nLove how it took 2 years to do this for trump, and he ain't even president, 2 days for Biden and he is president. \nTo be clear, I'm not saying there shouldn't be an investigation, I'm saying Garland is showing his true colors pretty strongly with the disparity.\nEdit: I'm muting this thread, not trying to get banned for cussing some fool out again. Have a good night y'all.", ">\n\nThe difference will always be that most democrats are just fine with an investigation. Because they care about good governance instead of personality cults.", ">\n\nYeah, it's like Goofus and Gallant. Except Goofus wins every other election and beats your head in with a bat.", ">\n\nWeird how Garland can move with lightning speed when it’s a cover-your-ass political move. Lightning speed.", ">\n\nFucking ridiculous the kid-gloves treatment that Trump gets.", ">\n\nI feel like Trump is about to get his shit kicked in here by Jack Smith in about a month or so when the indictments start coming", ">\n\nI feel like someone has said this every month for the last 6 years. The point is, Trump is untouchable. His angry mob would never succeed in overthrowing the government, but they would likely affect quarterly profits.", ">\n\nThis right here. Gotta keep the wolves fed or they might bite you. \nDomestic Terrorism discourages commerce. They’re fucking cowards.", ">\n\nHow's that Trump indictment coming?", ">\n\nThis is all I'm concerned about. Biden's situation I'm sure will work itself out, but Trump has most certainly committed crimes well beyond and before simply having classified documents. I'm not even saying Biden hasn't broken the law, and he should be dealt with accordingly, but Trump has been a national security hazard and criminal since long before classified documents were found and obstruction was clearly committed to shield them, and this Biden situation should, in no way, get in the way of that case, which seems long overdue.", ">\n\nWeird. I thought the DOJ didn’t want to investigate presidents.", ">\n\nWeird, I recall the DOJ investigating Trump while he was president. And Clinton.", ">\n\nI'm not confused about it. There's no policy against investigating presidents, which is why the numerous investigations into recent sitting presidents happened and were not against any policy. There is a policy against indicting them, though that's not legally binding in any way, just a stated approach that the Justice dept. has outlined in the past.", ">\n\nThe difference between Republicans and Dems is on display again. \nNo cults, no obstructing. Let the legal system do its thing.", ">\n\nSo... he can move fast??", ">\n\nThis proves that Garland is exquisitely sensitive to (Republican) public opinion, which proves to me that he will never indict Trump.", ">\n\nHe has stated many times that no person is above the law. This proves that he's practices what he preaches.", ">\n\nDoes it though? He holds D’s to the rule of law, but drags his feet with R’s.. all to try to seem impartial. He is not holding everyone to the same standard.", ">\n\nthis is a good move despite what wackos in this sub will say. the alternative would be jim jordan and the house intelligence committee running crazy conspiracy theories over this investigation. \nwith this special counsel it will at least be an actual legitimate investigation that will in all likelihood tamper the political effects for biden, as well as create a more legitimate nonpartisan line between this and the trump situation. it won't matter for republicans anyway, but the appearance of impropriety is good!\nobviously there's some hiccup in whatever processes for classified documents there are if they can be mixed in with other documents, put in places they aren't supposed to be, forgotten about, etc. and perhaps that can come to light as a result of both of these investigations and those processes can be revised to address these issues, whether intentionally mishandled or mishandled due to ignorance/an accident.", ">\n\n\nthe alternative would be jim jordan and the house intelligence committee running crazy conspiracy theories over this investigation. \n\ni don't think is an \"either or\" kind of situation. you'll still get jim's hot take of the day once they set up the committee.", ">\n\nsure but as far as document requests and the like it could make it more complicated for the house to go as apeshit as they would otherwise", ">\n\nNo it won't. Because they are not grounded in reality. Just watch.", ">\n\ni mean the law still exists lol", ">\n\nDoes it, though?", ">\n\nyes\ndo you think jim jordan can just walk over to DOJ and grab a bunch of documents and tell the DOJ to fuck off?", ">\n\nNo. But he can tell the House to fuck off when they subpoena him. And that subpoena is referred to the DOJ for enforcement, Merrick Garland can sit on it for weeks and then eventually decline to prosecute. Just like it happened with Meadows.", ">\n\nSure, sounds reasonable. Seems pretty likely somebody committed a crime. \nRemind me again why Garland took 20 extra months to take action when a Republican had documents like this?", ">\n\nMerrick Garland took two years to appoint a special counsel to Trump but he took 1 week to appoint a special counsel to Biden. Is he trying to please the Republican house or someone powerful is really trying hard that Biden don't run again. What an idiotic decision. He is giving fuel to republicans. Any normal person would understand that Biden administration is co-operating with the appropriate authority to resolve this matter. I am so disappointed at Merrick Garland.", ">\n\nSo the day after trump announced he was running he appointed a special counsel. The day after Biden (presumptive candidate) is being investigated, appoint a special counsel.... seems consistent.", ">\n\nI understand the frustration, however, what's the alternative choice? \nDemocrats should let immoral and unethical actions of their members? \nDoesn't it sound ridiculous to suggest being lawful and ethical is losing?\nWhat the democrats need to do is clean up their dependence on big donor moneys by making significant changes to the laws surrounding political campaigns. \nWhen Republican's don't vote for campaign reform, they should be examined carefully by journalists, then shamed for any corruption, and arrested for any crimes.", ">\n\nI like this comment; there is a core of truth and clearheaded observation within that would likely solve most things political, if we can just convince the first national politician to unlatch from the corporate money tit. Someone has to be the wind-dummy, the maverick, and it would certainly be someone with enough independent wealth to tell the corporations and lobbyists to kick rocks. Hell, if even the congressional leadership adopted this tactic, media pressure would steer the others. \nSounds very cool. Who’s first?", ">\n\nI don't know why everyone is making such a big deal about this. Obama declassified all of these documents on his last day in office. He didn't tell anyone, but since he thought it, they are declassified. You can't prove me wrong.", ">\n\nA complete outrage. It took Garland nearly TWO YEARS of begging Trump pretty please for his documents back AND a warrant before a Special Prosecutor could be assigned on Trump, but within two months, he’s out front and center appointing one on Biden? Fuck all Garland apologists.", ">\n\nBefore Trump announced his candidacy for 2024, Garland didn't need a special counsel. He could investigate him directly.", ">\n\n“Could”", ">\n\nwhy are you using quotes? he was and is currently being investigated lol", ">\n\nOh yeah two years and the Georgia election officials weren’t even subpoenaed until last north by Jack Smith. Tell me more of this mythical investigation you think Garland was doing.", ">\n\nso you think there was no investigation?", ">\n\nSure, as slow walked and as toothless as it could be", ">\n\nit's not finished lol", ">\n\nGArlANd NEedS MoRE TiME tO bUiLd A cASE", ">\n\nand what exactly are your qualifications for investigating and prosecuting someone in federal court for a potential violation of the espionage act/obstruction of justice?", ">\n\nTrump and Biden should both be investigated for illegally having classified documents, the more serious crimes are the lying and obstruction of justice. If you steal a cookie from the cookie jar that’s a “crime” but if you confess to you parents it’s not as bad as if you’re parents catch you and confront you and you lie and try to blame someone else or say they have no authority over cookies and tell them to f-off. Your parents won’t be happy about either situation but one is clearly exponentially worse.", ">\n\nI'm guessing that's the end for Biden re-election dreams. Thank God. Hopefully dems find someone willing to run in 24 that isn't kamala Harris.", ">\n\nI voted for Biden and I’m fine with this.", ">\n\nSame.", ">\n\nWonder if anyone will remember either of these cases in 2024", ">\n\nIt won't matter once the investigation concludes Biden didn't do anything criminal and everyone moves on to something else.\nWe were assured Afghanistan would put Republicans right back into power and that didn't happen. This will be no different.", ">\n\nSounds good. And if actual malicious intent is found, prosecute anybody involved. \nY'know, malicious intent like refusing to return the documents, altering some by hand, letting some of them go missing, lying about how many they have, and not cooperating with the DOJ.", ">\n\nThis is a great opportunity to show what cooperating with an investigation looks like so we can make direct comparisons to the orange shitgibbon and his posse of clown lawyers.", ">\n\nTo what end? You can't squeeze juice out of a rock, not even with a most special counsel. The GOP is not a party of reason. Just like HRC going before their Benghazi committee for 6 hours...did that stop them? Heck no!", ">\n\nThe public has such a false and skewed notion of \"fair and non partisan\" that moves like this are largely pointless. If the evidence is convincing, it doesnt fucking matter how you launch a trial.", ">\n\nSo Trump took almost two years to investigate and Biden takes a couple days. Is Garland a Republican by any chance?", ">\n\nJFC - I came here to say this.", ">\n\nGod it’s only the second week of 2023 and I’m already burned out", ">\n\nWell that was fast wtf are they doing about Trump?", ">\n\nWell that was fast!", ">\n\nCool there should be. Wish someone from the cult would expect the same if their messiah.", ">\n\nCool, sounds reasonable." ]

[ "Do a complete investigation, gather the evidence, follow all procedures and the law, seek justice without fear or favor no matter who is involved. Figure this mess out.", ">\n\nFully agree - and I'd actually like the investigation to be concluded swiftly since the ones being investigated will likely be 100% cooperative. It's not like DoJ will have to be dealing with full on liars and criminals which takes forever to find the answers.", ">\n\nI 100% agree that there ought to be a reasonable investigation into this but I do have to wonder if any of this matters at all given that Biden is currently the president and therefore has not only the right to have classified information but also the ability to declassify that information.\nNot trying to make excuses for the oversight (or lack thereof) of classified documents, but it seems to me as though this requires an investigation into how classified documents are handled during and after individuals have been given such status and after said status has lapsed.\nLet's be perfectly honest, if they had taken different actions on the first set of documents, we likely wouldn't even know about this because there was nobody searching for them.\nHad Biden and his lawyers actually been seriously corrupt, they could easily have disposed of them in a fireplace or down a toilet and no one would know the better.\nThe fact that they brought this directly to the attention of the proper authorities is at least proof that they do have respect for the rule of law and are willing to except the consequences, even if it is going to be used to make political hay while the sun shines.\nThat said, this likely has huge implications for executive privilege, especially to the extent that the former president argued he had. I personally do not have a problem with the minister of th Office of the President being able to be held accountable for their actions but only if it is equally applied across the board and not just something that we will have to deal with when presidents from the Democratic party are being scrutinized.", ">\n\n\nhas not only the right to have classified information but also the ability to declassify that information.\n\nHe does. But apparently these docs were from his Vice Presidency under Obama. So, it's a bit uncertain.\nAnd it really undermines at least one of the central charges you could have lodged against Trump, that everyone that is able to access classified documents has a substantive responsibility to make sure they are handled appropriately. The \"oh, well, we had to leave in a hurry and things just got mixed up\" arguments Trump could have made before would have had little merit - especially when you consider previous historic cases where even a single doc mishandled ended up with someone in jail.\nBut now Trump will be able to dilute that charge completely. He's still fucked on obstruction and everything else (hopefully).", ">\n\nClassified != Compartmentalized, Top Secret, etc.", ">\n\nI agree with you, but I was recently informed that sources say some of these classified documents were classified Top Secret.\nIt does appear as though ABC is confirming that sources are saying that some of these were top secret documents.\n\nSources also told ABC News that the original batch of about 10 documents found in November contains classified vice-presidential briefing papers about foreign countries, some of which were marked top secret.\n\nAnd CNN is not even using the journalistic term source, going so far as to assert that some of these documents were top secret.\n\nSome of the classified documents were “top secret,” the highest level. They were found in three or four boxes that also contained unclassified papers that fall under the Presidential Records Act, CNN has reported.\n\nIf we are going to maintain Integrity about the treatment of top secret classified documents, it is important to hold both sides accountable for their retention of documents.\nThank goodness that Biden's lawyers were up front with the FBI and NARA rather than lying about the retention of documents and obstructing an investigation.\nI really hope that Biden doesn't try to use the executive privilege argument to keep himself from investigation, but this is likely going to be a permanent stain on his reputation and definitely opens up the presidential field in the Democratic Party for 2024.", ">\n\nWhy would this be a permanent stain on Biden’s reputation?", ">\n\nBecause it will 100% be used along with whataboutism to suggest that Biden was going after Trump for the same thing that he was caught doing, regardless of the fact that Biden was not responsible for the investigation into Trump's documents has not been outspoken about the retention of documents, subsequent Lies by his lawyers, and obstruction.\nI'm not saying that it is going to be fair, or even rational but it is going to cause a stain and that will be used to pillory him.", ">\n\nSo in essence, this is only going to be a stain in the minds of people who are rather brainless to begin with….gotcha", ">\n\nIts a stain because it's political ammunition for the other side, not because you or I see it for the opportunitistically timed political assault that it seems to be. In modern politics, being on the defensive is the same as losing. Hillary Clinton's email fiasco likely contributed to the 2016 election results even though she wasn't indicted for a crime.\nThe people on the other side of the political spectrum who would consider this whole fiasco a stain on Biden AREN'T brainless, they're heavily propogandized, and they DO vote. This whole thing will be used to justify any or all of Trump's conduct that should be immediately disqualifying. Expect this to be split-screened with all of Trump's legal woes.\nHopefully Trump won't make it to the 2024 Election season as a viable candidate. If Trump does make it, Trump will use this against Biden. If Trump loses out to someone like DeSantis, there will be a concerted effort to crucify Biden with it.", ">\n\nMy favorite part of this:\nNo raging tweets from the president making up executive powers. Accusing people of planting evidence and arguing about a deep state conspiracy against him.", ">\n\nI’d be hilarious if he copy pasted one of trumps tweets and ended it with JK I’m not a raving lunatic in a middle of a tantrum.", ">\n\nThat would be some great dark Brandon shit.", ">\n\nI am all for a special counsel being appointed. But a Trump appointee feels like an attempt by Garland to bend over backwards to show just how apolitical he is. If he wanted to reach across the aisle, he couldn’t find a Bush appointee rather than someone appointed by a man who literally tried to upend the Republic and is known for appointing partisan hacks?", ">\n\nThis is how Garland has been acting since appointed. It’s like he’s so terrified of being perceived as biased against repubs that he instead acts biased against dems. He has truly been a failure at AG.. even more of a letdown than Mueller", ">\n\nWell, Garland is a conservative….. people think that he must be left wing because Obama nominated him for SCOTUS. NOPE! - he’s right wing and Obama was throwing the GOP a bone. The GOP just hated Obama so fucking much they slapped down a nominee that aligned with them.", ">\n\nTrue, Biden should have appointed someone else", ">\n\nOnly took a year and a half to appoint one for Trump. Also what about that DOJ policy about not investigating and prosecuting a sitting president which protected the former guy for, what, six years now?", ">\n\nGarland is not our friend.", ">\n\nWho’s friend, exactly? What does friendship have to do with accountability to rules and laws?\nAre you suggesting the DOJ should be aligned and friendly with one particular party or another and so they don’t have to follow rules and laws we expect others to comply with?", ">\n\nGarland is not a friend to justice.\nWhy has Trump not been indicted yet? What's the confusion?", ">\n\n\nWhy has Trump not been indicted yet?\n\nwhy would you expect him to have been? the investigation isn't over yet", ">\n\nit explains why they weren't indicted in the article", ">\n\nSome anonymous lawyer being quoted by CNN is not a definitive explanation at all. It's hearsay and well-meaning bullshit. But when the DOJ was asked? \"A spokesperson for the Department of Justice declined to comment.\" But if you do believe that anonymous source, do you really think they have executive privilege, as your source says? How TF do \"advisors\" get privilege?", ">\n\nthey worked in the White House", ">\n\nBad enough that everyone bought that crap, \"The president is immune to criminal prosecution and subpoenas.\" But now we're going to extend it to anyone who worked in the White House?! Holy cow you can't possibly believe that's a good idea.", ">\n\nAs. We. Would. Expect. 🤷‍♂️ \nCan't wait until Biden whines, makes excuses, tries to get a special master, claims that they where declassifi...... Oh wait. Dems don't do any of that.", ">\n\nIt doesn’t even matter cause republicans don’t care about mishandling classified document- oh wait…now they do.", ">\n\nAs a Democrat I am pretty pissed off at Biden for this, but I would be willing to bet he didn't know the documents were there. \nThat said, I am a strong believer in people being punished for breaking the law, even if they are on my \"team.\"\nIf he broke the law, punish him. \nJust make sure that that miserable, racist orange thing that yells all the time gets his as well.\nThis is the only way to have nice things.", ">\n\nBiden isn't asking for a special grand master or looking for a favorable court... weird.", ">\n\nLove how it took 2 years to do this for trump, and he ain't even president, 2 days for Biden and he is president. \nTo be clear, I'm not saying there shouldn't be an investigation, I'm saying Garland is showing his true colors pretty strongly with the disparity.\nEdit: I'm muting this thread, not trying to get banned for cussing some fool out again. Have a good night y'all.", ">\n\nThe difference will always be that most democrats are just fine with an investigation. Because they care about good governance instead of personality cults.", ">\n\nYeah, it's like Goofus and Gallant. Except Goofus wins every other election and beats your head in with a bat.", ">\n\nWeird how Garland can move with lightning speed when it’s a cover-your-ass political move. Lightning speed.", ">\n\nFucking ridiculous the kid-gloves treatment that Trump gets.", ">\n\nI feel like Trump is about to get his shit kicked in here by Jack Smith in about a month or so when the indictments start coming", ">\n\nI feel like someone has said this every month for the last 6 years. The point is, Trump is untouchable. His angry mob would never succeed in overthrowing the government, but they would likely affect quarterly profits.", ">\n\nThis right here. Gotta keep the wolves fed or they might bite you. \nDomestic Terrorism discourages commerce. They’re fucking cowards.", ">\n\nHow's that Trump indictment coming?", ">\n\nThis is all I'm concerned about. Biden's situation I'm sure will work itself out, but Trump has most certainly committed crimes well beyond and before simply having classified documents. I'm not even saying Biden hasn't broken the law, and he should be dealt with accordingly, but Trump has been a national security hazard and criminal since long before classified documents were found and obstruction was clearly committed to shield them, and this Biden situation should, in no way, get in the way of that case, which seems long overdue.", ">\n\nWeird. I thought the DOJ didn’t want to investigate presidents.", ">\n\nWeird, I recall the DOJ investigating Trump while he was president. And Clinton.", ">\n\nI'm not confused about it. There's no policy against investigating presidents, which is why the numerous investigations into recent sitting presidents happened and were not against any policy. There is a policy against indicting them, though that's not legally binding in any way, just a stated approach that the Justice dept. has outlined in the past.", ">\n\nThe difference between Republicans and Dems is on display again. \nNo cults, no obstructing. Let the legal system do its thing.", ">\n\nSo... he can move fast??", ">\n\nThis proves that Garland is exquisitely sensitive to (Republican) public opinion, which proves to me that he will never indict Trump.", ">\n\nHe has stated many times that no person is above the law. This proves that he's practices what he preaches.", ">\n\nDoes it though? He holds D’s to the rule of law, but drags his feet with R’s.. all to try to seem impartial. He is not holding everyone to the same standard.", ">\n\nthis is a good move despite what wackos in this sub will say. the alternative would be jim jordan and the house intelligence committee running crazy conspiracy theories over this investigation. \nwith this special counsel it will at least be an actual legitimate investigation that will in all likelihood tamper the political effects for biden, as well as create a more legitimate nonpartisan line between this and the trump situation. it won't matter for republicans anyway, but the appearance of impropriety is good!