Does America need a wild card like Donald Trump in 2012 presidential race?
FROM CNN's Jack Cafferty:
He's got big bucks, weird hair, a big-time reality show franchise and lots of buildings with his name on them. He's outspoken and has never shied away from a television camera. But does any of that make billionaire real estate mogul Donald Trump a good fit for the Oval Office?
[cnn-photo-caption image=http://i2.cdn.turner.com/cnn/2011/images/04/06/art.trump.jpg caption=""]
He seems to think so. What a surprise.
While he hasn't officially announced he's running for president, he's putting more than his toe in the water.
For one thing, he has managed to reignite the Obama "birther" debate. Trump wants to see an official Barack Obama birth certificate. He says by not producing one he thinks President Obama has something to hide.
Trump is scheduled to speak at several political events in early primary states: a Tea Party rally in south Florida next weekend, a dinner held by the Iowa Republican Party in Des Moines later this spring, and he'll be part of the traditional "Politics and Eggs" breakfast series in New Hampshire in June.
Speaking of New Hampshire, a poll of primary voters in that state shows Trump running a close second to former Massachusetts Gov. Mitt Romney and well ahead of other well-known Republicans.
"The Donald" says some wacky things that likely make political strategists in Washington cringe, but a run by the New York billionaire has the potential to shake up the 2012 presidential race. Some are even comparing his possible entry to the run independent Ross Perot, himself a wealthy businessman, made in 1992. Perot got 19% of the popular vote, running on the platforms of smaller government and greater fiscal responsibility, two issues Trump has talked a lot about. And two issues that still have not been addressed.
Here’s my question to you: Does America need a wild card like Donald Trump in the 2012 presidential race?
Tune in to the Situation Room at 5pm to see if Jack reads your answer on air.
And, we love to know where you’re writing from, so please include your city and state with your comment.
@jackcafferty on Twitter
Sure, why not. He ought to form the "Never Met A Camera I Didn't Like" Party and ask Rudy Giuliani to be his running mate.
Yes!!.... if you want to turn completely the US political arena into a circus...you already have the Tea Party!...
Sure Jack, If we want the rich to get richer and the poor to get poorer.
When Trump was on Letterman awhile back Dave was telling him there are no jobs and people are losing their homes.........Trump said "what these people need to do is research WHERE the jobs are and move there". Dave said but they have no money, it takes money to relocate.
Trumps reply............"Sometimes you've just gotta do what you gotta do".
What a joke. He doesn't have a clue as to what it's like to be an out of work person in this economy. That being said, I really think he's just looking to boost ratings for his television show. If we think the middle income bracket is disappearing now..........just let Trump have a go at us!
Barbara Leavitt~Henderson Nevada
No, American needs to get it's collective heads out of the sand and elect Ron Paul for President. This country will never achieve it's former prosperity until the people finally remember that it was the free market, protection of property rights, and the rule of law, that made the USA a worthwhile project. Without those three things, we have no liberty, and we have no prosperity.
Ron Paul in 2012...
In the rather unlikely event that the GOP nominates a relatively mentally competent candidate (say, a Pawlenty or Romney instead of a Bachmann or Huckleberry)it would be nice if one of their more tragic examples of contraceptive failure staged a third-party effort, thereby assuring President Obama's re-election.
Susan
Tuscaloosa AL
Jack: Donald Trump is always entertaining, but as the President of the United States of America, no way. Mr. Trump has been in and out of bankruptcy court like a kid with a yo yo. We need serious people who want to take this nation forward to a better day. Mr. Trump is not a candidate that can be trusted.
Yes - at least part of the way. Trump takes bold positions which make people answer publically, and often times uncomfortaly directly. There is some common sense missing in the US political process - generally obscured by PC politics. Trump is a breath of fresh air in his unequivocal directness.
The country not only needs a wild card, we need exactly what Trump offers. He is the Ronald Reagan savior for our times! He's got my vote!
