Trump, Putin, and His GOP (Whose REALLY?): A Legacy of Revisionism, Regression, and Ongoing American Ruin

There's a lot to get to here...

Donald Trump's longstanding admiration for Vladimir Putin—a war criminal in Ukraine and a ruthless despot in Russia and beyond—aligns with Putin's revisionist and regressive beliefs, mirrors those of the now Trump "Republican" Party. 

Here I would like to reflect forward to an upcoming blog.for Monday, March 31, 2025: "Would the Founding Fathers Be Republicans Today? A Look at the Constitution's Signers and Modern Conservatism"

The once Republican Party's alignment with Trump (and therefore, Putin) has been evident not just recently, but for decades leading up to the Trump 2016 election, and then his 2024 return as POTUS47, despite his status as a convicted felon—a reality as absurd as it is alarming.

First, let's share, from the Marsh singing family at @marshsongs (music video):"The people of Europe stand with Ukraine against the threat of a false peace as much as a brutal war. Because of our shared history. Because of our shared future. Because it is just. Because it is necessary. And because they deserve nothing less. Don't abandon them. #SlavaUkraini"

Remember Project 2025?

From Julie B(rooklyn) BABY WOKE AF 🇺🇸🇯🇲 @JMeanypants - It’s Project 2025. Every single fuck up, including the signal chat breach, is plucked from the pages of Project 2025. It’s a DOOMSDAY INITIATIVE:

Moving on...

It's important to recognize one very serious issue about Donald Trump:

Donald Trump is still POTUS45, who worked hard to normalize his purposeful chaos & autocratic bigotry. Playing out now as convicted felon POTUS47, we are witnessing his now normalized version of a fascist POTUS, reshaped, hidden in plain sight, to overtake and diminish this country. But all still Donald. The guy who is not our friend. Not an American "President" in the historically understood version of the office. 

Unless you're a person of very questionable orientation. Or utterly deluded. Fooled by the charlatan, the career criminal, Donald Trump.

Trump, as POTUS45 and now POTUS47, has worked to reshape the country in his own toxic image, bringing change that challenges the status quo in ways his supporters seem incapable of recognizing. While his approach may be unconventional, it's important to recognize how his vision and leadership continue to resonate with a significant portion of disaffected, if not mesmerized, Americans. 

Who voted for this clown? This career criminal? It has to do with how such bad ideas spread across the nation and the world. For an examination to give you an idea, just in case you're still unaware of this kind of thing...

The Rise and Fall of Terrorgram - FRONTLINE & ProPublica investigate how an online network known as Terrorgram spread extremism & violence. This traces the rise of a global community of white supremacists & the anonymous, loosely moderated platforms used to spread hate & promote terror attacks.

So...

Regardless of differing opinions, we must remember that we are all part of the same nation and that the future of America, as founded and intended, relies on open dialogue and mutual respect, even amidst strong disagreements. We must also listen to our international friends, while realizing that listening too closely to our international (and domestic) enemies will lead us to ruin, and to their decades long struggle for success over and against US..

​If Vladimir Putin had a U.S. president under his influence, he might pursue the following actions to undermine America:​

1. Weaken NATO Alliances: Undermine commitments to NATO, creating divisions within the alliance.​

2. Reduce Support for Ukraine: Halt military and financial aid to Ukraine, allowing Russian aggression to proceed unchecked.​Chatham House+1Institute for the Study of War+1

3. Lift Sanctions on Russia: Remove economic sanctions, bolstering Russia's economy and geopolitical standing.​

4. Undermine U.S. Intelligence: Discredit and weaken U.S. intelligence agencies to reduce their effectiveness.​

5. Promote Isolationist Policies: Encourage withdrawal from international agreements and organizations, diminishing U.S. global influence.​