\nobviously there's some hiccup in whatever processes for classified documents there are if they can be mixed in with other documents, put in places they aren't supposed to be, forgotten about, etc. and perhaps that can come to light as a result of both of these investigations and those processes can be revised to address these issues, whether intentionally mishandled or mishandled due to ignorance/an accident.", ">\n\n\nthe alternative would be jim jordan and the house intelligence committee running crazy conspiracy theories over this investigation. \n\ni don't think is an \"either or\" kind of situation. you'll still get jim's hot take of the day once they set up the committee.", ">\n\nsure but as far as document requests and the like it could make it more complicated for the house to go as apeshit as they would otherwise", ">\n\nNo it won't. Because they are not grounded in reality. Just watch.", ">\n\ni mean the law still exists lol", ">\n\nDoes it, though?", ">\n\nyes\ndo you think jim jordan can just walk over to DOJ and grab a bunch of documents and tell the DOJ to fuck off?", ">\n\nNo. But he can tell the House to fuck off when they subpoena him. And that subpoena is referred to the DOJ for enforcement, Merrick Garland can sit on it for weeks and then eventually decline to prosecute. Just like it happened with Meadows.", ">\n\nSure, sounds reasonable. Seems pretty likely somebody committed a crime. \nRemind me again why Garland took 20 extra months to take action when a Republican had documents like this?", ">\n\nMerrick Garland took two years to appoint a special counsel to Trump but he took 1 week to appoint a special counsel to Biden. Is he trying to please the Republican house or someone powerful is really trying hard that Biden don't run again. What an idiotic decision. He is giving fuel to republicans. Any normal person would understand that Biden administration is co-operating with the appropriate authority to resolve this matter. I am so disappointed at Merrick Garland.", ">\n\nSo the day after trump announced he was running he appointed a special counsel. The day after Biden (presumptive candidate) is being investigated, appoint a special counsel.... seems consistent.", ">\n\nI understand the frustration, however, what's the alternative choice? \nDemocrats should let immoral and unethical actions of their members? \nDoesn't it sound ridiculous to suggest being lawful and ethical is losing?\nWhat the democrats need to do is clean up their dependence on big donor moneys by making significant changes to the laws surrounding political campaigns. \nWhen Republican's don't vote for campaign reform, they should be examined carefully by journalists, then shamed for any corruption, and arrested for any crimes.", ">\n\nI like this comment; there is a core of truth and clearheaded observation within that would likely solve most things political, if we can just convince the first national politician to unlatch from the corporate money tit. Someone has to be the wind-dummy, the maverick, and it would certainly be someone with enough independent wealth to tell the corporations and lobbyists to kick rocks. Hell, if even the congressional leadership adopted this tactic, media pressure would steer the others. \nSounds very cool. Who’s first?", ">\n\nI don't know why everyone is making such a big deal about this. Obama declassified all of these documents on his last day in office. He didn't tell anyone, but since he thought it, they are declassified. You can't prove me wrong.", ">\n\nA complete outrage. It took Garland nearly TWO YEARS of begging Trump pretty please for his documents back AND a warrant before a Special Prosecutor could be assigned on Trump, but within two months, he’s out front and center appointing one on Biden? Fuck all Garland apologists.", ">\n\nBefore Trump announced his candidacy for 2024, Garland didn't need a special counsel. He could investigate him directly.", ">\n\n“Could”", ">\n\nwhy are you using quotes? he was and is currently being investigated lol", ">\n\nOh yeah two years and the Georgia election officials weren’t even subpoenaed until last north by Jack Smith. Tell me more of this mythical investigation you think Garland was doing.", ">\n\nso you think there was no investigation?", ">\n\nSure, as slow walked and as toothless as it could be", ">\n\nit's not finished lol", ">\n\nGArlANd NEedS MoRE TiME tO bUiLd A cASE", ">\n\nand what exactly are your qualifications for investigating and prosecuting someone in federal court for a potential violation of the espionage act/obstruction of justice?", ">\n\nTrump and Biden should both be investigated for illegally having classified documents, the more serious crimes are the lying and obstruction of justice. If you steal a cookie from the cookie jar that’s a “crime” but if you confess to you parents it’s not as bad as if you’re parents catch you and confront you and you lie and try to blame someone else or say they have no authority over cookies and tell them to f-off. Your parents won’t be happy about either situation but one is clearly exponentially worse.", ">\n\nI'm guessing that's the end for Biden re-election dreams. Thank God. Hopefully dems find someone willing to run in 24 that isn't kamala Harris.", ">\n\nI voted for Biden and I’m fine with this.", ">\n\nSame.", ">\n\nWonder if anyone will remember either of these cases in 2024", ">\n\nIt won't matter once the investigation concludes Biden didn't do anything criminal and everyone moves on to something else.\nWe were assured Afghanistan would put Republicans right back into power and that didn't happen. This will be no different.", ">\n\nSounds good. And if actual malicious intent is found, prosecute anybody involved. \nY'know, malicious intent like refusing to return the documents, altering some by hand, letting some of them go missing, lying about how many they have, and not cooperating with the DOJ.", ">\n\nThis is a great opportunity to show what cooperating with an investigation looks like so we can make direct comparisons to the orange shitgibbon and his posse of clown lawyers.", ">\n\nTo what end? You can't squeeze juice out of a rock, not even with a most special counsel. The GOP is not a party of reason. Just like HRC going before their Benghazi committee for 6 hours...did that stop them? Heck no!", ">\n\nThe public has such a false and skewed notion of \"fair and non partisan\" that moves like this are largely pointless. If the evidence is convincing, it doesnt fucking matter how you launch a trial.", ">\n\nSo Trump took almost two years to investigate and Biden takes a couple days. Is Garland a Republican by any chance?", ">\n\nJFC - I came here to say this.", ">\n\nGod it’s only the second week of 2023 and I’m already burned out", ">\n\nWell that was fast wtf are they doing about Trump?", ">\n\nWell that was fast!", ">\n\nCool there should be. Wish someone from the cult would expect the same if their messiah.", ">\n\nCool, sounds reasonable.", ">\n\nSeems normal. I imagine this will go significantly faster since Biden won’t block everything imaginable." ]

[ "Do a complete investigation, gather the evidence, follow all procedures and the law, seek justice without fear or favor no matter who is involved. Figure this mess out.", ">\n\nFully agree - and I'd actually like the investigation to be concluded swiftly since the ones being investigated will likely be 100% cooperative. It's not like DoJ will have to be dealing with full on liars and criminals which takes forever to find the answers.", ">\n\nI 100% agree that there ought to be a reasonable investigation into this but I do have to wonder if any of this matters at all given that Biden is currently the president and therefore has not only the right to have classified information but also the ability to declassify that information.\nNot trying to make excuses for the oversight (or lack thereof) of classified documents, but it seems to me as though this requires an investigation into how classified documents are handled during and after individuals have been given such status and after said status has lapsed.\nLet's be perfectly honest, if they had taken different actions on the first set of documents, we likely wouldn't even know about this because there was nobody searching for them.\nHad Biden and his lawyers actually been seriously corrupt, they could easily have disposed of them in a fireplace or down a toilet and no one would know the better.\nThe fact that they brought this directly to the attention of the proper authorities is at least proof that they do have respect for the rule of law and are willing to except the consequences, even if it is going to be used to make political hay while the sun shines.\nThat said, this likely has huge implications for executive privilege, especially to the extent that the former president argued he had. I personally do not have a problem with the minister of th Office of the President being able to be held accountable for their actions but only if it is equally applied across the board and not just something that we will have to deal with when presidents from the Democratic party are being scrutinized.", ">\n\n\nhas not only the right to have classified information but also the ability to declassify that information.\n\nHe does. But apparently these docs were from his Vice Presidency under Obama. So, it's a bit uncertain.\nAnd it really undermines at least one of the central charges you could have lodged against Trump, that everyone that is able to access classified documents has a substantive responsibility to make sure they are handled appropriately. The \"oh, well, we had to leave in a hurry and things just got mixed up\" arguments Trump could have made before would have had little merit - especially when you consider previous historic cases where even a single doc mishandled ended up with someone in jail.\nBut now Trump will be able to dilute that charge completely. He's still fucked on obstruction and everything else (hopefully).", ">\n\nClassified != Compartmentalized, Top Secret, etc.", ">\n\nI agree with you, but I was recently informed that sources say some of these classified documents were classified Top Secret.\nIt does appear as though ABC is confirming that sources are saying that some of these were top secret documents.\n\nSources also told ABC News that the original batch of about 10 documents found in November contains classified vice-presidential briefing papers about foreign countries, some of which were marked top secret.\n\nAnd CNN is not even using the journalistic term source, going so far as to assert that some of these documents were top secret.\n\nSome of the classified documents were “top secret,” the highest level. They were found in three or four boxes that also contained unclassified papers that fall under the Presidential Records Act, CNN has reported.\n\nIf we are going to maintain Integrity about the treatment of top secret classified documents, it is important to hold both sides accountable for their retention of documents.\nThank goodness that Biden's lawyers were up front with the FBI and NARA rather than lying about the retention of documents and obstructing an investigation.\nI really hope that Biden doesn't try to use the executive privilege argument to keep himself from investigation, but this is likely going to be a permanent stain on his reputation and definitely opens up the presidential field in the Democratic Party for 2024.", ">\n\nWhy would this be a permanent stain on Biden’s reputation?", ">\n\nBecause it will 100% be used along with whataboutism to suggest that Biden was going after Trump for the same thing that he was caught doing, regardless of the fact that Biden was not responsible for the investigation into Trump's documents has not been outspoken about the retention of documents, subsequent Lies by his lawyers, and obstruction.\nI'm not saying that it is going to be fair, or even rational but it is going to cause a stain and that will be used to pillory him.", ">\n\nSo in essence, this is only going to be a stain in the minds of people who are rather brainless to begin with….gotcha", ">\n\nIts a stain because it's political ammunition for the other side, not because you or I see it for the opportunitistically timed political assault that it seems to be. In modern politics, being on the defensive is the same as losing. Hillary Clinton's email fiasco likely contributed to the 2016 election results even though she wasn't indicted for a crime.\nThe people on the other side of the political spectrum who would consider this whole fiasco a stain on Biden AREN'T brainless, they're heavily propogandized, and they DO vote. This whole thing will be used to justify any or all of Trump's conduct that should be immediately disqualifying. Expect this to be split-screened with all of Trump's legal woes.\nHopefully Trump won't make it to the 2024 Election season as a viable candidate. If Trump does make it, Trump will use this against Biden. If Trump loses out to someone like DeSantis, there will be a concerted effort to crucify Biden with it.", ">\n\nMy favorite part of this:\nNo raging tweets from the president making up executive powers. Accusing people of planting evidence and arguing about a deep state conspiracy against him.", ">\n\nI’d be hilarious if he copy pasted one of trumps tweets and ended it with JK I’m not a raving lunatic in a middle of a tantrum.", ">\n\nThat would be some great dark Brandon shit.", ">\n\nI am all for a special counsel being appointed. But a Trump appointee feels like an attempt by Garland to bend over backwards to show just how apolitical he is. If he wanted to reach across the aisle, he couldn’t find a Bush appointee rather than someone appointed by a man who literally tried to upend the Republic and is known for appointing partisan hacks?", ">\n\nThis is how Garland has been acting since appointed. It’s like he’s so terrified of being perceived as biased against repubs that he instead acts biased against dems. He has truly been a failure at AG.. even more of a letdown than Mueller", ">\n\nWell, Garland is a conservative….. people think that he must be left wing because Obama nominated him for SCOTUS. NOPE! - he’s right wing and Obama was throwing the GOP a bone. The GOP just hated Obama so fucking much they slapped down a nominee that aligned with them.", ">\n\nTrue, Biden should have appointed someone else", ">\n\nOnly took a year and a half to appoint one for Trump. Also what about that DOJ policy about not investigating and prosecuting a sitting president which protected the former guy for, what, six years now?", ">\n\nGarland is not our friend.", ">\n\nWho’s friend, exactly? What does friendship have to do with accountability to rules and laws?\nAre you suggesting the DOJ should be aligned and friendly with one particular party or another and so they don’t have to follow rules and laws we expect others to comply with?", ">\n\nGarland is not a friend to justice.\nWhy has Trump not been indicted yet? What's the confusion?", ">\n\n\nWhy has Trump not been indicted yet?\n\nwhy would you expect him to have been? the investigation isn't over yet", ">\n\nit explains why they weren't indicted in the article", ">\n\nSome anonymous lawyer being quoted by CNN is not a definitive explanation at all. It's hearsay and well-meaning bullshit. But when the DOJ was asked? \"A spokesperson for the Department of Justice declined to comment.\" But if you do believe that anonymous source, do you really think they have executive privilege, as your source says? How TF do \"advisors\" get privilege?", ">\n\nthey worked in the White House", ">\n\nBad enough that everyone bought that crap, \"The president is immune to criminal prosecution and subpoenas.\" But now we're going to extend it to anyone who worked in the White House?! Holy cow you can't possibly believe that's a good idea.", ">\n\nAs. We. Would. Expect. 🤷‍♂️ \nCan't wait until Biden whines, makes excuses, tries to get a special master, claims that they where declassifi...... Oh wait. Dems don't do any of that.", ">\n\nIt doesn’t even matter cause republicans don’t care about mishandling classified document- oh wait…now they do.", ">\n\nAs a Democrat I am pretty pissed off at Biden for this, but I would be willing to bet he didn't know the documents were there. \nThat said, I am a strong believer in people being punished for breaking the law, even if they are on my \"team.\"\nIf he broke the law, punish him. \nJust make sure that that miserable, racist orange thing that yells all the time gets his as well.\nThis is the only way to have nice things.", ">\n\nBiden isn't asking for a special grand master or looking for a favorable court... weird.", ">\n\nLove how it took 2 years to do this for trump, and he ain't even president, 2 days for Biden and he is president. \nTo be clear, I'm not saying there shouldn't be an investigation, I'm saying Garland is showing his true colors pretty strongly with the disparity.\nEdit: I'm muting this thread, not trying to get banned for cussing some fool out again. Have a good night y'all.", ">\n\nThe difference will always be that most democrats are just fine with an investigation. Because they care about good governance instead of personality cults.", ">\n\nYeah, it's like Goofus and Gallant. Except Goofus wins every other election and beats your head in with a bat.", ">\n\nWeird how Garland can move with lightning speed when it’s a cover-your-ass political move. Lightning speed.", ">\n\nFucking ridiculous the kid-gloves treatment that Trump gets.", ">\n\nI feel like Trump is about to get his shit kicked in here by Jack Smith in about a month or so when the indictments start coming", ">\n\nI feel like someone has said this every month for the last 6 years. The point is, Trump is untouchable. His angry mob would never succeed in overthrowing the government, but they would likely affect quarterly profits.", ">\n\nThis right here. Gotta keep the wolves fed or they might bite you. \nDomestic Terrorism discourages commerce. They’re fucking cowards.", ">\n\nHow's that Trump indictment coming?", ">\n\nThis is all I'm concerned about. Biden's situation I'm sure will work itself out, but Trump has most certainly committed crimes well beyond and before simply having classified documents. I'm not even saying Biden hasn't broken the law, and he should be dealt with accordingly, but Trump has been a national security hazard and criminal since long before classified documents were found and obstruction was clearly committed to shield them, and this Biden situation should, in no way, get in the way of that case, which seems long overdue.", ">\n\nWeird. I thought the DOJ didn’t want to investigate presidents.", ">\n\nWeird, I recall the DOJ investigating Trump while he was president. And Clinton.", ">\n\nI'm not confused about it. There's no policy against investigating presidents, which is why the numerous investigations into recent sitting presidents happened and were not against any policy. There is a policy against indicting them, though that's not legally binding in any way, just a stated approach that the Justice dept. has outlined in the past.", ">\n\nThe difference between Republicans and Dems is on display again. \nNo cults, no obstructing. Let the legal system do its thing.", ">\n\nSo... he can move fast??", ">\n\nThis proves that Garland is exquisitely sensitive to (Republican) public opinion, which proves to me that he will never indict Trump.", ">\n\nHe has stated many times that no person is above the law. This proves that he's practices what he preaches.", ">\n\nDoes it though? He holds D’s to the rule of law, but drags his feet with R’s.. all to try to seem impartial. He is not holding everyone to the same standard.", ">\n\nthis is a good move despite what wackos in this sub will say. the alternative would be jim jordan and the house intelligence committee running crazy conspiracy theories over this investigation. \nwith this special counsel it will at least be an actual legitimate investigation that will in all likelihood tamper the political effects for biden, as well as create a more legitimate nonpartisan line between this and the trump situation. it won't matter for republicans anyway, but the appearance of impropriety is good!\nobviously there's some hiccup in whatever processes for classified documents there are if they can be mixed in with other documents, put in places they aren't supposed to be, forgotten about, etc. and perhaps that can come to light as a result of both of these investigations and those processes can be revised to address these issues, whether intentionally mishandled or mishandled due to ignorance/an accident.", ">\n\n\nthe alternative would be jim jordan and the house intelligence committee running crazy conspiracy theories over this investigation. \n\ni don't think is an \"either or\" kind of situation. you'll still get jim's hot take of the day once they set up the committee.", ">\n\nsure but as far as document requests and the like it could make it more complicated for the house to go as apeshit as they would otherwise", ">\n\nNo it won't. Because they are not grounded in reality. Just watch.", ">\n\ni mean the law still exists lol", ">\n\nDoes it, though?", ">\n\nyes\ndo you think jim jordan can just walk over to DOJ and grab a bunch of documents and tell the DOJ to fuck off?", ">\n\nNo. But he can tell the House to fuck off when they subpoena him. And that subpoena is referred to the DOJ for enforcement, Merrick Garland can sit on it for weeks and then eventually decline to prosecute. Just like it happened with Meadows.", ">\n\nSure, sounds reasonable. Seems pretty likely somebody committed a crime. \nRemind me again why Garland took 20 extra months to take action when a Republican had documents like this?", ">\n\nMerrick Garland took two years to appoint a special counsel to Trump but he took 1 week to appoint a special counsel to Biden. Is he trying to please the Republican house or someone powerful is really trying hard that Biden don't run again. What an idiotic decision. He is giving fuel to republicans. Any normal person would understand that Biden administration is co-operating with the appropriate authority to resolve this matter. I am so disappointed at Merrick Garland.", ">\n\nSo the day after trump announced he was running he appointed a special counsel. The day after Biden (presumptive candidate) is being investigated, appoint a special counsel.... seems consistent.", ">\n\nI understand the frustration, however, what's the alternative choice? \nDemocrats should let immoral and unethical actions of their members? \nDoesn't it sound ridiculous to suggest being lawful and ethical is losing?\nWhat the democrats need to do is clean up their dependence on big donor moneys by making significant changes to the laws surrounding political campaigns. \nWhen Republican's don't vote for campaign reform, they should be examined carefully by journalists, then shamed for any corruption, and arrested for any crimes.", ">\n\nI like this comment; there is a core of truth and clearheaded observation within that would likely solve most things political, if we can just convince the first national politician to unlatch from the corporate money tit. Someone has to be the wind-dummy, the maverick, and it would certainly be someone with enough independent wealth to tell the corporations and lobbyists to kick rocks. Hell, if even the congressional leadership adopted this tactic, media pressure would steer the others. \nSounds very cool. Who’s first?", ">\n\nI don't know why everyone is making such a big deal about this. Obama declassified all of these documents on his last day in office. He didn't tell anyone, but since he thought it, they are declassified. You can't prove me wrong.", ">\n\nA complete outrage. It took Garland nearly TWO YEARS of begging Trump pretty please for his documents back AND a warrant before a Special Prosecutor could be assigned on Trump, but within two months, he’s out front and center appointing one on Biden? Fuck all Garland apologists.", ">\n\nBefore Trump announced his candidacy for 2024, Garland didn't need a special counsel. He could investigate him directly.", ">\n\n“Could”", ">\n\nwhy are you using quotes? he was and is currently being investigated lol", ">\n\nOh yeah two years and the Georgia election officials weren’t even subpoenaed until last north by Jack Smith. Tell me more of this mythical investigation you think Garland was doing.", ">\n\nso you think there was no investigation?", ">\n\nSure, as slow walked and as toothless as it could be", ">\n\nit's not finished lol", ">\n\nGArlANd NEedS MoRE TiME tO bUiLd A cASE", ">\n\nand what exactly are your qualifications for investigating and prosecuting someone in federal court for a potential violation of the espionage act/obstruction of justice?", ">\n\nTrump and Biden should both be investigated for illegally having classified documents, the more serious crimes are the lying and obstruction of justice. If you steal a cookie from the cookie jar that’s a “crime” but if you confess to you parents it’s not as bad as if you’re parents catch you and confront you and you lie and try to blame someone else or say they have no authority over cookies and tell them to f-off. Your parents won’t be happy about either situation but one is clearly exponentially worse.", ">\n\nI'm guessing that's the end for Biden re-election dreams. Thank God. Hopefully dems find someone willing to run in 24 that isn't kamala Harris.", ">\n\nI voted for Biden and I’m fine with this.", ">\n\nSame.", ">\n\nWonder if anyone will remember either of these cases in 2024", ">\n\nIt won't matter once the investigation concludes Biden didn't do anything criminal and everyone moves on to something else.\nWe were assured Afghanistan would put Republicans right back into power and that didn't happen. This will be no different.", ">\n\nSounds good. And if actual malicious intent is found, prosecute anybody involved. \nY'know, malicious intent like refusing to return the documents, altering some by hand, letting some of them go missing, lying about how many they have, and not cooperating with the DOJ.", ">\n\nThis is a great opportunity to show what cooperating with an investigation looks like so we can make direct comparisons to the orange shitgibbon and his posse of clown lawyers.", ">\n\nTo what end? You can't squeeze juice out of a rock, not even with a most special counsel. The GOP is not a party of reason. Just like HRC going before their Benghazi committee for 6 hours...did that stop them? Heck no!", ">\n\nThe public has such a false and skewed notion of \"fair and non partisan\" that moves like this are largely pointless. If the evidence is convincing, it doesnt fucking matter how you launch a trial.", ">\n\nSo Trump took almost two years to investigate and Biden takes a couple days. Is Garland a Republican by any chance?", ">\n\nJFC - I came here to say this.", ">\n\nGod it’s only the second week of 2023 and I’m already burned out", ">\n\nWell that was fast wtf are they doing about Trump?", ">\n\nWell that was fast!", ">\n\nCool there should be. Wish someone from the cult would expect the same if their messiah.", ">\n\nCool, sounds reasonable.", ">\n\nSeems normal. I imagine this will go significantly faster since Biden won’t block everything imaginable.", ">\n\ndoocy on fox news right now is the hardest he's been since Jen Psaki's last CBT session on national TV with him in the press core." ]

