Alzheimers, Caligula, Treason — All Shakespearean
How to explain the Putin and Trump press conference in Helsinki? Alzheimers, Caligula, Treason — whatever the case — it is all Shakespearean.
Alzheimers? Trump’s father had it, and perhaps early onset should be assessed. Seriously, sincerely — though Trump has had a lifelong pattern of narcissism, ignorance and irresponsibility — and perhaps the Presidency is legitimately a huge overreach for such an underprepared person — there could be real health considerations. It is hard to understand how our sophisticated democracy does not require tax returns to be shared, health records to be shared — all things regular Americans do to get a job, qualify for financial aid, live our lives in a rules based society. So, perhaps, to rule this out or not, can someone get a doctor?
Or is Trump a modern day, slightly less bloody Caligula? In the early AD years, after the first six months, “historic sources focused upon his cruelty, sadism, extravagance, and sexual perversion, presenting him as an insane tyrant. While the reliability of these sources is questionable, it is known that during his brief reign, Caligula worked to increase the unconstrained personal power of the emperor, as opposed to countervailing powers within the principate. He directed much of his attention to ambitious construction projects and luxurious dwellings for himself…” And then the Roman Empire declined. We should be worried, very worried. And it should be noted that in early AD 41, Caligula was assassinated as a result of a conspiracy by officers of the Praetorian Guard, senators, and courtiers. We should avoid this as well.
Treason? Well, there is an Oath of Office. It reads: “I do solemnly swear (or affirm) that I will faithfully execute the Office of President of the United States, and will to the best of my Ability, preserve, protect and defend the Constitution of the United States.” From the grandstands, given the constant efforts to belittle the rule of law and those public employees committed to such work — well, alas, like his 5 bankruptcies and 3 marriages — the odds are not good that this man can keep an oath. Is it treason? Let the lawyers decide. And from a partisan political strategy for November, such a conversation would require a beer or two. I hold out hope for American common sense and decency.
Shakespearean? More specifically, Faustian. This mostly applies to the Republicans and any waffling Democrats, and libertarian fantasy fanatics like Rand Paul. They have sold their soul and our country out for their own partisan/policy gains — dismissing the long term damage on our institutions — flawed as they can be. And their lack of vision, lack of faith in American ingenuity and hard work to develop alternative energy, address health and housing crises and array of other issues we could collectively solve— is well, unAmerican. They are frightened folks. Frightened by an ever changing world, changing demographics of “different” people — immigrants like their forbearers — just from a different part of the world. And fundamentally, frightened about losing their jobs as elected officials.
At least Faust sold his soul for knowledge and pleasure. Seems like these Trump fencesitters are at a flea market — and sold their integrity and precious essence for some cheap popcorn — and then watching the tragedy unravel.
God help us.