6. Foster Domestic Division: Exploit social and political divisions to destabilize internal cohesion.​

7. Compromise Cybersecurity: Allow vulnerabilities in critical infrastructure, exposing the U.S. to cyber threats.​

8. Weaken Trade Alliances: Dismantle trade agreements that counterbalance Russian economic interests.​

9. Reduce Military Readiness: Cut defense spending or reallocate resources away from strategic priorities.​

10. Control Energy Policies: Implement energy strategies that increase dependence on Russian resources.​Business Insider

Since his inauguration in January 2025, convicted felon and insurrectionist (absurdly) Pres. Donald Trump has undertaken several actions:​

1. Imposed 25% Tariffs on Auto Imports: Aimed at boosting domestic manufacturing but criticized for potential global trade repercussions. ​AP News

2. Paused Foreign Aid Programs: Ordered a 90-day suspension of U.S. foreign development assistance for review, affecting global aid projects.​Wikipedia

3. Reinstated the Mexico City Policy: Restricted U.S. funding to foreign organizations that provide or promote abortions. ​Reuters

4. Reduced DEI Initiatives: Issued executive orders curbing Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion programs within federal agencies.​

5. Negotiated with Russia on Economic Deals: Discussed potential joint ventures and lifting sanctions in exchange for cease-fire agreements in Ukraine. ​Business Insider

6. Adjusted Immigration Policies: Implemented stricter immigration controls and revised asylum procedures.​

7. Restructured Federal Agencies: Initiated plans to reorganize agencies to increase efficiency, including dissolving USAID.​

8. Revised Environmental Regulations: Rolled back certain environmental protections to promote energy independence.​

9. Addressed Election Integrity: Signed executive orders focusing on election security measures.​Ballotpedia+2Federal Register+2AP News+2

10. Granted Clemency to Devon Archer: Issued a pardon to the former business associate of Hunter Biden. ​Ballotpedia

Comparing these lists, certain actions by President Trump, such as negotiating economic deals with Russia and adjusting foreign aid, align with strategies that could potentially benefit Russian interests. However, it's important to note that these actions are part of broader policy decisions and may not directly indicate foreign influence. The motivations and implications of each action require careful analysis to understand their impact on U.S. interests and global relations.

​Now...if we redraw that with comparisons of similarities and list in order if importance of damages to America, here’s a structured comparison, ranked by potential damage to America, with similarities highlighted.

Most Damaging Actions (1-5)

1. Weaken NATO Alliances (Putin Goal) ⇄ Reduced NATO Commitments (Trump Action)

   • Trump has signaled a decrease in U.S. support for NATO, questioning its value and suggesting European nations should pay more.

   • Weakening NATO directly benefits Russia by undermining Western military cooperation.

2. Reduce Support for Ukraine (Putin Goal) ⇄ Negotiated with Russia on Economic Deals (Trump Action)

   • Trump has explored lifting sanctions on Russia in exchange for potential cease-fire agreements.

   • This aligns with Putin’s objective of securing control over Ukraine with minimal Western resistance.

3. Lift Sanctions on Russia (Putin Goal) ⇄ Eased Sanctions Discussions (Trump Action)

   • Trump’s administration has debated loosening restrictions on Russia to encourage economic collaboration.

   • This would strengthen Putin’s economy and geopolitical leverage.

4. Foster Domestic Division (Putin Goal) ⇄ Reduced DEI Initiatives & Election Integrity Actions (Trump Action)

   • Policies reducing diversity programs and focusing on election security have fueled internal debates and division.

   • Social instability and political polarization weaken national unity—key to Russian disinformation goals.

5. Control Energy Policies (Putin Goal) ⇄ Rolled Back Environmental Regulations (Trump Action)

   • Rolling back environmental protections encourages fossil fuel dependence, potentially reducing renewable energy investment.

   • A less energy-independent U.S. could lead to future reliance on global (including Russian) energy markets.

---

Moderate Damage Actions (6-8)

6. Undermine U.S. Intelligence (Putin Goal) ⇄ Restructured Federal Agencies (Trump Action)

   • Trump’s moves to reorganize intelligence and government bodies have created uncertainty about their future operations.

   • Discrediting or limiting intelligence agencies aids foreign adversaries by reducing U.S. counterespionage capabilities.