[ "Do a complete investigation, gather the evidence, follow all procedures and the law, seek justice without fear or favor no matter who is involved. Figure this mess out.", ">\n\nFully agree - and I'd actually like the investigation to be concluded swiftly since the ones being investigated will likely be 100% cooperative. It's not like DoJ will have to be dealing with full on liars and criminals which takes forever to find the answers.", ">\n\nI 100% agree that there ought to be a reasonable investigation into this but I do have to wonder if any of this matters at all given that Biden is currently the president and therefore has not only the right to have classified information but also the ability to declassify that information.\nNot trying to make excuses for the oversight (or lack thereof) of classified documents, but it seems to me as though this requires an investigation into how classified documents are handled during and after individuals have been given such status and after said status has lapsed.\nLet's be perfectly honest, if they had taken different actions on the first set of documents, we likely wouldn't even know about this because there was nobody searching for them.\nHad Biden and his lawyers actually been seriously corrupt, they could easily have disposed of them in a fireplace or down a toilet and no one would know the better.\nThe fact that they brought this directly to the attention of the proper authorities is at least proof that they do have respect for the rule of law and are willing to except the consequences, even if it is going to be used to make political hay while the sun shines.\nThat said, this likely has huge implications for executive privilege, especially to the extent that the former president argued he had. I personally do not have a problem with the minister of th Office of the President being able to be held accountable for their actions but only if it is equally applied across the board and not just something that we will have to deal with when presidents from the Democratic party are being scrutinized.", ">\n\n\nhas not only the right to have classified information but also the ability to declassify that information.\n\nHe does. But apparently these docs were from his Vice Presidency under Obama. So, it's a bit uncertain.\nAnd it really undermines at least one of the central charges you could have lodged against Trump, that everyone that is able to access classified documents has a substantive responsibility to make sure they are handled appropriately. The \"oh, well, we had to leave in a hurry and things just got mixed up\" arguments Trump could have made before would have had little merit - especially when you consider previous historic cases where even a single doc mishandled ended up with someone in jail.\nBut now Trump will be able to dilute that charge completely. He's still fucked on obstruction and everything else (hopefully).", ">\n\nClassified != Compartmentalized, Top Secret, etc.", ">\n\nI agree with you, but I was recently informed that sources say some of these classified documents were classified Top Secret.\nIt does appear as though ABC is confirming that sources are saying that some of these were top secret documents.\n\nSources also told ABC News that the original batch of about 10 documents found in November contains classified vice-presidential briefing papers about foreign countries, some of which were marked top secret.\n\nAnd CNN is not even using the journalistic term source, going so far as to assert that some of these documents were top secret.\n\nSome of the classified documents were “top secret,” the highest level. They were found in three or four boxes that also contained unclassified papers that fall under the Presidential Records Act, CNN has reported.\n\nIf we are going to maintain Integrity about the treatment of top secret classified documents, it is important to hold both sides accountable for their retention of documents.\nThank goodness that Biden's lawyers were up front with the FBI and NARA rather than lying about the retention of documents and obstructing an investigation.\nI really hope that Biden doesn't try to use the executive privilege argument to keep himself from investigation, but this is likely going to be a permanent stain on his reputation and definitely opens up the presidential field in the Democratic Party for 2024.", ">\n\nWhy would this be a permanent stain on Biden’s reputation?", ">\n\nBecause it will 100% be used along with whataboutism to suggest that Biden was going after Trump for the same thing that he was caught doing, regardless of the fact that Biden was not responsible for the investigation into Trump's documents has not been outspoken about the retention of documents, subsequent Lies by his lawyers, and obstruction.\nI'm not saying that it is going to be fair, or even rational but it is going to cause a stain and that will be used to pillory him.", ">\n\nSo in essence, this is only going to be a stain in the minds of people who are rather brainless to begin with….gotcha", ">\n\nIts a stain because it's political ammunition for the other side, not because you or I see it for the opportunitistically timed political assault that it seems to be. In modern politics, being on the defensive is the same as losing. Hillary Clinton's email fiasco likely contributed to the 2016 election results even though she wasn't indicted for a crime.\nThe people on the other side of the political spectrum who would consider this whole fiasco a stain on Biden AREN'T brainless, they're heavily propogandized, and they DO vote. This whole thing will be used to justify any or all of Trump's conduct that should be immediately disqualifying. Expect this to be split-screened with all of Trump's legal woes.\nHopefully Trump won't make it to the 2024 Election season as a viable candidate. If Trump does make it, Trump will use this against Biden. If Trump loses out to someone like DeSantis, there will be a concerted effort to crucify Biden with it.", ">\n\nMy favorite part of this:\nNo raging tweets from the president making up executive powers. Accusing people of planting evidence and arguing about a deep state conspiracy against him.", ">\n\nI’d be hilarious if he copy pasted one of trumps tweets and ended it with JK I’m not a raving lunatic in a middle of a tantrum.", ">\n\nThat would be some great dark Brandon shit.", ">\n\nI am all for a special counsel being appointed. But a Trump appointee feels like an attempt by Garland to bend over backwards to show just how apolitical he is. If he wanted to reach across the aisle, he couldn’t find a Bush appointee rather than someone appointed by a man who literally tried to upend the Republic and is known for appointing partisan hacks?", ">\n\nThis is how Garland has been acting since appointed. It’s like he’s so terrified of being perceived as biased against repubs that he instead acts biased against dems. He has truly been a failure at AG.. even more of a letdown than Mueller", ">\n\nWell, Garland is a conservative….. people think that he must be left wing because Obama nominated him for SCOTUS. NOPE! - he’s right wing and Obama was throwing the GOP a bone. The GOP just hated Obama so fucking much they slapped down a nominee that aligned with them.", ">\n\nTrue, Biden should have appointed someone else", ">\n\nOnly took a year and a half to appoint one for Trump. Also what about that DOJ policy about not investigating and prosecuting a sitting president which protected the former guy for, what, six years now?", ">\n\nGarland is not our friend.", ">\n\nWho’s friend, exactly? What does friendship have to do with accountability to rules and laws?\nAre you suggesting the DOJ should be aligned and friendly with one particular party or another and so they don’t have to follow rules and laws we expect others to comply with?", ">\n\nGarland is not a friend to justice.\nWhy has Trump not been indicted yet? What's the confusion?", ">\n\n\nWhy has Trump not been indicted yet?\n\nwhy would you expect him to have been? the investigation isn't over yet", ">\n\nit explains why they weren't indicted in the article", ">\n\nSome anonymous lawyer being quoted by CNN is not a definitive explanation at all. It's hearsay and well-meaning bullshit. But when the DOJ was asked? \"A spokesperson for the Department of Justice declined to comment.\" But if you do believe that anonymous source, do you really think they have executive privilege, as your source says? How TF do \"advisors\" get privilege?", ">\n\nthey worked in the White House", ">\n\nBad enough that everyone bought that crap, \"The president is immune to criminal prosecution and subpoenas.\" But now we're going to extend it to anyone who worked in the White House?! Holy cow you can't possibly believe that's a good idea.", ">\n\nAs. We. Would. Expect. 🤷‍♂️ \nCan't wait until Biden whines, makes excuses, tries to get a special master, claims that they where declassifi...... Oh wait. Dems don't do any of that.", ">\n\nIt doesn’t even matter cause republicans don’t care about mishandling classified document- oh wait…now they do.", ">\n\nAs a Democrat I am pretty pissed off at Biden for this, but I would be willing to bet he didn't know the documents were there. \nThat said, I am a strong believer in people being punished for breaking the law, even if they are on my \"team.\"\nIf he broke the law, punish him. \nJust make sure that that miserable, racist orange thing that yells all the time gets his as well.\nThis is the only way to have nice things.", ">\n\nBiden isn't asking for a special grand master or looking for a favorable court... weird.", ">\n\nLove how it took 2 years to do this for trump, and he ain't even president, 2 days for Biden and he is president. \nTo be clear, I'm not saying there shouldn't be an investigation, I'm saying Garland is showing his true colors pretty strongly with the disparity.\nEdit: I'm muting this thread, not trying to get banned for cussing some fool out again. Have a good night y'all.", ">\n\nThe difference will always be that most democrats are just fine with an investigation. Because they care about good governance instead of personality cults.", ">\n\nYeah, it's like Goofus and Gallant. Except Goofus wins every other election and beats your head in with a bat.", ">\n\nWeird how Garland can move with lightning speed when it’s a cover-your-ass political move. Lightning speed.", ">\n\nFucking ridiculous the kid-gloves treatment that Trump gets.", ">\n\nI feel like Trump is about to get his shit kicked in here by Jack Smith in about a month or so when the indictments start coming", ">\n\nI feel like someone has said this every month for the last 6 years. The point is, Trump is untouchable. His angry mob would never succeed in overthrowing the government, but they would likely affect quarterly profits.", ">\n\nThis right here. Gotta keep the wolves fed or they might bite you. \nDomestic Terrorism discourages commerce. They’re fucking cowards.", ">\n\nHow's that Trump indictment coming?", ">\n\nThis is all I'm concerned about. Biden's situation I'm sure will work itself out, but Trump has most certainly committed crimes well beyond and before simply having classified documents. I'm not even saying Biden hasn't broken the law, and he should be dealt with accordingly, but Trump has been a national security hazard and criminal since long before classified documents were found and obstruction was clearly committed to shield them, and this Biden situation should, in no way, get in the way of that case, which seems long overdue.", ">\n\nWeird. I thought the DOJ didn’t want to investigate presidents.", ">\n\nWeird, I recall the DOJ investigating Trump while he was president. And Clinton.", ">\n\nI'm not confused about it. There's no policy against investigating presidents, which is why the numerous investigations into recent sitting presidents happened and were not against any policy. There is a policy against indicting them, though that's not legally binding in any way, just a stated approach that the Justice dept. has outlined in the past.", ">\n\nThe difference between Republicans and Dems is on display again. \nNo cults, no obstructing. Let the legal system do its thing.", ">\n\nSo... he can move fast??", ">\n\nThis proves that Garland is exquisitely sensitive to (Republican) public opinion, which proves to me that he will never indict Trump.", ">\n\nHe has stated many times that no person is above the law. This proves that he's practices what he preaches.", ">\n\nDoes it though? He holds D’s to the rule of law, but drags his feet with R’s.. all to try to seem impartial. He is not holding everyone to the same standard.", ">\n\nthis is a good move despite what wackos in this sub will say. the alternative would be jim jordan and the house intelligence committee running crazy conspiracy theories over this investigation. \nwith this special counsel it will at least be an actual legitimate investigation that will in all likelihood tamper the political effects for biden, as well as create a more legitimate nonpartisan line between this and the trump situation. it won't matter for republicans anyway, but the appearance of impropriety is good!\nobviously there's some hiccup in whatever processes for classified documents there are if they can be mixed in with other documents, put in places they aren't supposed to be, forgotten about, etc. and perhaps that can come to light as a result of both of these investigations and those processes can be revised to address these issues, whether intentionally mishandled or mishandled due to ignorance/an accident.", ">\n\n\nthe alternative would be jim jordan and the house intelligence committee running crazy conspiracy theories over this investigation. \n\ni don't think is an \"either or\" kind of situation. you'll still get jim's hot take of the day once they set up the committee.", ">\n\nsure but as far as document requests and the like it could make it more complicated for the house to go as apeshit as they would otherwise", ">\n\nNo it won't. Because they are not grounded in reality. Just watch.", ">\n\ni mean the law still exists lol", ">\n\nDoes it, though?", ">\n\nyes\ndo you think jim jordan can just walk over to DOJ and grab a bunch of documents and tell the DOJ to fuck off?", ">\n\nNo. But he can tell the House to fuck off when they subpoena him. And that subpoena is referred to the DOJ for enforcement, Merrick Garland can sit on it for weeks and then eventually decline to prosecute. Just like it happened with Meadows.", ">\n\nSure, sounds reasonable. Seems pretty likely somebody committed a crime. \nRemind me again why Garland took 20 extra months to take action when a Republican had documents like this?", ">\n\nMerrick Garland took two years to appoint a special counsel to Trump but he took 1 week to appoint a special counsel to Biden. Is he trying to please the Republican house or someone powerful is really trying hard that Biden don't run again. What an idiotic decision. He is giving fuel to republicans. Any normal person would understand that Biden administration is co-operating with the appropriate authority to resolve this matter. I am so disappointed at Merrick Garland.", ">\n\nSo the day after trump announced he was running he appointed a special counsel. The day after Biden (presumptive candidate) is being investigated, appoint a special counsel.... seems consistent.", ">\n\nI understand the frustration, however, what's the alternative choice? \nDemocrats should let immoral and unethical actions of their members? \nDoesn't it sound ridiculous to suggest being lawful and ethical is losing?\nWhat the democrats need to do is clean up their dependence on big donor moneys by making significant changes to the laws surrounding political campaigns. \nWhen Republican's don't vote for campaign reform, they should be examined carefully by journalists, then shamed for any corruption, and arrested for any crimes.", ">\n\nI like this comment; there is a core of truth and clearheaded observation within that would likely solve most things political, if we can just convince the first national politician to unlatch from the corporate money tit. Someone has to be the wind-dummy, the maverick, and it would certainly be someone with enough independent wealth to tell the corporations and lobbyists to kick rocks. Hell, if even the congressional leadership adopted this tactic, media pressure would steer the others. \nSounds very cool. Who’s first?", ">\n\nI don't know why everyone is making such a big deal about this. Obama declassified all of these documents on his last day in office. He didn't tell anyone, but since he thought it, they are declassified. You can't prove me wrong.", ">\n\nA complete outrage. It took Garland nearly TWO YEARS of begging Trump pretty please for his documents back AND a warrant before a Special Prosecutor could be assigned on Trump, but within two months, he’s out front and center appointing one on Biden? Fuck all Garland apologists.", ">\n\nBefore Trump announced his candidacy for 2024, Garland didn't need a special counsel. He could investigate him directly.", ">\n\n“Could”", ">\n\nwhy are you using quotes? he was and is currently being investigated lol", ">\n\nOh yeah two years and the Georgia election officials weren’t even subpoenaed until last north by Jack Smith. Tell me more of this mythical investigation you think Garland was doing.", ">\n\nso you think there was no investigation?", ">\n\nSure, as slow walked and as toothless as it could be", ">\n\nit's not finished lol", ">\n\nGArlANd NEedS MoRE TiME tO bUiLd A cASE", ">\n\nand what exactly are your qualifications for investigating and prosecuting someone in federal court for a potential violation of the espionage act/obstruction of justice?", ">\n\nTrump and Biden should both be investigated for illegally having classified documents, the more serious crimes are the lying and obstruction of justice. If you steal a cookie from the cookie jar that’s a “crime” but if you confess to you parents it’s not as bad as if you’re parents catch you and confront you and you lie and try to blame someone else or say they have no authority over cookies and tell them to f-off. Your parents won’t be happy about either situation but one is clearly exponentially worse.", ">\n\nI'm guessing that's the end for Biden re-election dreams. Thank God. Hopefully dems find someone willing to run in 24 that isn't kamala Harris.", ">\n\nI voted for Biden and I’m fine with this.", ">\n\nSame.", ">\n\nWonder if anyone will remember either of these cases in 2024", ">\n\nIt won't matter once the investigation concludes Biden didn't do anything criminal and everyone moves on to something else.\nWe were assured Afghanistan would put Republicans right back into power and that didn't happen. This will be no different.", ">\n\nSounds good. And if actual malicious intent is found, prosecute anybody involved. \nY'know, malicious intent like refusing to return the documents, altering some by hand, letting some of them go missing, lying about how many they have, and not cooperating with the DOJ.", ">\n\nThis is a great opportunity to show what cooperating with an investigation looks like so we can make direct comparisons to the orange shitgibbon and his posse of clown lawyers.", ">\n\nTo what end? You can't squeeze juice out of a rock, not even with a most special counsel. The GOP is not a party of reason. Just like HRC going before their Benghazi committee for 6 hours...did that stop them? Heck no!", ">\n\nThe public has such a false and skewed notion of \"fair and non partisan\" that moves like this are largely pointless. If the evidence is convincing, it doesnt fucking matter how you launch a trial.", ">\n\nSo Trump took almost two years to investigate and Biden takes a couple days. Is Garland a Republican by any chance?", ">\n\nJFC - I came here to say this.", ">\n\nGod it’s only the second week of 2023 and I’m already burned out", ">\n\nWell that was fast wtf are they doing about Trump?", ">\n\nWell that was fast!", ">\n\nCool there should be. Wish someone from the cult would expect the same if their messiah.", ">\n\nCool, sounds reasonable.", ">\n\nSeems normal. I imagine this will go significantly faster since Biden won’t block everything imaginable.", ">\n\ndoocy on fox news right now is the hardest he's been since Jen Psaki's last CBT session on national TV with him in the press core.", ">\n\nI'm a Democrat, voted for Biden. If he fucked up, he should face the consequences." ]

