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Trump and GOP sell out to the Russians

President Trump meets with Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov and other members of the Russian delegation, including their ambassador, Sergey Kislyak, fourth from left, in a meeting that was closed to the U.S. press but photos of which were released by the Russian Foreign Ministry, May 10, 2017, in the Oval office of the White House.
President Trump meets with Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov and other members of the Russian delegation, including their ambassador, Sergey Kislyak, fourth from left, in a meeting that was closed to the U.S. press but photos of which were released by the Russian Foreign Ministry, May 10, 2017, in the Oval office of the White House. NYT

In what universe is it acceptable for Donald Trump to deny the American press entry into the Oval Office while allowing two Russian emissaries and Russian media to enter? These individuals represented Vladimir Putin, who ordered the hacking of our election and attempted to subvert our democratic form of government.

They were welcomed by Trump as long-lost comrades and given classified information, endangering those who risk their lives pursuing the intelligence that protects our homeland.

Mr. Trump is furious about “leaks.” However, which is more dangerous – a person who reveals the egregious actions and statements of this president, or the president himself divulging highly classified information to an adversary?

It is time for our legislators to open their eyes to the obvious and cease being enablers of a president who has shown himself to be a chronic liar and mentally and psychologically unstable.

Republicans are the only line of defense against this president’s dangerous actions. However, they have rejected reason and good judgment in exchange for Trump’s signature on legislation that furthers their agenda.

Time will determine the price we will all pay for their failure to prioritize allegiance to our country before blind fidelity to their party.

Marti Nicely, Fresno

This story was originally published June 17, 2017 at 2:05 PM with the headline "Trump and GOP sell out to the Russians."

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