7. Weaken Trade Alliances (Putin Goal) ⇄ Imposed 25% Tariffs on Auto Imports (Trump Action)

   • Tariffs disrupt global trade partnerships, potentially alienating allies and strengthening rival economies.

   • Disrupting international trade agreements benefits Russia by diminishing U.S. economic leadership.

8. Compromise Cybersecurity (Putin Goal) ⇄ Paused Foreign Aid Programs (Trump Action)

   • Halting aid may include cybersecurity-related support to allies, weakening digital defenses against Russian cyberwarfare.

   • A weaker digital infrastructure exposes America to cyber threats from foreign adversaries.

---

Less Immediate but Still Harmful Actions (9-10)

9. Reduce Military Readiness (Putin Goal) ⇄ Reprioritized Defense Spending (Trump Action)

   • While not explicitly reducing military funding, Trump’s redirection of defense priorities could impact readiness.

   • A less agile military benefits adversaries like Russia in strategic planning.

10. Promote Isolationist Policies (Putin Goal) ⇄ America-First Immigration and Aid Policies (Trump Action)

• Limiting foreign aid and focusing inward could lead to diplomatic disengagement.

• This creates a power vacuum Russia (and China) can exploit.

---

​Several of these overlaps between Pres. Trump's actions and policies that align with Russian President Vladimir Putin's interests have raised concerns about prioritizing personal or foreign interests over those of the United States. 

Notable instances include:​

1. Advocating for Russia's Reentry into the G7: President Trump expressed a desire to see Russia reinstated into the Group of Seven (G7), stating, "I'd love to have them back. I think it was a mistake to throw them out." This stance aligns with Putin's interest in regaining a platform within this influential group, potentially easing international isolation. ​POLITICO

2. Praising Putin Publicly: Throughout his tenure, President Trump has consistently offered commendations to President Putin, referring to him as "highly respected." Such public endorsements can bolster Putin's international standing, serving Russian interests by legitimizing his leadership on the world stage. ​Representative Swalwell

3. Negotiating Economic Deals Favorable to Russia: In recent discussions, President Trump and President Putin have explored significant economic collaborations, including joint ventures in Arctic exploration and space projects. These initiatives could lead to the lifting of U.S. sanctions on Russia, directly benefiting the Russian economy while raising questions about the strategic advantages for the United States. ​Business Insider

4. Brokered Agreements Undermining European Security: The Trump administration has facilitated deals that, while presented as ceasefires, have been criticized for heavily favoring Russia over Ukraine. These agreements risk compromising Ukraine's strategic advantages and pressuring European allies, aligning more with Russian geopolitical goals than with reinforcing U.S. alliances and commitments. ​Latest news & breaking headlines

These actions have been perceived by too many analysts as aligning more closely with President Putin's interests, potentially at the expense of U.S. national security and foreign policy objectives. The extent to which these overlaps serve President Trump's personal interests over those of the country remains a subject of ongoing debate and analysis.​

Conclusion?

Oh my God! What in the Hell were we thinking re-electing a malignant narcissist, career criminal, recidivist adjudicated sexual abuser, convicted felon, and fascistic revisionist bigot to the highest office not just in OUR land, but in the most powerful and richest country in the history of Humanity?

Seriously. What is Wrong with US?

While not all Trump actions directly align with Putin’s goals, there are significant overlaps in policies that weaken U.S. alliances, benefit Russian economic and geopolitical interests, and increase domestic divisions.

 Whether intentional or not, these policies shift global power dynamics in ways that Russia could exploit.

With Trump prioritizing personal gain and favor with Putin over national security, democracy, and global stability, America is teetering on the edge of authoritarian demagogery, continuing intentional fascist division, and irreversible decline.

Unless we do SOMETHING. In 2026 we can (and likely will) vote Republicans out. Then in 2028, we can end the Trump MaGA/Republicans' political personality cult and return America to Americans. But we then need to never, ever return to this nonsense. Including never, ever again electing a Trump family member, or any of the Trump Seditionist/Insurrectionist Party members, many of whom are still in Congress today.

Who?