[ "Do a complete investigation, gather the evidence, follow all procedures and the law, seek justice without fear or favor no matter who is involved. Figure this mess out.", ">\n\nFully agree - and I'd actually like the investigation to be concluded swiftly since the ones being investigated will likely be 100% cooperative. It's not like DoJ will have to be dealing with full on liars and criminals which takes forever to find the answers.", ">\n\nI 100% agree that there ought to be a reasonable investigation into this but I do have to wonder if any of this matters at all given that Biden is currently the president and therefore has not only the right to have classified information but also the ability to declassify that information.\nNot trying to make excuses for the oversight (or lack thereof) of classified documents, but it seems to me as though this requires an investigation into how classified documents are handled during and after individuals have been given such status and after said status has lapsed.\nLet's be perfectly honest, if they had taken different actions on the first set of documents, we likely wouldn't even know about this because there was nobody searching for them.\nHad Biden and his lawyers actually been seriously corrupt, they could easily have disposed of them in a fireplace or down a toilet and no one would know the better.\nThe fact that they brought this directly to the attention of the proper authorities is at least proof that they do have respect for the rule of law and are willing to except the consequences, even if it is going to be used to make political hay while the sun shines.\nThat said, this likely has huge implications for executive privilege, especially to the extent that the former president argued he had. I personally do not have a problem with the minister of th Office of the President being able to be held accountable for their actions but only if it is equally applied across the board and not just something that we will have to deal with when presidents from the Democratic party are being scrutinized.", ">\n\n\nhas not only the right to have classified information but also the ability to declassify that information.\n\nHe does. But apparently these docs were from his Vice Presidency under Obama. So, it's a bit uncertain.\nAnd it really undermines at least one of the central charges you could have lodged against Trump, that everyone that is able to access classified documents has a substantive responsibility to make sure they are handled appropriately. The \"oh, well, we had to leave in a hurry and things just got mixed up\" arguments Trump could have made before would have had little merit - especially when you consider previous historic cases where even a single doc mishandled ended up with someone in jail.\nBut now Trump will be able to dilute that charge completely. He's still fucked on obstruction and everything else (hopefully).", ">\n\nClassified != Compartmentalized, Top Secret, etc.", ">\n\nI agree with you, but I was recently informed that sources say some of these classified documents were classified Top Secret.\nIt does appear as though ABC is confirming that sources are saying that some of these were top secret documents.\n\nSources also told ABC News that the original batch of about 10 documents found in November contains classified vice-presidential briefing papers about foreign countries, some of which were marked top secret.\n\nAnd CNN is not even using the journalistic term source, going so far as to assert that some of these documents were top secret.\n\nSome of the classified documents were “top secret,” the highest level. They were found in three or four boxes that also contained unclassified papers that fall under the Presidential Records Act, CNN has reported.\n\nIf we are going to maintain Integrity about the treatment of top secret classified documents, it is important to hold both sides accountable for their retention of documents.\nThank goodness that Biden's lawyers were up front with the FBI and NARA rather than lying about the retention of documents and obstructing an investigation.\nI really hope that Biden doesn't try to use the executive privilege argument to keep himself from investigation, but this is likely going to be a permanent stain on his reputation and definitely opens up the presidential field in the Democratic Party for 2024.", ">\n\nWhy would this be a permanent stain on Biden’s reputation?", ">\n\nBecause it will 100% be used along with whataboutism to suggest that Biden was going after Trump for the same thing that he was caught doing, regardless of the fact that Biden was not responsible for the investigation into Trump's documents has not been outspoken about the retention of documents, subsequent Lies by his lawyers, and obstruction.\nI'm not saying that it is going to be fair, or even rational but it is going to cause a stain and that will be used to pillory him.", ">\n\nSo in essence, this is only going to be a stain in the minds of people who are rather brainless to begin with….gotcha", ">\n\nIts a stain because it's political ammunition for the other side, not because you or I see it for the opportunitistically timed political assault that it seems to be. In modern politics, being on the defensive is the same as losing. Hillary Clinton's email fiasco likely contributed to the 2016 election results even though she wasn't indicted for a crime.\nThe people on the other side of the political spectrum who would consider this whole fiasco a stain on Biden AREN'T brainless, they're heavily propogandized, and they DO vote. This whole thing will be used to justify any or all of Trump's conduct that should be immediately disqualifying. Expect this to be split-screened with all of Trump's legal woes.\nHopefully Trump won't make it to the 2024 Election season as a viable candidate. If Trump does make it, Trump will use this against Biden. If Trump loses out to someone like DeSantis, there will be a concerted effort to crucify Biden with it.", ">\n\nMy favorite part of this:\nNo raging tweets from the president making up executive powers. Accusing people of planting evidence and arguing about a deep state conspiracy against him.", ">\n\nI’d be hilarious if he copy pasted one of trumps tweets and ended it with JK I’m not a raving lunatic in a middle of a tantrum.", ">\n\nThat would be some great dark Brandon shit.", ">\n\nI am all for a special counsel being appointed. But a Trump appointee feels like an attempt by Garland to bend over backwards to show just how apolitical he is. If he wanted to reach across the aisle, he couldn’t find a Bush appointee rather than someone appointed by a man who literally tried to upend the Republic and is known for appointing partisan hacks?", ">\n\nThis is how Garland has been acting since appointed. It’s like he’s so terrified of being perceived as biased against repubs that he instead acts biased against dems. He has truly been a failure at AG.. even more of a letdown than Mueller", ">\n\nWell, Garland is a conservative….. people think that he must be left wing because Obama nominated him for SCOTUS. NOPE! - he’s right wing and Obama was throwing the GOP a bone. The GOP just hated Obama so fucking much they slapped down a nominee that aligned with them.", ">\n\nTrue, Biden should have appointed someone else", ">\n\nOnly took a year and a half to appoint one for Trump. Also what about that DOJ policy about not investigating and prosecuting a sitting president which protected the former guy for, what, six years now?", ">\n\nGarland is not our friend.", ">\n\nWho’s friend, exactly? What does friendship have to do with accountability to rules and laws?\nAre you suggesting the DOJ should be aligned and friendly with one particular party or another and so they don’t have to follow rules and laws we expect others to comply with?", ">\n\nGarland is not a friend to justice.\nWhy has Trump not been indicted yet? What's the confusion?", ">\n\n\nWhy has Trump not been indicted yet?\n\nwhy would you expect him to have been? the investigation isn't over yet", ">\n\nit explains why they weren't indicted in the article", ">\n\nSome anonymous lawyer being quoted by CNN is not a definitive explanation at all. It's hearsay and well-meaning bullshit. But when the DOJ was asked? \"A spokesperson for the Department of Justice declined to comment.\" But if you do believe that anonymous source, do you really think they have executive privilege, as your source says? How TF do \"advisors\" get privilege?", ">\n\nthey worked in the White House", ">\n\nBad enough that everyone bought that crap, \"The president is immune to criminal prosecution and subpoenas.\" But now we're going to extend it to anyone who worked in the White House?! Holy cow you can't possibly believe that's a good idea.", ">\n\nAs. We. Would. Expect. 🤷‍♂️ \nCan't wait until Biden whines, makes excuses, tries to get a special master, claims that they where declassifi...... Oh wait. Dems don't do any of that.", ">\n\nIt doesn’t even matter cause republicans don’t care about mishandling classified document- oh wait…now they do.", ">\n\nAs a Democrat I am pretty pissed off at Biden for this, but I would be willing to bet he didn't know the documents were there. \nThat said, I am a strong believer in people being punished for breaking the law, even if they are on my \"team.\"\nIf he broke the law, punish him. \nJust make sure that that miserable, racist orange thing that yells all the time gets his as well.\nThis is the only way to have nice things.", ">\n\nBiden isn't asking for a special grand master or looking for a favorable court... weird.", ">\n\nLove how it took 2 years to do this for trump, and he ain't even president, 2 days for Biden and he is president. \nTo be clear, I'm not saying there shouldn't be an investigation, I'm saying Garland is showing his true colors pretty strongly with the disparity.\nEdit: I'm muting this thread, not trying to get banned for cussing some fool out again. Have a good night y'all.", ">\n\nThe difference will always be that most democrats are just fine with an investigation. Because they care about good governance instead of personality cults.", ">\n\nYeah, it's like Goofus and Gallant. Except Goofus wins every other election and beats your head in with a bat.", ">\n\nWeird how Garland can move with lightning speed when it’s a cover-your-ass political move. Lightning speed.", ">\n\nFucking ridiculous the kid-gloves treatment that Trump gets.", ">\n\nI feel like Trump is about to get his shit kicked in here by Jack Smith in about a month or so when the indictments start coming", ">\n\nI feel like someone has said this every month for the last 6 years. The point is, Trump is untouchable. His angry mob would never succeed in overthrowing the government, but they would likely affect quarterly profits.", ">\n\nThis right here. Gotta keep the wolves fed or they might bite you. \nDomestic Terrorism discourages commerce. They’re fucking cowards.", ">\n\nHow's that Trump indictment coming?", ">\n\nThis is all I'm concerned about. Biden's situation I'm sure will work itself out, but Trump has most certainly committed crimes well beyond and before simply having classified documents. I'm not even saying Biden hasn't broken the law, and he should be dealt with accordingly, but Trump has been a national security hazard and criminal since long before classified documents were found and obstruction was clearly committed to shield them, and this Biden situation should, in no way, get in the way of that case, which seems long overdue.", ">\n\nWeird. I thought the DOJ didn’t want to investigate presidents.", ">\n\nWeird, I recall the DOJ investigating Trump while he was president. And Clinton.", ">\n\nI'm not confused about it. There's no policy against investigating presidents, which is why the numerous investigations into recent sitting presidents happened and were not against any policy. There is a policy against indicting them, though that's not legally binding in any way, just a stated approach that the Justice dept. has outlined in the past.", ">\n\nThe difference between Republicans and Dems is on display again. \nNo cults, no obstructing. Let the legal system do its thing.", ">\n\nSo... he can move fast??", ">\n\nThis proves that Garland is exquisitely sensitive to (Republican) public opinion, which proves to me that he will never indict Trump.", ">\n\nHe has stated many times that no person is above the law. This proves that he's practices what he preaches.", ">\n\nDoes it though? He holds D’s to the rule of law, but drags his feet with R’s.. all to try to seem impartial. He is not holding everyone to the same standard.", ">\n\nthis is a good move despite what wackos in this sub will say. the alternative would be jim jordan and the house intelligence committee running crazy conspiracy theories over this investigation. \nwith this special counsel it will at least be an actual legitimate investigation that will in all likelihood tamper the political effects for biden, as well as create a more legitimate nonpartisan line between this and the trump situation. it won't matter for republicans anyway, but the appearance of impropriety is good!\nobviously there's some hiccup in whatever processes for classified documents there are if they can be mixed in with other documents, put in places they aren't supposed to be, forgotten about, etc. and perhaps that can come to light as a result of both of these investigations and those processes can be revised to address these issues, whether intentionally mishandled or mishandled due to ignorance/an accident.", ">\n\n\nthe alternative would be jim jordan and the house intelligence committee running crazy conspiracy theories over this investigation. \n\ni don't think is an \"either or\" kind of situation. you'll still get jim's hot take of the day once they set up the committee.", ">\n\nsure but as far as document requests and the like it could make it more complicated for the house to go as apeshit as they would otherwise", ">\n\nNo it won't. Because they are not grounded in reality. Just watch.", ">\n\ni mean the law still exists lol", ">\n\nDoes it, though?", ">\n\nyes\ndo you think jim jordan can just walk over to DOJ and grab a bunch of documents and tell the DOJ to fuck off?", ">\n\nNo. But he can tell the House to fuck off when they subpoena him. And that subpoena is referred to the DOJ for enforcement, Merrick Garland can sit on it for weeks and then eventually decline to prosecute. Just like it happened with Meadows.", ">\n\nSure, sounds reasonable. Seems pretty likely somebody committed a crime. \nRemind me again why Garland took 20 extra months to take action when a Republican had documents like this?", ">\n\nMerrick Garland took two years to appoint a special counsel to Trump but he took 1 week to appoint a special counsel to Biden. Is he trying to please the Republican house or someone powerful is really trying hard that Biden don't run again. What an idiotic decision. He is giving fuel to republicans. Any normal person would understand that Biden administration is co-operating with the appropriate authority to resolve this matter. I am so disappointed at Merrick Garland.", ">\n\nSo the day after trump announced he was running he appointed a special counsel. The day after Biden (presumptive candidate) is being investigated, appoint a special counsel.... seems consistent.", ">\n\nI understand the frustration, however, what's the alternative choice? \nDemocrats should let immoral and unethical actions of their members? \nDoesn't it sound ridiculous to suggest being lawful and ethical is losing?\nWhat the democrats need to do is clean up their dependence on big donor moneys by making significant changes to the laws surrounding political campaigns. \nWhen Republican's don't vote for campaign reform, they should be examined carefully by journalists, then shamed for any corruption, and arrested for any crimes.", ">\n\nI like this comment; there is a core of truth and clearheaded observation within that would likely solve most things political, if we can just convince the first national politician to unlatch from the corporate money tit. Someone has to be the wind-dummy, the maverick, and it would certainly be someone with enough independent wealth to tell the corporations and lobbyists to kick rocks. Hell, if even the congressional leadership adopted this tactic, media pressure would steer the others. \nSounds very cool. Who’s first?", ">\n\nI don't know why everyone is making such a big deal about this. Obama declassified all of these documents on his last day in office. He didn't tell anyone, but since he thought it, they are declassified. You can't prove me wrong.", ">\n\nA complete outrage. It took Garland nearly TWO YEARS of begging Trump pretty please for his documents back AND a warrant before a Special Prosecutor could be assigned on Trump, but within two months, he’s out front and center appointing one on Biden? Fuck all Garland apologists.", ">\n\nBefore Trump announced his candidacy for 2024, Garland didn't need a special counsel. He could investigate him directly.", ">\n\n“Could”", ">\n\nwhy are you using quotes? he was and is currently being investigated lol", ">\n\nOh yeah two years and the Georgia election officials weren’t even subpoenaed until last north by Jack Smith. Tell me more of this mythical investigation you think Garland was doing.", ">\n\nso you think there was no investigation?", ">\n\nSure, as slow walked and as toothless as it could be", ">\n\nit's not finished lol", ">\n\nGArlANd NEedS MoRE TiME tO bUiLd A cASE", ">\n\nand what exactly are your qualifications for investigating and prosecuting someone in federal court for a potential violation of the espionage act/obstruction of justice?", ">\n\nTrump and Biden should both be investigated for illegally having classified documents, the more serious crimes are the lying and obstruction of justice. If you steal a cookie from the cookie jar that’s a “crime” but if you confess to you parents it’s not as bad as if you’re parents catch you and confront you and you lie and try to blame someone else or say they have no authority over cookies and tell them to f-off. Your parents won’t be happy about either situation but one is clearly exponentially worse.", ">\n\nI'm guessing that's the end for Biden re-election dreams. Thank God. Hopefully dems find someone willing to run in 24 that isn't kamala Harris.", ">\n\nI voted for Biden and I’m fine with this.", ">\n\nSame.", ">\n\nWonder if anyone will remember either of these cases in 2024", ">\n\nIt won't matter once the investigation concludes Biden didn't do anything criminal and everyone moves on to something else.\nWe were assured Afghanistan would put Republicans right back into power and that didn't happen. This will be no different.", ">\n\nSounds good. And if actual malicious intent is found, prosecute anybody involved. \nY'know, malicious intent like refusing to return the documents, altering some by hand, letting some of them go missing, lying about how many they have, and not cooperating with the DOJ.", ">\n\nThis is a great opportunity to show what cooperating with an investigation looks like so we can make direct comparisons to the orange shitgibbon and his posse of clown lawyers.", ">\n\nTo what end? You can't squeeze juice out of a rock, not even with a most special counsel. The GOP is not a party of reason. Just like HRC going before their Benghazi committee for 6 hours...did that stop them? Heck no!", ">\n\nThe public has such a false and skewed notion of \"fair and non partisan\" that moves like this are largely pointless. If the evidence is convincing, it doesnt fucking matter how you launch a trial.", ">\n\nSo Trump took almost two years to investigate and Biden takes a couple days. Is Garland a Republican by any chance?", ">\n\nJFC - I came here to say this.", ">\n\nGod it’s only the second week of 2023 and I’m already burned out", ">\n\nWell that was fast wtf are they doing about Trump?", ">\n\nWell that was fast!", ">\n\nCool there should be. Wish someone from the cult would expect the same if their messiah.", ">\n\nCool, sounds reasonable.", ">\n\nSeems normal. I imagine this will go significantly faster since Biden won’t block everything imaginable.", ">\n\ndoocy on fox news right now is the hardest he's been since Jen Psaki's last CBT session on national TV with him in the press core.", ">\n\nI'm a Democrat, voted for Biden. If he fucked up, he should face the consequences.", ">\n\nHe's always been a republican. Coward refuses to prosecute Trump." ]

[ "Do a complete investigation, gather the evidence, follow all procedures and the law, seek justice without fear or favor no matter who is involved. Figure this mess out.", ">\n\nFully agree - and I'd actually like the investigation to be concluded swiftly since the ones being investigated will likely be 100% cooperative. It's not like DoJ will have to be dealing with full on liars and criminals which takes forever to find the answers.", ">\n\nI 100% agree that there ought to be a reasonable investigation into this but I do have to wonder if any of this matters at all given that Biden is currently the president and therefore has not only the right to have classified information but also the ability to declassify that information.\nNot trying to make excuses for the oversight (or lack thereof) of classified documents, but it seems to me as though this requires an investigation into how classified documents are handled during and after individuals have been given such status and after said status has lapsed.\nLet's be perfectly honest, if they had taken different actions on the first set of documents, we likely wouldn't even know about this because there was nobody searching for them.\nHad Biden and his lawyers actually been seriously corrupt, they could easily have disposed of them in a fireplace or down a toilet and no one would know the better.\nThe fact that they brought this directly to the attention of the proper authorities is at least proof that they do have respect for the rule of law and are willing to except the consequences, even if it is going to be used to make political hay while the sun shines.\nThat said, this likely has huge implications for executive privilege, especially to the extent that the former president argued he had. I personally do not have a problem with the minister of th Office of the President being able to be held accountable for their actions but only if it is equally applied across the board and not just something that we will have to deal with when presidents from the Democratic party are being scrutinized.", ">\n\n\nhas not only the right to have classified information but also the ability to declassify that information.\n\nHe does. But apparently these docs were from his Vice Presidency under Obama. So, it's a bit uncertain.\nAnd it really undermines at least one of the central charges you could have lodged against Trump, that everyone that is able to access classified documents has a substantive responsibility to make sure they are handled appropriately. The \"oh, well, we had to leave in a hurry and things just got mixed up\" arguments Trump could have made before would have had little merit - especially when you consider previous historic cases where even a single doc mishandled ended up with someone in jail.\nBut now Trump will be able to dilute that charge completely. He's still fucked on obstruction and everything else (hopefully).", ">\n\nClassified != Compartmentalized, Top Secret, etc.", ">\n\nI agree with you, but I was recently informed that sources say some of these classified documents were classified Top Secret.\nIt does appear as though ABC is confirming that sources are saying that some of these were top secret documents.\n\nSources also told ABC News that the original batch of about 10 documents found in November contains classified vice-presidential briefing papers about foreign countries, some of which were marked top secret.\n\nAnd CNN is not even using the journalistic term source, going so far as to assert that some of these documents were top secret.\n\nSome of the classified documents were “top secret,” the highest level. They were found in three or four boxes that also contained unclassified papers that fall under the Presidential Records Act, CNN has reported.\n\nIf we are going to maintain Integrity about the treatment of top secret classified documents, it is important to hold both sides accountable for their retention of documents.\nThank goodness that Biden's lawyers were up front with the FBI and NARA rather than lying about the retention of documents and obstructing an investigation.\nI really hope that Biden doesn't try to use the executive privilege argument to keep himself from investigation, but this is likely going to be a permanent stain on his reputation and definitely opens up the presidential field in the Democratic Party for 2024.", ">\n\nWhy would this be a permanent stain on Biden’s reputation?", ">\n\nBecause it will 100% be used along with whataboutism to suggest that Biden was going after Trump for the same thing that he was caught doing, regardless of the fact that Biden was not responsible for the investigation into Trump's documents has not been outspoken about the retention of documents, subsequent Lies by his lawyers, and obstruction.\nI'm not saying that it is going to be fair, or even rational but it is going to cause a stain and that will be used to pillory him.", ">\n\nSo in essence, this is only going to be a stain in the minds of people who are rather brainless to begin with….gotcha", ">\n\nIts a stain because it's political ammunition for the other side, not because you or I see it for the opportunitistically timed political assault that it seems to be. In modern politics, being on the defensive is the same as losing. Hillary Clinton's email fiasco likely contributed to the 2016 election results even though she wasn't indicted for a crime.\nThe people on the other side of the political spectrum who would consider this whole fiasco a stain on Biden AREN'T brainless, they're heavily propogandized, and they DO vote. This whole thing will be used to justify any or all of Trump's conduct that should be immediately disqualifying. Expect this to be split-screened with all of Trump's legal woes.\nHopefully Trump won't make it to the 2024 Election season as a viable candidate. If Trump does make it, Trump will use this against Biden. If Trump loses out to someone like DeSantis, there will be a concerted effort to crucify Biden with it.", ">\n\nMy favorite part of this:\nNo raging tweets from the president making up executive powers. Accusing people of planting evidence and arguing about a deep state conspiracy against him.", ">\n\nI’d be hilarious if he copy pasted one of trumps tweets and ended it with JK I’m not a raving lunatic in a middle of a tantrum.", ">\n\nThat would be some great dark Brandon shit.", ">\n\nI am all for a special counsel being appointed. But a Trump appointee feels like an attempt by Garland to bend over backwards to show just how apolitical he is. If he wanted to reach across the aisle, he couldn’t find a Bush appointee rather than someone appointed by a man who literally tried to upend the Republic and is known for appointing partisan hacks?", ">\n\nThis is how Garland has been acting since appointed. It’s like he’s so terrified of being perceived as biased against repubs that he instead acts biased against dems. He has truly been a failure at AG.. even more of a letdown than Mueller", ">\n\nWell, Garland is a conservative….. people think that he must be left wing because Obama nominated him for SCOTUS. NOPE! - he’s right wing and Obama was throwing the GOP a bone. The GOP just hated Obama so fucking much they slapped down a nominee that aligned with them.", ">\n\nTrue, Biden should have appointed someone else", ">\n\nOnly took a year and a half to appoint one for Trump. Also what about that DOJ policy about not investigating and prosecuting a sitting president which protected the former guy for, what, six years now?", ">\n\nGarland is not our friend.", ">\n\nWho’s friend, exactly? What does friendship have to do with accountability to rules and laws?\nAre you suggesting the DOJ should be aligned and friendly with one particular party or another and so they don’t have to follow rules and laws we expect others to comply with?", ">\n\nGarland is not a friend to justice.\nWhy has Trump not been indicted yet? What's the confusion?", ">\n\n\nWhy has Trump not been indicted yet?\n\nwhy would you expect him to have been? the investigation isn't over yet", ">\n\nit explains why they weren't indicted in the article", ">\n\nSome anonymous lawyer being quoted by CNN is not a definitive explanation at all. It's hearsay and well-meaning bullshit. But when the DOJ was asked? \"A spokesperson for the Department of Justice declined to comment.\" But if you do believe that anonymous source, do you really think they have executive privilege, as your source says? How TF do \"advisors\" get privilege?", ">\n\nthey worked in the White House", ">\n\nBad enough that everyone bought that crap, \"The president is immune to criminal prosecution and subpoenas.\" But now we're going to extend it to anyone who worked in the White House?! Holy cow you can't possibly believe that's a good idea.", ">\n\nAs. We. Would. Expect. 🤷‍♂️ \nCan't wait until Biden whines, makes excuses, tries to get a special master, claims that they where declassifi...... Oh wait. Dems don't do any of that.", ">\n\nIt doesn’t even matter cause republicans don’t care about mishandling classified document- oh wait…now they do.", ">\n\nAs a Democrat I am pretty pissed off at Biden for this, but I would be willing to bet he didn't know the documents were there. \nThat said, I am a strong believer in people being punished for breaking the law, even if they are on my \"team.\"\nIf he broke the law, punish him. \nJust make sure that that miserable, racist orange thing that yells all the time gets his as well.\nThis is the only way to have nice things.", ">\n\nBiden isn't asking for a special grand master or looking for a favorable court... weird.", ">\n\nLove how it took 2 years to do this for trump, and he ain't even president, 2 days for Biden and he is president. \nTo be clear, I'm not saying there shouldn't be an investigation, I'm saying Garland is showing his true colors pretty strongly with the disparity.\nEdit: I'm muting this thread, not trying to get banned for cussing some fool out again. Have a good night y'all.", ">\n\nThe difference will always be that most democrats are just fine with an investigation. Because they care about good governance instead of personality cults.", ">\n\nYeah, it's like Goofus and Gallant. Except Goofus wins every other election and beats your head in with a bat.", ">\n\nWeird how Garland can move with lightning speed when it’s a cover-your-ass political move. Lightning speed.", ">\n\nFucking ridiculous the kid-gloves treatment that Trump gets.", ">\n\nI feel like Trump is about to get his shit kicked in here by Jack Smith in about a month or so when the indictments start coming", ">\n\nI feel like someone has said this every month for the last 6 years. The point is, Trump is untouchable. His angry mob would never succeed in overthrowing the government, but they would likely affect quarterly profits.", ">\n\nThis right here. Gotta keep the wolves fed or they might bite you. \nDomestic Terrorism discourages commerce. They’re fucking cowards.", ">\n\nHow's that Trump indictment coming?", ">\n\nThis is all I'm concerned about. Biden's situation I'm sure will work itself out, but Trump has most certainly committed crimes well beyond and before simply having classified documents. I'm not even saying Biden hasn't broken the law, and he should be dealt with accordingly, but Trump has been a national security hazard and criminal since long before classified documents were found and obstruction was clearly committed to shield them, and this Biden situation should, in no way, get in the way of that case, which seems long overdue.", ">\n\nWeird. I thought the DOJ didn’t want to investigate presidents.", ">\n\nWeird, I recall the DOJ investigating Trump while he was president. And Clinton.", ">\n\nI'm not confused about it. There's no policy against investigating presidents, which is why the numerous investigations into recent sitting presidents happened and were not against any policy. There is a policy against indicting them, though that's not legally binding in any way, just a stated approach that the Justice dept. has outlined in the past.", ">\n\nThe difference between Republicans and Dems is on display again. \nNo cults, no obstructing. Let the legal system do its thing.", ">\n\nSo... he can move fast??", ">\n\nThis proves that Garland is exquisitely sensitive to (Republican) public opinion, which proves to me that he will never indict Trump.", ">\n\nHe has stated many times that no person is above the law. This proves that he's practices what he preaches.", ">\n\nDoes it though? He holds D’s to the rule of law, but drags his feet with R’s.. all to try to seem impartial. He is not holding everyone to the same standard.", ">\n\nthis is a good move despite what wackos in this sub will say. the alternative would be jim jordan and the house intelligence committee running crazy conspiracy theories over this investigation. \nwith this special counsel it will at least be an actual legitimate investigation that will in all likelihood tamper the political effects for biden, as well as create a more legitimate nonpartisan line between this and the trump situation. it won't matter for republicans anyway, but the appearance of impropriety is good!\nobviously there's some hiccup in whatever processes for classified documents there are if they can be mixed in with other documents, put in places they aren't supposed to be, forgotten about, etc. and perhaps that can come to light as a result of both of these investigations and those processes can be revised to address these issues, whether intentionally mishandled or mishandled due to ignorance/an accident.", ">\n\n\nthe alternative would be jim jordan and the house intelligence committee running crazy conspiracy theories over this investigation. \n\ni don't think is an \"either or\" kind of situation. you'll still get jim's hot take of the day once they set up the committee.", ">\n\nsure but as far as document requests and the like it could make it more complicated for the house to go as apeshit as they would otherwise", ">\n\nNo it won't. Because they are not grounded in reality. Just watch.", ">\n\ni mean the law still exists lol", ">\n\nDoes it, though?", ">\n\nyes\ndo you think jim jordan can just walk over to DOJ and grab a bunch of documents and tell the DOJ to fuck off?", ">\n\nNo. But he can tell the House to fuck off when they subpoena him. And that subpoena is referred to the DOJ for enforcement, Merrick Garland can sit on it for weeks and then eventually decline to prosecute. Just like it happened with Meadows.", ">\n\nSure, sounds reasonable. Seems pretty likely somebody committed a crime. \nRemind me again why Garland took 20 extra months to take action when a Republican had documents like this?", ">\n\nMerrick Garland took two years to appoint a special counsel to Trump but he took 1 week to appoint a special counsel to Biden. Is he trying to please the Republican house or someone powerful is really trying hard that Biden don't run again. What an idiotic decision. He is giving fuel to republicans. Any normal person would understand that Biden administration is co-operating with the appropriate authority to resolve this matter. I am so disappointed at Merrick Garland.", ">\n\nSo the day after trump announced he was running he appointed a special counsel. The day after Biden (presumptive candidate) is being investigated, appoint a special counsel.... seems consistent.", ">\n\nI understand the frustration, however, what's the alternative choice? \nDemocrats should let immoral and unethical actions of their members? \nDoesn't it sound ridiculous to suggest being lawful and ethical is losing?\nWhat the democrats need to do is clean up their dependence on big donor moneys by making significant changes to the laws surrounding political campaigns. \nWhen Republican's don't vote for campaign reform, they should be examined carefully by journalists, then shamed for any corruption, and arrested for any crimes.", ">\n\nI like this comment; there is a core of truth and clearheaded observation within that would likely solve most things political, if we can just convince the first national politician to unlatch from the corporate money tit. Someone has to be the wind-dummy, the maverick, and it would certainly be someone with enough independent wealth to tell the corporations and lobbyists to kick rocks. Hell, if even the congressional leadership adopted this tactic, media pressure would steer the others. \nSounds very cool. Who’s first?", ">\n\nI don't know why everyone is making such a big deal about this. Obama declassified all of these documents on his last day in office. He didn't tell anyone, but since he thought it, they are declassified. You can't prove me wrong.", ">\n\nA complete outrage. It took Garland nearly TWO YEARS of begging Trump pretty please for his documents back AND a warrant before a Special Prosecutor could be assigned on Trump, but within two months, he’s out front and center appointing one on Biden? Fuck all Garland apologists.", ">\n\nBefore Trump announced his candidacy for 2024, Garland didn't need a special counsel. He could investigate him directly.", ">\n\n“Could”", ">\n\nwhy are you using quotes? he was and is currently being investigated lol", ">\n\nOh yeah two years and the Georgia election officials weren’t even subpoenaed until last north by Jack Smith. Tell me more of this mythical investigation you think Garland was doing.", ">\n\nso you think there was no investigation?", ">\n\nSure, as slow walked and as toothless as it could be", ">\n\nit's not finished lol", ">\n\nGArlANd NEedS MoRE TiME tO bUiLd A cASE", ">\n\nand what exactly are your qualifications for investigating and prosecuting someone in federal court for a potential violation of the espionage act/obstruction of justice?", ">\n\nTrump and Biden should both be investigated for illegally having classified documents, the more serious crimes are the lying and obstruction of justice. If you steal a cookie from the cookie jar that’s a “crime” but if you confess to you parents it’s not as bad as if you’re parents catch you and confront you and you lie and try to blame someone else or say they have no authority over cookies and tell them to f-off. Your parents won’t be happy about either situation but one is clearly exponentially worse.", ">\n\nI'm guessing that's the end for Biden re-election dreams. Thank God. Hopefully dems find someone willing to run in 24 that isn't kamala Harris.", ">\n\nI voted for Biden and I’m fine with this.", ">\n\nSame.", ">\n\nWonder if anyone will remember either of these cases in 2024", ">\n\nIt won't matter once the investigation concludes Biden didn't do anything criminal and everyone moves on to something else.\nWe were assured Afghanistan would put Republicans right back into power and that didn't happen. This will be no different.", ">\n\nSounds good. And if actual malicious intent is found, prosecute anybody involved. \nY'know, malicious intent like refusing to return the documents, altering some by hand, letting some of them go missing, lying about how many they have, and not cooperating with the DOJ.", ">\n\nThis is a great opportunity to show what cooperating with an investigation looks like so we can make direct comparisons to the orange shitgibbon and his posse of clown lawyers.", ">\n\nTo what end? You can't squeeze juice out of a rock, not even with a most special counsel. The GOP is not a party of reason. Just like HRC going before their Benghazi committee for 6 hours...did that stop them? Heck no!", ">\n\nThe public has such a false and skewed notion of \"fair and non partisan\" that moves like this are largely pointless. If the evidence is convincing, it doesnt fucking matter how you launch a trial.", ">\n\nSo Trump took almost two years to investigate and Biden takes a couple days. Is Garland a Republican by any chance?", ">\n\nJFC - I came here to say this.", ">\n\nGod it’s only the second week of 2023 and I’m already burned out", ">\n\nWell that was fast wtf are they doing about Trump?", ">\n\nWell that was fast!", ">\n\nCool there should be. Wish someone from the cult would expect the same if their messiah.", ">\n\nCool, sounds reasonable.", ">\n\nSeems normal. I imagine this will go significantly faster since Biden won’t block everything imaginable.", ">\n\ndoocy on fox news right now is the hardest he's been since Jen Psaki's last CBT session on national TV with him in the press core.", ">\n\nI'm a Democrat, voted for Biden. If he fucked up, he should face the consequences.", ">\n\nHe's always been a republican. Coward refuses to prosecute Trump.", ">\n\nGood. This is how it should be." ]

[ "Do a complete investigation, gather the evidence, follow all procedures and the law, seek justice without fear or favor no matter who is involved. Figure this mess out.", ">\n\nFully agree - and I'd actually like the investigation to be concluded swiftly since the ones being investigated will likely be 100% cooperative. It's not like DoJ will have to be dealing with full on liars and criminals which takes forever to find the answers.", ">\n\nI 100% agree that there ought to be a reasonable investigation into this but I do have to wonder if any of this matters at all given that Biden is currently the president and therefore has not only the right to have classified information but also the ability to declassify that information.\nNot trying to make excuses for the oversight (or lack thereof) of classified documents, but it seems to me as though this requires an investigation into how classified documents are handled during and after individuals have been given such status and after said status has lapsed.\nLet's be perfectly honest, if they had taken different actions on the first set of documents, we likely wouldn't even know about this because there was nobody searching for them.\nHad Biden and his lawyers actually been seriously corrupt, they could easily have disposed of them in a fireplace or down a toilet and no one would know the better.\nThe fact that they brought this directly to the attention of the proper authorities is at least proof that they do have respect for the rule of law and are willing to except the consequences, even if it is going to be used to make political hay while the sun shines.\nThat said, this likely has huge implications for executive privilege, especially to the extent that the former president argued he had. I personally do not have a problem with the minister of th Office of the President being able to be held accountable for their actions but only if it is equally applied across the board and not just something that we will have to deal with when presidents from the Democratic party are being scrutinized.", ">\n\n\nhas not only the right to have classified information but also the ability to declassify that information.\n\nHe does. But apparently these docs were from his Vice Presidency under Obama. So, it's a bit uncertain.\nAnd it really undermines at least one of the central charges you could have lodged against Trump, that everyone that is able to access classified documents has a substantive responsibility to make sure they are handled appropriately. The \"oh, well, we had to leave in a hurry and things just got mixed up\" arguments Trump could have made before would have had little merit - especially when you consider previous historic cases where even a single doc mishandled ended up with someone in jail.\nBut now Trump will be able to dilute that charge completely. He's still fucked on obstruction and everything else (hopefully).", ">\n\nClassified != Compartmentalized, Top Secret, etc.", ">\n\nI agree with you, but I was recently informed that sources say some of these classified documents were classified Top Secret.\nIt does appear as though ABC is confirming that sources are saying that some of these were top secret documents.\n\nSources also told ABC News that the original batch of about 10 documents found in November contains classified vice-presidential briefing papers about foreign countries, some of which were marked top secret.\n\nAnd CNN is not even using the journalistic term source, going so far as to assert that some of these documents were top secret.\n\nSome of the classified documents were “top secret,” the highest level. They were found in three or four boxes that also contained unclassified papers that fall under the Presidential Records Act, CNN has reported.\n\nIf we are going to maintain Integrity about the treatment of top secret classified documents, it is important to hold both sides accountable for their retention of documents.\nThank goodness that Biden's lawyers were up front with the FBI and NARA rather than lying about the retention of documents and obstructing an investigation.\nI really hope that Biden doesn't try to use the executive privilege argument to keep himself from investigation, but this is likely going to be a permanent stain on his reputation and definitely opens up the presidential field in the Democratic Party for 2024.", ">\n\nWhy would this be a permanent stain on Biden’s reputation?", ">\n\nBecause it will 100% be used along with whataboutism to suggest that Biden was going after Trump for the same thing that he was caught doing, regardless of the fact that Biden was not responsible for the investigation into Trump's documents has not been outspoken about the retention of documents, subsequent Lies by his lawyers, and obstruction.\nI'm not saying that it is going to be fair, or even rational but it is going to cause a stain and that will be used to pillory him.", ">\n\nSo in essence, this is only going to be a stain in the minds of people who are rather brainless to begin with….gotcha", ">\n\nIts a stain because it's political ammunition for the other side, not because you or I see it for the opportunitistically timed political assault that it seems to be. In modern politics, being on the defensive is the same as losing. Hillary Clinton's email fiasco likely contributed to the 2016 election results even though she wasn't indicted for a crime.\nThe people on the other side of the political spectrum who would consider this whole fiasco a stain on Biden AREN'T brainless, they're heavily propogandized, and they DO vote. This whole thing will be used to justify any or all of Trump's conduct that should be immediately disqualifying. Expect this to be split-screened with all of Trump's legal woes.\nHopefully Trump won't make it to the 2024 Election season as a viable candidate. If Trump does make it, Trump will use this against Biden. If Trump loses out to someone like DeSantis, there will be a concerted effort to crucify Biden with it.", ">\n\nMy favorite part of this:\nNo raging tweets from the president making up executive powers. Accusing people of planting evidence and arguing about a deep state conspiracy against him.", ">\n\nI’d be hilarious if he copy pasted one of trumps tweets and ended it with JK I’m not a raving lunatic in a middle of a tantrum.", ">\n\nThat would be some great dark Brandon shit.", ">\n\nI am all for a special counsel being appointed. But a Trump appointee feels like an attempt by Garland to bend over backwards to show just how apolitical he is. If he wanted to reach across the aisle, he couldn’t find a Bush appointee rather than someone appointed by a man who literally tried to upend the Republic and is known for appointing partisan hacks?", ">\n\nThis is how Garland has been acting since appointed. It’s like he’s so terrified of being perceived as biased against repubs that he instead acts biased against dems. He has truly been a failure at AG.. even more of a letdown than Mueller", ">\n\nWell, Garland is a conservative….. people think that he must be left wing because Obama nominated him for SCOTUS. NOPE! - he’s right wing and Obama was throwing the GOP a bone. The GOP just hated Obama so fucking much they slapped down a nominee that aligned with them.", ">\n\nTrue, Biden should have appointed someone else", ">\n\nOnly took a year and a half to appoint one for Trump. Also what about that DOJ policy about not investigating and prosecuting a sitting president which protected the former guy for, what, six years now?", ">\n\nGarland is not our friend.", ">\n\nWho’s friend, exactly? What does friendship have to do with accountability to rules and laws?\nAre you suggesting the DOJ should be aligned and friendly with one particular party or another and so they don’t have to follow rules and laws we expect others to comply with?", ">\n\nGarland is not a friend to justice.\nWhy has Trump not been indicted yet? What's the confusion?", ">\n\n\nWhy has Trump not been indicted yet?\n\nwhy would you expect him to have been? the investigation isn't over yet", ">\n\nit explains why they weren't indicted in the article", ">\n\nSome anonymous lawyer being quoted by CNN is not a definitive explanation at all. It's hearsay and well-meaning bullshit. But when the DOJ was asked? \"A spokesperson for the Department of Justice declined to comment.\" But if you do believe that anonymous source, do you really think they have executive privilege, as your source says? How TF do \"advisors\" get privilege?", ">\n\nthey worked in the White House", ">\n\nBad enough that everyone bought that crap, \"The president is immune to criminal prosecution and subpoenas.\" But now we're going to extend it to anyone who worked in the White House?! Holy cow you can't possibly believe that's a good idea.", ">\n\nAs. We. Would. Expect. 🤷‍♂️ \nCan't wait until Biden whines, makes excuses, tries to get a special master, claims that they where declassifi...... Oh wait. Dems don't do any of that.", ">\n\nIt doesn’t even matter cause republicans don’t care about mishandling classified document- oh wait…now they do.", ">\n\nAs a Democrat I am pretty pissed off at Biden for this, but I would be willing to bet he didn't know the documents were there. \nThat said, I am a strong believer in people being punished for breaking the law, even if they are on my \"team.\"\nIf he broke the law, punish him. \nJust make sure that that miserable, racist orange thing that yells all the time gets his as well.\nThis is the only way to have nice things.", ">\n\nBiden isn't asking for a special grand master or looking for a favorable court... weird.", ">\n\nLove how it took 2 years to do this for trump, and he ain't even president, 2 days for Biden and he is president. \nTo be clear, I'm not saying there shouldn't be an investigation, I'm saying Garland is showing his true colors pretty strongly with the disparity.