​Several current members of Congress have demonstrated strong allegiance to former President Donald Trump, aligning closely with his political ideology and supporting his initiatives. 

Notable Congressional figures include:​

Senators:

1. John Cornyn (Texas)

2. Ted Cruz (Texas)

3. Josh Hawley (Missouri)

4. Mitch McConnell (Kentucky) – Supported Trump in many areas, though with occasional tensions.

5. John Kennedy (Louisiana) – A consistent supporter of Trump’s policy agenda.

Representatives:

1. Marjorie Taylor Greene (Georgia, 14th District)

2. Matt Gaetz (Florida, 1st District)

3. Lauren Boebert (Colorado, 3rd District)

4. Jim Jordan (Ohio, 4th District)

5. Paul Gosar (Arizona, 4th District)

6. Scott Perry (Pennsylvania, 10th District)

7. Andy Biggs (Arizona, 5th District)

8. Louie Gohmert (Texas, 1st District)

9. Kevin McCarthy (California, House Speaker)

10. Jim Banks (Indiana, 3rd District)

These individuals represent a faction within the Republican Party that has worked to support and advance Trump’s vision, some more vocally than others, but all aligned to varying degrees with his policies and influence.

If we want America back from right-wing extremists, we have to see who they are, recognize what is being done to us, and eliminate them from political or public office, ever again.

Including Trump and his 1st family of criminals. 

Brief aside...

Seeing clearly what must be seen
Steve Schmidt
"2025 marks the beginning of a splendid season of American anniversaries that come in a time of American crisis that is growing greater by the day."

Another...

Toxic Christian Nationalist Evangelicalism has made it into the WH, unseparating it with gov. WH cuts health/vaccinations, adds..."Faith"? America's worst donation to the world, Evangelicalism, already in government & elsewhere, yeah, this is bad.

Remember all those warnings about maintaining a separation between Church and State?
Yes, the attached image is just as crooked as this nonsense from Trump, now also in our WH: The Great Grift Expansion.

​The principle of separating church and state is fundamental to ensuring religious freedom and maintaining a fair, pluralistic society. For a comprehensive exploration of this topic, you might find the following article insightful:​

• "Five Reasons To Be Thankful For Separation Of Church And State" by Americans United for Separation of Church and State

This article outlines key reasons why this separation is vital, including:​

1. Freedom from an Official Religion: Preventing the establishment of a state-sponsored religion protects individuals from potential oppression and ensures that religious institutions remain independent from governmental control.​

2. Promotion of Pluralism: A clear boundary between church and state fosters a diverse society where multiple faiths and beliefs can coexist peacefully, enriching the cultural fabric of the nation.​

3. Protection of Individual Belief: By keeping government out of religious matters, individuals retain the right to choose, change, or abstain from religious affiliations without state interference.​MSUToday | Michigan State University

4. Secular Public Education: Ensuring that public schools remain free from religious endorsements creates an inclusive environment for students of all backgrounds and upholds the integrity of educational content.​

5. Counteraction of Christian Nationalism: Maintaining church-state separation challenges the notion that any single religion should dominate governmental policies, thereby safeguarding democratic principles.​

For a historical perspective, the National Park Service provides an overview of how this principle has been integral to American democracy:​NPS.gov

• "Separation of Church & State History" by the U.S. National Park Service

This resource delves into the origins and evolution of church-state separation, highlighting its role in protecting individual rights and preventing governmental overreach into religious affairs.​

These articles offer a thorough understanding of why the separation of church and state remains a cornerstone of freedom and equality in society.​

Look. We can do better. We just have to want to, to even see that we need to, but it will require ongoing effort to educate and reintegrate those who have lost their way in the great American experiment that has endured for over 200 years. Meanwhile, one major political party has actively worked to undermine it, pushing for Christian Nationalist ideals, fringe beliefs like "accelerationism," dangerous conspiracy theories like "replacement theory," and the misguided goal of transforming our democratic constitutional republic into a fascist, oligarchic, kakistocratic state—one defined by abuse, inequality, and toxic capitalism where only the powerful hold control.

Compiled with aid of ChatGPT