\nEdit: I'm muting this thread, not trying to get banned for cussing some fool out again. Have a good night y'all.", ">\n\nThe difference will always be that most democrats are just fine with an investigation. Because they care about good governance instead of personality cults.", ">\n\nYeah, it's like Goofus and Gallant. Except Goofus wins every other election and beats your head in with a bat.", ">\n\nWeird how Garland can move with lightning speed when it’s a cover-your-ass political move. Lightning speed.", ">\n\nFucking ridiculous the kid-gloves treatment that Trump gets.", ">\n\nI feel like Trump is about to get his shit kicked in here by Jack Smith in about a month or so when the indictments start coming", ">\n\nI feel like someone has said this every month for the last 6 years. The point is, Trump is untouchable. His angry mob would never succeed in overthrowing the government, but they would likely affect quarterly profits.", ">\n\nThis right here. Gotta keep the wolves fed or they might bite you. \nDomestic Terrorism discourages commerce. They’re fucking cowards.", ">\n\nHow's that Trump indictment coming?", ">\n\nThis is all I'm concerned about. Biden's situation I'm sure will work itself out, but Trump has most certainly committed crimes well beyond and before simply having classified documents. I'm not even saying Biden hasn't broken the law, and he should be dealt with accordingly, but Trump has been a national security hazard and criminal since long before classified documents were found and obstruction was clearly committed to shield them, and this Biden situation should, in no way, get in the way of that case, which seems long overdue.", ">\n\nWeird. I thought the DOJ didn’t want to investigate presidents.", ">\n\nWeird, I recall the DOJ investigating Trump while he was president. And Clinton.", ">\n\nI'm not confused about it. There's no policy against investigating presidents, which is why the numerous investigations into recent sitting presidents happened and were not against any policy. There is a policy against indicting them, though that's not legally binding in any way, just a stated approach that the Justice dept. has outlined in the past.", ">\n\nThe difference between Republicans and Dems is on display again. \nNo cults, no obstructing. Let the legal system do its thing.", ">\n\nSo... he can move fast??", ">\n\nThis proves that Garland is exquisitely sensitive to (Republican) public opinion, which proves to me that he will never indict Trump.", ">\n\nHe has stated many times that no person is above the law. This proves that he's practices what he preaches.", ">\n\nDoes it though? He holds D’s to the rule of law, but drags his feet with R’s.. all to try to seem impartial. He is not holding everyone to the same standard.", ">\n\nthis is a good move despite what wackos in this sub will say. the alternative would be jim jordan and the house intelligence committee running crazy conspiracy theories over this investigation. \nwith this special counsel it will at least be an actual legitimate investigation that will in all likelihood tamper the political effects for biden, as well as create a more legitimate nonpartisan line between this and the trump situation. it won't matter for republicans anyway, but the appearance of impropriety is good!\nobviously there's some hiccup in whatever processes for classified documents there are if they can be mixed in with other documents, put in places they aren't supposed to be, forgotten about, etc. and perhaps that can come to light as a result of both of these investigations and those processes can be revised to address these issues, whether intentionally mishandled or mishandled due to ignorance/an accident.", ">\n\n\nthe alternative would be jim jordan and the house intelligence committee running crazy conspiracy theories over this investigation. \n\ni don't think is an \"either or\" kind of situation. you'll still get jim's hot take of the day once they set up the committee.", ">\n\nsure but as far as document requests and the like it could make it more complicated for the house to go as apeshit as they would otherwise", ">\n\nNo it won't. Because they are not grounded in reality. Just watch.", ">\n\ni mean the law still exists lol", ">\n\nDoes it, though?", ">\n\nyes\ndo you think jim jordan can just walk over to DOJ and grab a bunch of documents and tell the DOJ to fuck off?", ">\n\nNo. But he can tell the House to fuck off when they subpoena him. And that subpoena is referred to the DOJ for enforcement, Merrick Garland can sit on it for weeks and then eventually decline to prosecute. Just like it happened with Meadows.", ">\n\nSure, sounds reasonable. Seems pretty likely somebody committed a crime. \nRemind me again why Garland took 20 extra months to take action when a Republican had documents like this?", ">\n\nMerrick Garland took two years to appoint a special counsel to Trump but he took 1 week to appoint a special counsel to Biden. Is he trying to please the Republican house or someone powerful is really trying hard that Biden don't run again. What an idiotic decision. He is giving fuel to republicans. Any normal person would understand that Biden administration is co-operating with the appropriate authority to resolve this matter. I am so disappointed at Merrick Garland.", ">\n\nSo the day after trump announced he was running he appointed a special counsel. The day after Biden (presumptive candidate) is being investigated, appoint a special counsel.... seems consistent.", ">\n\nI understand the frustration, however, what's the alternative choice? \nDemocrats should let immoral and unethical actions of their members? \nDoesn't it sound ridiculous to suggest being lawful and ethical is losing?\nWhat the democrats need to do is clean up their dependence on big donor moneys by making significant changes to the laws surrounding political campaigns. \nWhen Republican's don't vote for campaign reform, they should be examined carefully by journalists, then shamed for any corruption, and arrested for any crimes.", ">\n\nI like this comment; there is a core of truth and clearheaded observation within that would likely solve most things political, if we can just convince the first national politician to unlatch from the corporate money tit. Someone has to be the wind-dummy, the maverick, and it would certainly be someone with enough independent wealth to tell the corporations and lobbyists to kick rocks. Hell, if even the congressional leadership adopted this tactic, media pressure would steer the others. \nSounds very cool. Who’s first?", ">\n\nI don't know why everyone is making such a big deal about this. Obama declassified all of these documents on his last day in office. He didn't tell anyone, but since he thought it, they are declassified. You can't prove me wrong.", ">\n\nA complete outrage. It took Garland nearly TWO YEARS of begging Trump pretty please for his documents back AND a warrant before a Special Prosecutor could be assigned on Trump, but within two months, he’s out front and center appointing one on Biden? Fuck all Garland apologists.", ">\n\nBefore Trump announced his candidacy for 2024, Garland didn't need a special counsel. He could investigate him directly.", ">\n\n“Could”", ">\n\nwhy are you using quotes? he was and is currently being investigated lol", ">\n\nOh yeah two years and the Georgia election officials weren’t even subpoenaed until last north by Jack Smith. Tell me more of this mythical investigation you think Garland was doing.", ">\n\nso you think there was no investigation?", ">\n\nSure, as slow walked and as toothless as it could be", ">\n\nit's not finished lol", ">\n\nGArlANd NEedS MoRE TiME tO bUiLd A cASE", ">\n\nand what exactly are your qualifications for investigating and prosecuting someone in federal court for a potential violation of the espionage act/obstruction of justice?", ">\n\nTrump and Biden should both be investigated for illegally having classified documents, the more serious crimes are the lying and obstruction of justice. If you steal a cookie from the cookie jar that’s a “crime” but if you confess to you parents it’s not as bad as if you’re parents catch you and confront you and you lie and try to blame someone else or say they have no authority over cookies and tell them to f-off. Your parents won’t be happy about either situation but one is clearly exponentially worse.", ">\n\nI'm guessing that's the end for Biden re-election dreams. Thank God. Hopefully dems find someone willing to run in 24 that isn't kamala Harris.", ">\n\nI voted for Biden and I’m fine with this.", ">\n\nSame.", ">\n\nWonder if anyone will remember either of these cases in 2024", ">\n\nIt won't matter once the investigation concludes Biden didn't do anything criminal and everyone moves on to something else.\nWe were assured Afghanistan would put Republicans right back into power and that didn't happen. This will be no different.", ">\n\nSounds good. And if actual malicious intent is found, prosecute anybody involved. \nY'know, malicious intent like refusing to return the documents, altering some by hand, letting some of them go missing, lying about how many they have, and not cooperating with the DOJ.", ">\n\nThis is a great opportunity to show what cooperating with an investigation looks like so we can make direct comparisons to the orange shitgibbon and his posse of clown lawyers.", ">\n\nTo what end? You can't squeeze juice out of a rock, not even with a most special counsel. The GOP is not a party of reason. Just like HRC going before their Benghazi committee for 6 hours...did that stop them? Heck no!", ">\n\nThe public has such a false and skewed notion of \"fair and non partisan\" that moves like this are largely pointless. If the evidence is convincing, it doesnt fucking matter how you launch a trial.", ">\n\nSo Trump took almost two years to investigate and Biden takes a couple days. Is Garland a Republican by any chance?", ">\n\nJFC - I came here to say this.", ">\n\nGod it’s only the second week of 2023 and I’m already burned out", ">\n\nWell that was fast wtf are they doing about Trump?", ">\n\nWell that was fast!", ">\n\nCool there should be. Wish someone from the cult would expect the same if their messiah.", ">\n\nCool, sounds reasonable.", ">\n\nSeems normal. I imagine this will go significantly faster since Biden won’t block everything imaginable.", ">\n\ndoocy on fox news right now is the hardest he's been since Jen Psaki's last CBT session on national TV with him in the press core.", ">\n\nI'm a Democrat, voted for Biden. If he fucked up, he should face the consequences.", ">\n\nHe's always been a republican. Coward refuses to prosecute Trump.", ">\n\nGood. This is how it should be.", ">\n\nCorrupt Garland took his ass time to investigate Trump, even go as far as shielding him against all investigations, but was quite quick to jump on the Biden files. Spineless corrupt Republicans." ]

[ "Do a complete investigation, gather the evidence, follow all procedures and the law, seek justice without fear or favor no matter who is involved. Figure this mess out.", ">\n\nFully agree - and I'd actually like the investigation to be concluded swiftly since the ones being investigated will likely be 100% cooperative. It's not like DoJ will have to be dealing with full on liars and criminals which takes forever to find the answers.", ">\n\nI 100% agree that there ought to be a reasonable investigation into this but I do have to wonder if any of this matters at all given that Biden is currently the president and therefore has not only the right to have classified information but also the ability to declassify that information.\nNot trying to make excuses for the oversight (or lack thereof) of classified documents, but it seems to me as though this requires an investigation into how classified documents are handled during and after individuals have been given such status and after said status has lapsed.\nLet's be perfectly honest, if they had taken different actions on the first set of documents, we likely wouldn't even know about this because there was nobody searching for them.\nHad Biden and his lawyers actually been seriously corrupt, they could easily have disposed of them in a fireplace or down a toilet and no one would know the better.\nThe fact that they brought this directly to the attention of the proper authorities is at least proof that they do have respect for the rule of law and are willing to except the consequences, even if it is going to be used to make political hay while the sun shines.\nThat said, this likely has huge implications for executive privilege, especially to the extent that the former president argued he had. I personally do not have a problem with the minister of th Office of the President being able to be held accountable for their actions but only if it is equally applied across the board and not just something that we will have to deal with when presidents from the Democratic party are being scrutinized.", ">\n\n\nhas not only the right to have classified information but also the ability to declassify that information.\n\nHe does. But apparently these docs were from his Vice Presidency under Obama. So, it's a bit uncertain.\nAnd it really undermines at least one of the central charges you could have lodged against Trump, that everyone that is able to access classified documents has a substantive responsibility to make sure they are handled appropriately. The \"oh, well, we had to leave in a hurry and things just got mixed up\" arguments Trump could have made before would have had little merit - especially when you consider previous historic cases where even a single doc mishandled ended up with someone in jail.\nBut now Trump will be able to dilute that charge completely. He's still fucked on obstruction and everything else (hopefully).", ">\n\nClassified != Compartmentalized, Top Secret, etc.", ">\n\nI agree with you, but I was recently informed that sources say some of these classified documents were classified Top Secret.\nIt does appear as though ABC is confirming that sources are saying that some of these were top secret documents.\n\nSources also told ABC News that the original batch of about 10 documents found in November contains classified vice-presidential briefing papers about foreign countries, some of which were marked top secret.\n\nAnd CNN is not even using the journalistic term source, going so far as to assert that some of these documents were top secret.\n\nSome of the classified documents were “top secret,” the highest level. They were found in three or four boxes that also contained unclassified papers that fall under the Presidential Records Act, CNN has reported.\n\nIf we are going to maintain Integrity about the treatment of top secret classified documents, it is important to hold both sides accountable for their retention of documents.\nThank goodness that Biden's lawyers were up front with the FBI and NARA rather than lying about the retention of documents and obstructing an investigation.\nI really hope that Biden doesn't try to use the executive privilege argument to keep himself from investigation, but this is likely going to be a permanent stain on his reputation and definitely opens up the presidential field in the Democratic Party for 2024.", ">\n\nWhy would this be a permanent stain on Biden’s reputation?", ">\n\nBecause it will 100% be used along with whataboutism to suggest that Biden was going after Trump for the same thing that he was caught doing, regardless of the fact that Biden was not responsible for the investigation into Trump's documents has not been outspoken about the retention of documents, subsequent Lies by his lawyers, and obstruction.\nI'm not saying that it is going to be fair, or even rational but it is going to cause a stain and that will be used to pillory him.", ">\n\nSo in essence, this is only going to be a stain in the minds of people who are rather brainless to begin with….gotcha", ">\n\nIts a stain because it's political ammunition for the other side, not because you or I see it for the opportunitistically timed political assault that it seems to be. In modern politics, being on the defensive is the same as losing. Hillary Clinton's email fiasco likely contributed to the 2016 election results even though she wasn't indicted for a crime.\nThe people on the other side of the political spectrum who would consider this whole fiasco a stain on Biden AREN'T brainless, they're heavily propogandized, and they DO vote. This whole thing will be used to justify any or all of Trump's conduct that should be immediately disqualifying. Expect this to be split-screened with all of Trump's legal woes.\nHopefully Trump won't make it to the 2024 Election season as a viable candidate. If Trump does make it, Trump will use this against Biden. If Trump loses out to someone like DeSantis, there will be a concerted effort to crucify Biden with it.", ">\n\nMy favorite part of this:\nNo raging tweets from the president making up executive powers. Accusing people of planting evidence and arguing about a deep state conspiracy against him.", ">\n\nI’d be hilarious if he copy pasted one of trumps tweets and ended it with JK I’m not a raving lunatic in a middle of a tantrum.", ">\n\nThat would be some great dark Brandon shit.", ">\n\nI am all for a special counsel being appointed. But a Trump appointee feels like an attempt by Garland to bend over backwards to show just how apolitical he is. If he wanted to reach across the aisle, he couldn’t find a Bush appointee rather than someone appointed by a man who literally tried to upend the Republic and is known for appointing partisan hacks?", ">\n\nThis is how Garland has been acting since appointed. It’s like he’s so terrified of being perceived as biased against repubs that he instead acts biased against dems. He has truly been a failure at AG.. even more of a letdown than Mueller", ">\n\nWell, Garland is a conservative….. people think that he must be left wing because Obama nominated him for SCOTUS. NOPE! - he’s right wing and Obama was throwing the GOP a bone. The GOP just hated Obama so fucking much they slapped down a nominee that aligned with them.", ">\n\nTrue, Biden should have appointed someone else", ">\n\nOnly took a year and a half to appoint one for Trump. Also what about that DOJ policy about not investigating and prosecuting a sitting president which protected the former guy for, what, six years now?", ">\n\nGarland is not our friend.", ">\n\nWho’s friend, exactly? What does friendship have to do with accountability to rules and laws?\nAre you suggesting the DOJ should be aligned and friendly with one particular party or another and so they don’t have to follow rules and laws we expect others to comply with?", ">\n\nGarland is not a friend to justice.\nWhy has Trump not been indicted yet? What's the confusion?", ">\n\n\nWhy has Trump not been indicted yet?\n\nwhy would you expect him to have been? the investigation isn't over yet", ">\n\nit explains why they weren't indicted in the article", ">\n\nSome anonymous lawyer being quoted by CNN is not a definitive explanation at all. It's hearsay and well-meaning bullshit. But when the DOJ was asked? \"A spokesperson for the Department of Justice declined to comment.\" But if you do believe that anonymous source, do you really think they have executive privilege, as your source says? How TF do \"advisors\" get privilege?", ">\n\nthey worked in the White House", ">\n\nBad enough that everyone bought that crap, \"The president is immune to criminal prosecution and subpoenas.\" But now we're going to extend it to anyone who worked in the White House?! Holy cow you can't possibly believe that's a good idea.", ">\n\nAs. We. Would. Expect. 🤷‍♂️ \nCan't wait until Biden whines, makes excuses, tries to get a special master, claims that they where declassifi...... Oh wait. Dems don't do any of that.", ">\n\nIt doesn’t even matter cause republicans don’t care about mishandling classified document- oh wait…now they do.", ">\n\nAs a Democrat I am pretty pissed off at Biden for this, but I would be willing to bet he didn't know the documents were there. \nThat said, I am a strong believer in people being punished for breaking the law, even if they are on my \"team.\"\nIf he broke the law, punish him. \nJust make sure that that miserable, racist orange thing that yells all the time gets his as well.\nThis is the only way to have nice things.", ">\n\nBiden isn't asking for a special grand master or looking for a favorable court... weird.", ">\n\nLove how it took 2 years to do this for trump, and he ain't even president, 2 days for Biden and he is president. \nTo be clear, I'm not saying there shouldn't be an investigation, I'm saying Garland is showing his true colors pretty strongly with the disparity.\nEdit: I'm muting this thread, not trying to get banned for cussing some fool out again. Have a good night y'all.", ">\n\nThe difference will always be that most democrats are just fine with an investigation. Because they care about good governance instead of personality cults.", ">\n\nYeah, it's like Goofus and Gallant. Except Goofus wins every other election and beats your head in with a bat.", ">\n\nWeird how Garland can move with lightning speed when it’s a cover-your-ass political move. Lightning speed.", ">\n\nFucking ridiculous the kid-gloves treatment that Trump gets.", ">\n\nI feel like Trump is about to get his shit kicked in here by Jack Smith in about a month or so when the indictments start coming", ">\n\nI feel like someone has said this every month for the last 6 years. The point is, Trump is untouchable. His angry mob would never succeed in overthrowing the government, but they would likely affect quarterly profits.", ">\n\nThis right here. Gotta keep the wolves fed or they might bite you. \nDomestic Terrorism discourages commerce. They’re fucking cowards.", ">\n\nHow's that Trump indictment coming?", ">\n\nThis is all I'm concerned about. Biden's situation I'm sure will work itself out, but Trump has most certainly committed crimes well beyond and before simply having classified documents. I'm not even saying Biden hasn't broken the law, and he should be dealt with accordingly, but Trump has been a national security hazard and criminal since long before classified documents were found and obstruction was clearly committed to shield them, and this Biden situation should, in no way, get in the way of that case, which seems long overdue.", ">\n\nWeird. I thought the DOJ didn’t want to investigate presidents.", ">\n\nWeird, I recall the DOJ investigating Trump while he was president. And Clinton.", ">\n\nI'm not confused about it. There's no policy against investigating presidents, which is why the numerous investigations into recent sitting presidents happened and were not against any policy. There is a policy against indicting them, though that's not legally binding in any way, just a stated approach that the Justice dept. has outlined in the past.", ">\n\nThe difference between Republicans and Dems is on display again. \nNo cults, no obstructing. Let the legal system do its thing.", ">\n\nSo... he can move fast??", ">\n\nThis proves that Garland is exquisitely sensitive to (Republican) public opinion, which proves to me that he will never indict Trump.", ">\n\nHe has stated many times that no person is above the law. This proves that he's practices what he preaches.", ">\n\nDoes it though? He holds D’s to the rule of law, but drags his feet with R’s.. all to try to seem impartial. He is not holding everyone to the same standard.", ">\n\nthis is a good move despite what wackos in this sub will say. the alternative would be jim jordan and the house intelligence committee running crazy conspiracy theories over this investigation. \nwith this special counsel it will at least be an actual legitimate investigation that will in all likelihood tamper the political effects for biden, as well as create a more legitimate nonpartisan line between this and the trump situation. it won't matter for republicans anyway, but the appearance of impropriety is good!\nobviously there's some hiccup in whatever processes for classified documents there are if they can be mixed in with other documents, put in places they aren't supposed to be, forgotten about, etc. and perhaps that can come to light as a result of both of these investigations and those processes can be revised to address these issues, whether intentionally mishandled or mishandled due to ignorance/an accident.", ">\n\n\nthe alternative would be jim jordan and the house intelligence committee running crazy conspiracy theories over this investigation. \n\ni don't think is an \"either or\" kind of situation. you'll still get jim's hot take of the day once they set up the committee.", ">\n\nsure but as far as document requests and the like it could make it more complicated for the house to go as apeshit as they would otherwise", ">\n\nNo it won't. Because they are not grounded in reality. Just watch.", ">\n\ni mean the law still exists lol", ">\n\nDoes it, though?", ">\n\nyes\ndo you think jim jordan can just walk over to DOJ and grab a bunch of documents and tell the DOJ to fuck off?", ">\n\nNo. But he can tell the House to fuck off when they subpoena him. And that subpoena is referred to the DOJ for enforcement, Merrick Garland can sit on it for weeks and then eventually decline to prosecute. Just like it happened with Meadows.", ">\n\nSure, sounds reasonable. Seems pretty likely somebody committed a crime. \nRemind me again why Garland took 20 extra months to take action when a Republican had documents like this?", ">\n\nMerrick Garland took two years to appoint a special counsel to Trump but he took 1 week to appoint a special counsel to Biden. Is he trying to please the Republican house or someone powerful is really trying hard that Biden don't run again. What an idiotic decision. He is giving fuel to republicans. Any normal person would understand that Biden administration is co-operating with the appropriate authority to resolve this matter. I am so disappointed at Merrick Garland.", ">\n\nSo the day after trump announced he was running he appointed a special counsel. The day after Biden (presumptive candidate) is being investigated, appoint a special counsel.... seems consistent.", ">\n\nI understand the frustration, however, what's the alternative choice? \nDemocrats should let immoral and unethical actions of their members? \nDoesn't it sound ridiculous to suggest being lawful and ethical is losing?\nWhat the democrats need to do is clean up their dependence on big donor moneys by making significant changes to the laws surrounding political campaigns. \nWhen Republican's don't vote for campaign reform, they should be examined carefully by journalists, then shamed for any corruption, and arrested for any crimes.", ">\n\nI like this comment; there is a core of truth and clearheaded observation within that would likely solve most things political, if we can just convince the first national politician to unlatch from the corporate money tit. Someone has to be the wind-dummy, the maverick, and it would certainly be someone with enough independent wealth to tell the corporations and lobbyists to kick rocks. Hell, if even the congressional leadership adopted this tactic, media pressure would steer the others. \nSounds very cool. Who’s first?", ">\n\nI don't know why everyone is making such a big deal about this. Obama declassified all of these documents on his last day in office. He didn't tell anyone, but since he thought it, they are declassified. You can't prove me wrong.", ">\n\nA complete outrage. It took Garland nearly TWO YEARS of begging Trump pretty please for his documents back AND a warrant before a Special Prosecutor could be assigned on Trump, but within two months, he’s out front and center appointing one on Biden? Fuck all Garland apologists.", ">\n\nBefore Trump announced his candidacy for 2024, Garland didn't need a special counsel. He could investigate him directly.", ">\n\n“Could”", ">\n\nwhy are you using quotes? he was and is currently being investigated lol", ">\n\nOh yeah two years and the Georgia election officials weren’t even subpoenaed until last north by Jack Smith. Tell me more of this mythical investigation you think Garland was doing.", ">\n\nso you think there was no investigation?", ">\n\nSure, as slow walked and as toothless as it could be", ">\n\nit's not finished lol", ">\n\nGArlANd NEedS MoRE TiME tO bUiLd A cASE", ">\n\nand what exactly are your qualifications for investigating and prosecuting someone in federal court for a potential violation of the espionage act/obstruction of justice?", ">\n\nTrump and Biden should both be investigated for illegally having classified documents, the more serious crimes are the lying and obstruction of justice. If you steal a cookie from the cookie jar that’s a “crime” but if you confess to you parents it’s not as bad as if you’re parents catch you and confront you and you lie and try to blame someone else or say they have no authority over cookies and tell them to f-off. Your parents won’t be happy about either situation but one is clearly exponentially worse.", ">\n\nI'm guessing that's the end for Biden re-election dreams. Thank God. Hopefully dems find someone willing to run in 24 that isn't kamala Harris.", ">\n\nI voted for Biden and I’m fine with this.", ">\n\nSame.", ">\n\nWonder if anyone will remember either of these cases in 2024", ">\n\nIt won't matter once the investigation concludes Biden didn't do anything criminal and everyone moves on to something else.\nWe were assured Afghanistan would put Republicans right back into power and that didn't happen. This will be no different.", ">\n\nSounds good. And if actual malicious intent is found, prosecute anybody involved. \nY'know, malicious intent like refusing to return the documents, altering some by hand, letting some of them go missing, lying about how many they have, and not cooperating with the DOJ.", ">\n\nThis is a great opportunity to show what cooperating with an investigation looks like so we can make direct comparisons to the orange shitgibbon and his posse of clown lawyers.", ">\n\nTo what end? You can't squeeze juice out of a rock, not even with a most special counsel. The GOP is not a party of reason. Just like HRC going before their Benghazi committee for 6 hours...did that stop them? Heck no!", ">\n\nThe public has such a false and skewed notion of \"fair and non partisan\" that moves like this are largely pointless. If the evidence is convincing, it doesnt fucking matter how you launch a trial.", ">\n\nSo Trump took almost two years to investigate and Biden takes a couple days. Is Garland a Republican by any chance?", ">\n\nJFC - I came here to say this.", ">\n\nGod it’s only the second week of 2023 and I’m already burned out", ">\n\nWell that was fast wtf are they doing about Trump?", ">\n\nWell that was fast!", ">\n\nCool there should be. Wish someone from the cult would expect the same if their messiah.", ">\n\nCool, sounds reasonable.", ">\n\nSeems normal. I imagine this will go significantly faster since Biden won’t block everything imaginable.", ">\n\ndoocy on fox news right now is the hardest he's been since Jen Psaki's last CBT session on national TV with him in the press core.", ">\n\nI'm a Democrat, voted for Biden. If he fucked up, he should face the consequences.", ">\n\nHe's always been a republican. Coward refuses to prosecute Trump.", ">\n\nGood. This is how it should be.", ">\n\nCorrupt Garland took his ass time to investigate Trump, even go as far as shielding him against all investigations, but was quite quick to jump on the Biden files. Spineless corrupt Republicans.", ">\n\nGiving Republicans such a gift is Democrats in a nutshell, sigh." ]

[ "Do a complete investigation, gather the evidence, follow all procedures and the law, seek justice without fear or favor no matter who is involved. Figure this mess out.", ">\n\nFully agree - and I'd actually like the investigation to be concluded swiftly since the ones being investigated will likely be 100% cooperative. It's not like DoJ will have to be dealing with full on liars and criminals which takes forever to find the answers.", ">\n\nI 100% agree that there ought to be a reasonable investigation into this but I do have to wonder if any of this matters at all given that Biden is currently the president and therefore has not only the right to have classified information but also the ability to declassify that information.\nNot trying to make excuses for the oversight (or lack thereof) of classified documents, but it seems to me as though this requires an investigation into how classified documents are handled during and after individuals have been given such status and after said status has lapsed.\nLet's be perfectly honest, if they had taken different actions on the first set of documents, we likely wouldn't even know about this because there was nobody searching for them.\nHad Biden and his lawyers actually been seriously corrupt, they could easily have disposed of them in a fireplace or down a toilet and no one would know the better.\nThe fact that they brought this directly to the attention of the proper authorities is at least proof that they do have respect for the rule of law and are willing to except the consequences, even if it is going to be used to make political hay while the sun shines.\nThat said, this likely has huge implications for executive privilege, especially to the extent that the former president argued he had. I personally do not have a problem with the minister of th Office of the President being able to be held accountable for their actions but only if it is equally applied across the board and not just something that we will have to deal with when presidents from the Democratic party are being scrutinized.", ">\n\n\nhas not only the right to have classified information but also the ability to declassify that information.\n\nHe does. But apparently these docs were from his Vice Presidency under Obama. So, it's a bit uncertain.\nAnd it really undermines at least one of the central charges you could have lodged against Trump, that everyone that is able to access classified documents has a substantive responsibility to make sure they are handled appropriately. The \"oh, well, we had to leave in a hurry and things just got mixed up\" arguments Trump could have made before would have had little merit - especially when you consider previous historic cases where even a single doc mishandled ended up with someone in jail.\nBut now Trump will be able to dilute that charge completely. He's still fucked on obstruction and everything else (hopefully).", ">\n\nClassified != Compartmentalized, Top Secret, etc.", ">\n\nI agree with you, but I was recently informed that sources say some of these classified documents were classified Top Secret.\nIt does appear as though ABC is confirming that sources are saying that some of these were top secret documents.\n\nSources also told ABC News that the original batch of about 10 documents found in November contains classified vice-presidential briefing papers about foreign countries, some of which were marked top secret.\n\nAnd CNN is not even using the journalistic term source, going so far as to assert that some of these documents were top secret.\n\nSome of the classified documents were “top secret,” the highest level. They were found in three or four boxes that also contained unclassified papers that fall under the Presidential Records Act, CNN has reported.\n\nIf we are going to maintain Integrity about the treatment of top secret classified documents, it is important to hold both sides accountable for their retention of documents.\nThank goodness that Biden's lawyers were up front with the FBI and NARA rather than lying about the retention of documents and obstructing an investigation.\nI really hope that Biden doesn't try to use the executive privilege argument to keep himself from investigation, but this is likely going to be a permanent stain on his reputation and definitely opens up the presidential field in the Democratic Party for 2024.", ">\n\nWhy would this be a permanent stain on Biden’s reputation?", ">\n\nBecause it will 100% be used along with whataboutism to suggest that Biden was going after Trump for the same thing that he was caught doing, regardless of the fact that Biden was not responsible for the investigation into Trump's documents has not been outspoken about the retention of documents, subsequent Lies by his lawyers, and obstruction.\nI'm not saying that it is going to be fair, or even rational but it is going to cause a stain and that will be used to pillory him.", ">\n\nSo in essence, this is only going to be a stain in the minds of people who are rather brainless to begin with….gotcha", ">\n\nIts a stain because it's political ammunition for the other side, not because you or I see it for the opportunitistically timed political assault that it seems to be. In modern politics, being on the defensive is the same as losing. Hillary Clinton's email fiasco likely contributed to the 2016 election results even though she wasn't indicted for a crime.\nThe people on the other side of the political spectrum who would consider this whole fiasco a stain on Biden AREN'T brainless, they're heavily propogandized, and they DO vote. This whole thing will be used to justify any or all of Trump's conduct that should be immediately disqualifying. Expect this to be split-screened with all of Trump's legal woes.\nHopefully Trump won't make it to the 2024 Election season as a viable candidate. If Trump does make it, Trump will use this against Biden. If Trump loses out to someone like DeSantis, there will be a concerted effort to crucify Biden with it.", ">\n\nMy favorite part of this:\nNo raging tweets from the president making up executive powers. Accusing people of planting evidence and arguing about a deep state conspiracy against him.", ">\n\nI’d be hilarious if he copy pasted one of trumps tweets and ended it with JK I’m not a raving lunatic in a middle of a tantrum.", ">\n\nThat would be some great dark Brandon shit.", ">\n\nI am all for a special counsel being appointed. But a Trump appointee feels like an attempt by Garland to bend over backwards to show just how apolitical he is. If he wanted to reach across the aisle, he couldn’t find a Bush appointee rather than someone appointed by a man who literally tried to upend the Republic and is known for appointing partisan hacks?", ">\n\nThis is how Garland has been acting since appointed. It’s like he’s so terrified of being perceived as biased against repubs that he instead acts biased against dems. He has truly been a failure at AG.. even more of a letdown than Mueller", ">\n\nWell, Garland is a conservative….. people think that he must be left wing because Obama nominated him for SCOTUS. NOPE! - he’s right wing and Obama was throwing the GOP a bone. The GOP just hated Obama so fucking much they slapped down a nominee that aligned with them.", ">\n\nTrue, Biden should have appointed someone else", ">\n\nOnly took a year and a half to appoint one for Trump. Also what about that DOJ policy about not investigating and prosecuting a sitting president which protected the former guy for, what, six years now?", ">\n\nGarland is not our friend.", ">\n\nWho’s friend, exactly? What does friendship have to do with accountability to rules and laws?\nAre you suggesting the DOJ should be aligned and friendly with one particular party or another and so they don’t have to follow rules and laws we expect others to comply with?", ">\n\nGarland is not a friend to justice.\nWhy has Trump not been indicted yet? What's the confusion?", ">\n\n\nWhy has Trump not been indicted yet?\n\nwhy would you expect him to have been? the investigation isn't over yet", ">\n\nit explains why they weren't indicted in the article", ">\n\nSome anonymous lawyer being quoted by CNN is not a definitive explanation at all. It's hearsay and well-meaning bullshit. But when the DOJ was asked? \"A spokesperson for the Department of Justice declined to comment.\" But if you do believe that anonymous source, do you really think they have executive privilege, as your source says? How TF do \"advisors\" get privilege?", ">\n\nthey worked in the White House", ">\n\nBad enough that everyone bought that crap, \"The president is immune to criminal prosecution and subpoenas.\" But now we're going to extend it to anyone who worked in the White House?! Holy cow you can't possibly believe that's a good idea.", ">\n\nAs. We. Would. Expect. 🤷‍♂️ \nCan't wait until Biden whines, makes excuses, tries to get a special master, claims that they where declassifi...... Oh wait. Dems don't do any of that.", ">\n\nIt doesn’t even matter cause republicans don’t care about mishandling classified document- oh wait…now they do.", ">\n\nAs a Democrat I am pretty pissed off at Biden for this, but I would be willing to bet he didn't know the documents were there. \nThat said, I am a strong believer in people being punished for breaking the law, even if they are on my \"team.\"\nIf he broke the law, punish him. \nJust make sure that that miserable, racist orange thing that yells all the time gets his as well.\nThis is the only way to have nice things.", ">\n\nBiden isn't asking for a special grand master or looking for a favorable court... weird.", ">\n\nLove how it took 2 years to do this for trump, and he ain't even president, 2 days for Biden and he is president. \nTo be clear, I'm not saying there shouldn't be an investigation, I'm saying Garland is showing his true colors pretty strongly with the disparity.\nEdit: I'm muting this thread, not trying to get banned for cussing some fool out again. Have a good night y'all.", ">\n\nThe difference will always be that most democrats are just fine with an investigation. Because they care about good governance instead of personality cults.", ">\n\nYeah, it's like Goofus and Gallant. Except Goofus wins every other election and beats your head in with a bat.", ">\n\nWeird how Garland can move with lightning speed when it’s a cover-your-ass political move. Lightning speed.", ">\n\nFucking ridiculous the kid-gloves treatment that Trump gets.", ">\n\nI feel like Trump is about to get his shit kicked in here by Jack Smith in about a month or so when the indictments start coming", ">\n\nI feel like someone has said this every month for the last 6 years. The point is, Trump is untouchable. His angry mob would never succeed in overthrowing the government, but they would likely affect quarterly profits.", ">\n\nThis right here. Gotta keep the wolves fed or they might bite you. \nDomestic Terrorism discourages commerce. They’re fucking cowards.", ">\n\nHow's that Trump indictment coming?", ">\n\nThis is all I'm concerned about. Biden's situation I'm sure will work itself out, but Trump has most certainly committed crimes well beyond and before simply having classified documents. I'm not even saying Biden hasn't broken the law, and he should be dealt with accordingly, but Trump has been a national security hazard and criminal since long before classified documents were found and obstruction was clearly committed to shield them, and this Biden situation should, in no way, get in the way of that case, which seems long overdue.", ">\n\nWeird. I thought the DOJ didn’t want to investigate presidents.", ">\n\nWeird, I recall the DOJ investigating Trump while he was president. And Clinton.", ">\n\nI'm not confused about it. There's no policy against investigating presidents, which is why the numerous investigations into recent sitting presidents happened and were not against any policy. There is a policy against indicting them, though that's not legally binding in any way, just a stated approach that the Justice dept. has outlined in the past.", ">\n\nThe difference between Republicans and Dems is on display again. \nNo cults, no obstructing. Let the legal system do its thing.", ">\n\nSo... he can move fast??", ">\n\nThis proves that Garland is exquisitely sensitive to (Republican) public opinion, which proves to me that he will never indict Trump.", ">\n\nHe has stated many times that no person is above the law. This proves that he's practices what he preaches.", ">\n\nDoes it though? He holds D’s to the rule of law, but drags his feet with R’s.. all to try to seem impartial. He is not holding everyone to the same standard.", ">\n\nthis is a good move despite what wackos in this sub will say. the alternative would be jim jordan and the house intelligence committee running crazy conspiracy theories over this investigation. \nwith this special counsel it will at least be an actual legitimate investigation that will in all likelihood tamper the political effects for biden, as well as create a more legitimate nonpartisan line between this and the trump situation. it won't matter for republicans anyway, but the appearance of impropriety is good!\nobviously there's some hiccup in whatever processes for classified documents there are if they can be mixed in with other documents, put in places they aren't supposed to be, forgotten about, etc. and perhaps that can come to light as a result of both of these investigations and those processes can be revised to address these issues, whether intentionally mishandled or mishandled due to ignorance/an accident.", ">\n\n\nthe alternative would be jim jordan and the house intelligence committee running crazy conspiracy theories over this investigation. \n\ni don't think is an \"either or\" kind of situation. you'll still get jim's hot take of the day once they set up the committee.", ">\n\nsure but as far as document requests and the like it could make it more complicated for the house to go as apeshit as they would otherwise", ">\n\nNo it won't. Because they are not grounded in reality. Just watch.", ">\n\ni mean the law still exists lol", ">\n\nDoes it, though?", ">\n\nyes\ndo you think jim jordan can just walk over to DOJ and grab a bunch of documents and tell the DOJ to fuck off?", ">\n\nNo. But he can tell the House to fuck off when they subpoena him. And that subpoena is referred to the DOJ for enforcement, Merrick Garland can sit on it for weeks and then eventually decline to prosecute. Just like it happened with Meadows.", ">\n\nSure, sounds reasonable. Seems pretty likely somebody committed a crime. \nRemind me again why Garland took 20 extra months to take action when a Republican had documents like this?", ">\n\nMerrick Garland took two years to appoint a special counsel to Trump but he took 1 week to appoint a special counsel to Biden. Is he trying to please the Republican house or someone powerful is really trying hard that Biden don't run again. What an idiotic decision. He is giving fuel to republicans. Any normal person would understand that Biden administration is co-operating with the appropriate authority to resolve this matter. I am so disappointed at Merrick Garland.", ">\n\nSo the day after trump announced he was running he appointed a special counsel. The day after Biden (presumptive candidate) is being investigated, appoint a special counsel.... seems consistent.", ">\n\nI understand the frustration, however, what's the alternative choice? \nDemocrats should let immoral and unethical actions of their members? \nDoesn't it sound ridiculous to suggest being lawful and ethical is losing?\nWhat the democrats need to do is clean up their dependence on big donor moneys by making significant changes to the laws surrounding political campaigns. \nWhen Republican's don't vote for campaign reform, they should be examined carefully by journalists, then shamed for any corruption, and arrested for any crimes.", ">\n\nI like this comment; there is a core of truth and clearheaded observation within that would likely solve most things political, if we can just convince the first national politician to unlatch from the corporate money tit. Someone has to be the wind-dummy, the maverick, and it would certainly be someone with enough independent wealth to tell the corporations and lobbyists to kick rocks. Hell, if even the congressional leadership adopted this tactic, media pressure would steer the others. \nSounds very cool. Who’s first?", ">\n\nI don't know why everyone is making such a big deal about this. Obama declassified all of these documents on his last day in office. He didn't tell anyone, but since he thought it, they are declassified. You can't prove me wrong.", ">\n\nA complete outrage. It took Garland nearly TWO YEARS of begging Trump pretty please for his documents back AND a warrant before a Special Prosecutor could be assigned on Trump, but within two months, he’s out front and center appointing one on Biden? Fuck all Garland apologists.", ">\n\nBefore Trump announced his candidacy for 2024, Garland didn't need a special counsel. He could investigate him directly.", ">\n\n“Could”", ">\n\nwhy are you using quotes? he was and is currently being investigated lol", ">\n\nOh yeah two years and the Georgia election officials weren’t even subpoenaed until last north by Jack Smith. Tell me more of this mythical investigation you think Garland was doing.", ">\n\nso you think there was no investigation?", ">\n\nSure, as slow walked and as toothless as it could be", ">\n\nit's not finished lol", ">\n\nGArlANd NEedS MoRE TiME tO bUiLd A cASE", ">\n\nand what exactly are your qualifications for investigating and prosecuting someone in federal court for a potential violation of the espionage act/obstruction of justice?", ">\n\nTrump and Biden should both be investigated for illegally having classified documents, the more serious crimes are the lying and obstruction of justice. If you steal a cookie from the cookie jar that’s a “crime” but if you confess to you parents it’s not as bad as if you’re parents catch you and confront you and you lie and try to blame someone else or say they have no authority over cookies and tell them to f-off. Your parents won’t be happy about either situation but one is clearly exponentially worse.", ">\n\nI'm guessing that's the end for Biden re-election dreams. Thank God. Hopefully dems find someone willing to run in 24 that isn't kamala Harris.", ">\n\nI voted for Biden and I’m fine with this.", ">\n\nSame.", ">\n\nWonder if anyone will remember either of these cases in 2024", ">\n\nIt won't matter once the investigation concludes Biden didn't do anything criminal and everyone moves on to something else.\nWe were assured Afghanistan would put Republicans right back into power and that didn't happen. This will be no different.", ">\n\nSounds good. And if actual malicious intent is found, prosecute anybody involved. \nY'know, malicious intent like refusing to return the documents, altering some by hand, letting some of them go missing, lying about how many they have, and not cooperating with the DOJ.", ">\n\nThis is a great opportunity to show what cooperating with an investigation looks like so we can make direct comparisons to the orange shitgibbon and his posse of clown lawyers.", ">\n\nTo what end? You can't squeeze juice out of a rock, not even with a most special counsel. The GOP is not a party of reason. Just like HRC going before their Benghazi committee for 6 hours...did that stop them? Heck no!", ">\n\nThe public has such a false and skewed notion of \"fair and non partisan\" that moves like this are largely pointless. If the evidence is convincing, it doesnt fucking matter how you launch a trial.", ">\n\nSo Trump took almost two years to investigate and Biden takes a couple days. Is Garland a Republican by any chance?", ">\n\nJFC - I came here to say this.", ">\n\nGod it’s only the second week of 2023 and I’m already burned out", ">\n\nWell that was fast wtf are they doing about Trump?", ">\n\nWell that was fast!", ">\n\nCool there should be. Wish someone from the cult would expect the same if their messiah.", ">\n\nCool, sounds reasonable.", ">\n\nSeems normal. I imagine this will go significantly faster since Biden won’t block everything imaginable.", ">\n\ndoocy on fox news right now is the hardest he's been since Jen Psaki's last CBT session on national TV with him in the press core.", ">\n\nI'm a Democrat, voted for Biden. If he fucked up, he should face the consequences.", ">\n\nHe's always been a republican. Coward refuses to prosecute Trump.", ">\n\nGood. This is how it should be.", ">\n\nCorrupt Garland took his ass time to investigate Trump, even go as far as shielding him against all investigations, but was quite quick to jump on the Biden files. Spineless corrupt Republicans.", ">\n\nGiving Republicans such a gift is Democrats in a nutshell, sigh.", ">\n\nI am into this and I voted for the guy. I wish people could be like that about the other guy." ]

[ "Do a complete investigation, gather the evidence, follow all procedures and the law, seek justice without fear or favor no matter who is involved. Figure this mess out.", ">\n\nFully agree - and I'd actually like the investigation to be concluded swiftly since the ones being investigated will likely be 100% cooperative. It's not like DoJ will have to be dealing with full on liars and criminals which takes forever to find the answers.", ">\n\nI 100% agree that there ought to be a reasonable investigation into this but I do have to wonder if any of this matters at all given that Biden is currently the president and therefore has not only the right to have classified information but also the ability to declassify that information.\nNot trying to make excuses for the oversight (or lack thereof) of classified documents, but it seems to me as though this requires an investigation into how classified documents are handled during and after individuals have been given such status and after said status has lapsed.\nLet's be perfectly honest, if they had taken different actions on the first set of documents, we likely wouldn't even know about this because there was nobody searching for them.\nHad Biden and his lawyers actually been seriously corrupt, they could easily have disposed of them in a fireplace or down a toilet and no one would know the better.\nThe fact that they brought this directly to the attention of the proper authorities is at least proof that they do have respect for the rule of law and are willing to except the consequences, even if it is going to be used to make political hay while the sun shines.\nThat said, this likely has huge implications for executive privilege, especially to the extent that the former president argued he had. I personally do not have a problem with the minister of th Office of the President being able to be held accountable for their actions but only if it is equally applied across the board and not just something that we will have to deal with when presidents from the Democratic party are being scrutinized.", ">\n\n\nhas not only the right to have classified information but also the ability to declassify that information.\n\nHe does. But apparently these docs were from his Vice Presidency under Obama. So, it's a bit uncertain.\nAnd it really undermines at least one of the central charges you could have lodged against Trump, that everyone that is able to access classified documents has a substantive responsibility to make sure they are handled appropriately. The \"oh, well, we had to leave in a hurry and things just got mixed up\" arguments Trump could have made before would have had little merit - especially when you consider previous historic cases where even a single doc mishandled ended up with someone in jail.\nBut now Trump will be able to dilute that charge completely. He's still fucked on obstruction and everything else (hopefully).", ">\n\nClassified != Compartmentalized, Top Secret, etc.", ">\n\nI agree with you, but I was recently informed that sources say some of these classified documents were classified Top Secret.\nIt does appear as though ABC is confirming that sources are saying that some of these were top secret documents.\n\nSources also told ABC News that the original batch of about 10 documents found in November contains classified vice-presidential briefing papers about foreign countries, some of which were marked top secret.\n\nAnd CNN is not even using the journalistic term source, going so far as to assert that some of these documents were top secret.\n\nSome of the classified documents were “top secret,” the highest level. They were found in three or four boxes that also contained unclassified papers that fall under the Presidential Records Act, CNN has reported.\n\nIf we are going to maintain Integrity about the treatment of top secret classified documents, it is important to hold both sides accountable for their retention of documents.\nThank goodness that Biden's lawyers were up front with the FBI and NARA rather than lying about the retention of documents and obstructing an investigation.\nI really hope that Biden doesn't try to use the executive privilege argument to keep himself from investigation, but this is likely going to be a permanent stain on his reputation and definitely opens up the presidential field in the Democratic Party for 2024.", ">\n\nWhy would this be a permanent stain on Biden’s reputation?", ">\n\nBecause it will 100% be used along with whataboutism to suggest that Biden was going after Trump for the same thing that he was caught doing, regardless of the fact that Biden was not responsible for the investigation into Trump's documents has not been outspoken about the retention of documents, subsequent Lies by his lawyers, and obstruction.\nI'm not saying that it is going to be fair, or even rational but it is going to cause a stain and that will be used to pillory him.", ">\n\nSo in essence, this is only going to be a stain in the minds of people who are rather brainless to begin with….gotcha", ">\n\nIts a stain because it's political ammunition for the other side, not because you or I see it for the opportunitistically timed political assault that it seems to be. In modern politics, being on the defensive is the same as losing. Hillary Clinton's email fiasco likely contributed to the 2016 election results even though she wasn't indicted for a crime.\nThe people on the other side of the political spectrum who would consider this whole fiasco a stain on Biden AREN'T brainless, they're heavily propogandized, and they DO vote. This whole thing will be used to justify any or all of Trump's conduct that should be immediately disqualifying. Expect this to be split-screened with all of Trump's legal woes.\nHopefully Trump won't make it to the 2024 Election season as a viable candidate. If Trump does make it, Trump will use this against Biden. If Trump loses out to someone like DeSantis, there will be a concerted effort to crucify Biden with it.", ">\n\nMy favorite part of this:\nNo raging tweets from the president making up executive powers. Accusing people of planting evidence and arguing about a deep state conspiracy against him.", ">\n\nI’d be hilarious if he copy pasted one of trumps tweets and ended it with JK I’m not a raving lunatic in a middle of a tantrum.", ">\n\nThat would be some great dark Brandon shit.", ">\n\nI am all for a special counsel being appointed. But a Trump appointee feels like an attempt by Garland to bend over backwards to show just how apolitical he is. If he wanted to reach across the aisle, he couldn’t find a Bush appointee rather than someone appointed by a man who literally tried to upend the Republic and is known for appointing partisan hacks?", ">\n\nThis is how Garland has been acting since appointed. It’s like he’s so terrified of being perceived as biased against repubs that he instead acts biased against dems. He has truly been a failure at AG.. even more of a letdown than Mueller", ">\n\nWell, Garland is a conservative….. people think that he must be left wing because Obama nominated him for SCOTUS. NOPE! - he’s right wing and Obama was throwing the GOP a bone. The GOP just hated Obama so fucking much they slapped down a nominee that aligned with them.", ">\n\nTrue, Biden should have appointed someone else", ">\n\nOnly took a year and a half to appoint one for Trump. Also what about that DOJ policy about not investigating and prosecuting a sitting president which protected the former guy for, what, six years now?", ">\n\nGarland is not our friend.", ">\n\nWho’s friend, exactly? What does friendship have to do with accountability to rules and laws?\nAre you suggesting the DOJ should be aligned and friendly with one particular party or another and so they don’t have to follow rules and laws we expect others to comply with?", ">\n\nGarland is not a friend to justice.\nWhy has Trump not been indicted yet? What's the confusion?", ">\n\n\nWhy has Trump not been indicted yet?\n\nwhy would you expect him to have been? the investigation isn't over yet", ">\n\nit explains why they weren't indicted in the article", ">\n\nSome anonymous lawyer being quoted by CNN is not a definitive explanation at all. It's hearsay and well-meaning bullshit. But when the DOJ was asked? \"A spokesperson for the Department of Justice declined to comment.\" But if you do believe that anonymous source, do you really think they have executive privilege, as your source says? How TF do \"advisors\" get privilege?", ">\n\nthey worked in the White House", ">\n\nBad enough that everyone bought that crap, \"The president is immune to criminal prosecution and subpoenas.\" But now we're going to extend it to anyone who worked in the White House?! Holy cow you can't possibly believe that's a good idea.", ">\n\nAs. We. Would. Expect. 🤷‍♂️ \nCan't wait until Biden whines, makes excuses, tries to get a special master, claims that they where declassifi...... Oh wait. Dems don't do any of that.", ">\n\nIt doesn’t even matter cause republicans don’t care about mishandling classified document- oh wait…now they do.", ">\n\nAs a Democrat I am pretty pissed off at Biden for this, but I would be willing to bet he didn't know the documents were there. \nThat said, I am a strong believer in people being punished for breaking the law, even if they are on my \"team.\"\nIf he broke the law, punish him. \nJust make sure that that miserable, racist orange thing that yells all the time gets his as well.\nThis is the only way to have nice things.", ">\n\nBiden isn't asking for a special grand master or looking for a favorable court... weird.", ">\n\nLove how it took 2 years to do this for trump, and he ain't even president, 2 days for Biden and he is president. \nTo be clear, I'm not saying there shouldn't be an investigation, I'm saying Garland is showing his true colors pretty strongly with the disparity.\nEdit: I'm muting this thread, not trying to get banned for cussing some fool out again. Have a good night y'all.", ">\n\nThe difference will always be that most democrats are just fine with an investigation. Because they care about good governance instead of personality cults.", ">\n\nYeah, it's like Goofus and Gallant. Except Goofus wins every other election and beats your head in with a bat.", ">\n\nWeird how Garland can move with lightning speed when it’s a cover-your-ass political move. Lightning speed.", ">\n\nFucking ridiculous the kid-gloves treatment that Trump gets.", ">\n\nI feel like Trump is about to get his shit kicked in here by Jack Smith in about a month or so when the indictments start coming", ">\n\nI feel like someone has said this every month for the last 6 years. The point is, Trump is untouchable. His angry mob would never succeed in overthrowing the government, but they would likely affect quarterly profits.", ">\n\nThis right here. Gotta keep the wolves fed or they might bite you. \nDomestic Terrorism discourages commerce. They’re fucking cowards.", ">\n\nHow's that Trump indictment coming?", ">\n\nThis is all I'm concerned about. Biden's situation I'm sure will work itself out, but Trump has most certainly committed crimes well beyond and before simply having classified documents. I'm not even saying Biden hasn't broken the law, and he should be dealt with accordingly, but Trump has been a national security hazard and criminal since long before classified documents were found and obstruction was clearly committed to shield them, and this Biden situation should, in no way, get in the way of that case, which seems long overdue.", ">\n\nWeird. I thought the DOJ didn’t want to investigate presidents.", ">\n\nWeird, I recall the DOJ investigating Trump while he was president. And Clinton.", ">\n\nI'm not confused about it. There's no policy against investigating presidents, which is why the numerous investigations into recent sitting presidents happened and were not against any policy. There is a policy against indicting them, though that's not legally binding in any way, just a stated approach that the Justice dept. has outlined in the past.", ">\n\nThe difference between Republicans and Dems is on display again. \nNo cults, no obstructing. Let the legal system do its thing.", ">\n\nSo... he can move fast??", ">\n\nThis proves that Garland is exquisitely sensitive to (Republican) public opinion, which proves to me that he will never indict Trump.", ">\n\nHe has stated many times that no person is above the law. This proves that he's practices what he preaches.", ">\n\nDoes it though? He holds D’s to the rule of law, but drags his feet with R’s.. all to try to seem impartial. He is not holding everyone to the same standard.", ">\n\nthis is a good move despite what wackos in this sub will say. the alternative would be jim jordan and the house intelligence committee running crazy conspiracy theories over this investigation. \nwith this special counsel it will at least be an actual legitimate investigation that will in all likelihood tamper the political effects for biden, as well as create a more legitimate nonpartisan line between this and the trump situation. it won't matter for republicans anyway, but the appearance of impropriety is good!\nobviously there's some hiccup in whatever processes for classified documents there are if they can be mixed in with other documents, put in places they aren't supposed to be, forgotten about, etc. and perhaps that can come to light as a result of both of these investigations and those processes can be revised to address these issues, whether intentionally mishandled or mishandled due to ignorance/an accident.", ">\n\n\nthe alternative would be jim jordan and the house intelligence committee running crazy conspiracy theories over this investigation. \n\ni don't think is an \"either or\" kind of situation. you'll still get jim's hot take of the day once they set up the committee.", ">\n\nsure but as far as document requests and the like it could make it more complicated for the house to go as apeshit as they would otherwise", ">\n\nNo it won't. Because they are not grounded in reality. Just watch.", ">\n\ni mean the law still exists lol", ">\n\nDoes it, though?", ">\n\nyes\ndo you think jim jordan can just walk over to DOJ and grab a bunch of documents and tell the DOJ to fuck off?", ">\n\nNo. But he can tell the House to fuck off when they subpoena him. And that subpoena is referred to the DOJ for enforcement, Merrick Garland can sit on it for weeks and then eventually decline to prosecute. Just like it happened with Meadows.", ">\n\nSure, sounds reasonable. Seems pretty likely somebody committed a crime. \nRemind me again why Garland took 20 extra months to take action when a Republican had documents like this?", ">\n\nMerrick Garland took two years to appoint a special counsel to Trump but he took 1 week to appoint a special counsel to Biden. Is he trying to please the Republican house or someone powerful is really trying hard that Biden don't run again. What an idiotic decision. He is giving fuel to republicans. Any normal person would understand that Biden administration is co-operating with the appropriate authority to resolve this matter. I am so disappointed at Merrick Garland.", ">\n\nSo the day after trump announced he was running he appointed a special counsel. The day after Biden (presumptive candidate) is being investigated, appoint a special counsel.... seems consistent.", ">\n\nI understand the frustration, however, what's the alternative choice? \nDemocrats should let immoral and unethical actions of their members? \nDoesn't it sound ridiculous to suggest being lawful and ethical is losing?\nWhat the democrats need to do is clean up their dependence on big donor moneys by making significant changes to the laws surrounding political campaigns. \nWhen Republican's don't vote for campaign reform, they should be examined carefully by journalists, then shamed for any corruption, and arrested for any crimes.", ">\n\nI like this comment; there is a core of truth and clearheaded observation within that would likely solve most things political, if we can just convince the first national politician to unlatch from the corporate money tit. Someone has to be the wind-dummy, the maverick, and it would certainly be someone with enough independent wealth to tell the corporations and lobbyists to kick rocks. Hell, if even the congressional leadership adopted this tactic, media pressure would steer the others. \nSounds very cool. Who’s first?", ">\n\nI don't know why everyone is making such a big deal about this. Obama declassified all of these documents on his last day in office. He didn't tell anyone, but since he thought it, they are declassified. You can't prove me wrong.", ">\n\nA complete outrage. It took Garland nearly TWO YEARS of begging Trump pretty please for his documents back AND a warrant before a Special Prosecutor could be assigned on Trump, but within two months, he’s out front and center appointing one on Biden? Fuck all Garland apologists.", ">\n\nBefore Trump announced his candidacy for 2024, Garland didn't need a special counsel. He could investigate him directly.", ">\n\n“Could”", ">\n\nwhy are you using quotes? he was and is currently being investigated lol", ">\n\nOh yeah two years and the Georgia election officials weren’t even subpoenaed until last north by Jack Smith. Tell me more of this mythical investigation you think Garland was doing.", ">\n\nso you think there was no investigation?", ">\n\nSure, as slow walked and as toothless as it could be", ">\n\nit's not finished lol", ">\n\nGArlANd NEedS MoRE TiME tO bUiLd A cASE", ">\n\nand what exactly are your qualifications for investigating and prosecuting someone in federal court for a potential violation of the espionage act/obstruction of justice?", ">\n\nTrump and Biden should both be investigated for illegally having classified documents, the more serious crimes are the lying and obstruction of justice. If you steal a cookie from the cookie jar that’s a “crime” but if you confess to you parents it’s not as bad as if you’re parents catch you and confront you and you lie and try to blame someone else or say they have no authority over cookies and tell them to f-off. Your parents won’t be happy about either situation but one is clearly exponentially worse.", ">\n\nI'm guessing that's the end for Biden re-election dreams. Thank God. Hopefully dems find someone willing to run in 24 that isn't kamala Harris.", ">\n\nI voted for Biden and I’m fine with this.", ">\n\nSame.", ">\n\nWonder if anyone will remember either of these cases in 2024", ">\n\nIt won't matter once the investigation concludes Biden didn't do anything criminal and everyone moves on to something else.\nWe were assured Afghanistan would put Republicans right back into power and that didn't happen. This will be no different.", ">\n\nSounds good. And if actual malicious intent is found, prosecute anybody involved. \nY'know, malicious intent like refusing to return the documents, altering some by hand, letting some of them go missing, lying about how many they have, and not cooperating with the DOJ.", ">\n\nThis is a great opportunity to show what cooperating with an investigation looks like so we can make direct comparisons to the orange shitgibbon and his posse of clown lawyers.", ">\n\nTo what end? You can't squeeze juice out of a rock, not even with a most special counsel. The GOP is not a party of reason. Just like HRC going before their Benghazi committee for 6 hours...did that stop them? Heck no!", ">\n\nThe public has such a false and skewed notion of \"fair and non partisan\" that moves like this are largely pointless. If the evidence is convincing, it doesnt fucking matter how you launch a trial.", ">\n\nSo Trump took almost two years to investigate and Biden takes a couple days. Is Garland a Republican by any chance?", ">\n\nJFC - I came here to say this.", ">\n\nGod it’s only the second week of 2023 and I’m already burned out", ">\n\nWell that was fast wtf are they doing about Trump?", ">\n\nWell that was fast!", ">\n\nCool there should be. Wish someone from the cult would expect the same if their messiah.", ">\n\nCool, sounds reasonable.", ">\n\nSeems normal. I imagine this will go significantly faster since Biden won’t block everything imaginable.", ">\n\ndoocy on fox news right now is the hardest he's been since Jen Psaki's last CBT session on national TV with him in the press core.", ">\n\nI'm a Democrat, voted for Biden. If he fucked up, he should face the consequences.", ">\n\nHe's always been a republican. Coward refuses to prosecute Trump.", ">\n\nGood. This is how it should be.", ">\n\nCorrupt Garland took his ass time to investigate Trump, even go as far as shielding him against all investigations, but was quite quick to jump on the Biden files. Spineless corrupt Republicans.", ">\n\nGiving Republicans such a gift is Democrats in a nutshell, sigh.", ">\n\nI am into this and I voted for the guy. I wish people could be like that about the other guy.", ">\n\nSame." ]