Centennial, Colorado
Jack,
America needs fresh ideas! The 'either or' debates of the past two decades have reached a shrillness that is continually degrading our politics and our collective belief in government. We need a 'third solution' ... someone who is focused on real fixes and not too interested or married to the past. We need a forward thinker!
Donald Trump and the majority of the 'explorers' out there now don't fit that description.
Jack, Thanks for asking thought-provoking questions!
Rick,
Medina, OH
America is near the bottom in the world, in reading. Near the bottom in math. Near the bottom in science. And probably dead last in common science and reading comprehension! So, why not Trump, Bachmann, Palin, Limbaugh or Beck for president.This is what the Narcissists/Hoopleheads(Deadwood!!!) are brainwashed into believing what is normal and right!................ Good job, FOX"News"!!
No. What America needs is the exact opposite of someone like Trump running. What we need is someone who intends to end the Corporatacracy instead of feeding it. Someone like Trump ACTUALLY IS the Corporatacracy so electing him simply cuts out the middle man usually played by a Republican or Democrat.
The fact that this country even entertains a Trump Presidency goes to show just how done in we are as a nation.
Donald Trump's ego is too big to be president. He is self centered and it is all about him. If Trump was to become president we would have to call him King Trump because that is what he would act like. The rich and the powerful would receive more tax breaks and more tax incentives if that is at all possible. This man went bankrupt owning a casino, who in the hell goes bankrupt owning a casino?
Jack,Trump is a breath of fresh air,but what we really need is A Chris Christie,Bobby Jindal,or Scott Walker.Although Trump says the right things, these guys know how to do it and stick by their words!
Yes, Donald Trump is a prime example of a true American success story and the American dream. There is a lot of criticism about him, but no one can deny his success in the greatest country on earth.
Obama was a wild card when he ran for president, since he had no experience, never ran a business, and seems to never have had a real job; and don't tell me a"community organizer" is a real job.
We need someone who actually cares about America and will LEAD, for a change.
Why not Trump?
Malver, PA.
WIth candidates like Trump, Palin, and Bachmann, why in the world does Obama think he'll need a billion dollars to win the election?
We need a guy like Trump to rattle the bushes. I would not call him a wild card, I would call him the silent majority president and most of all call him a liberal equalizer. Trump will get things done and done quick.
He won't take any crap from the liberal comedians like Palin does. They will be afraid of him because he can dish it out. I would love to see him run and cut down all those liberal/left wing nuts out there that are milking the system and getting rich by critizing the right.
Lettermen, Moore, Maher will be ridiculed big time.
Trump and Jeb Bush in 2012.
I think we need less wild cards in the race. All these egomaniacs who just like to get themselves on TV distract from the serious questions we need to be asking in a real presidential contest.
Yes, just what we need. Another clown to cause large distractions amongst the ignorant like Palin caused last time. Sorry, but I have seen the decisions he makes on his show, and I wouldn't elect him ever. Horrible decisions. In addition to that he just bragged about how he ripped off Khaddaffi, I don't care what kind of scum Khaddaffi is, if you rip off someone you are dishonest. Doesn't matter who the person is. Trump is a crook and represents everything wrong with America. Rich people trying to take every last nickle from us.
Maybe, and who knows Jack, it's still early in the game, there may be other wild cards and jokers in the political deck that might trump Donald.
Ralph – Corpus Christi, Texas
Sure why not a rich business man who can finish off the poor person. We are already fixing to loose what we have gained and now here are the tea baggers & want to make us loose what we gained. I wonder if England would take me?
Based on the state of our nation..........Trump is just about right for the race. And he plays golf, too.
Does America need a wild card like Donald Trump in the 2012 presidential race?
Frankly Jack, "The Donald" would be to the Republicans, as Ralph Nader was to the Democrats.. A SPOILER.
If he wants that title attached to his name for the rest fo his life it is fine with me. It worked so well for Nader didn't it.
One would think that someone who considers themselves saavy, would remember that Money and Name Recognition didn't work for other CEO's like Meg Whitman, Carly Fiorina, and it won't work for him.
He and his headpiece should just stick to his obnoxious reality show and various guest shorts on FOX Noise.
Jenna
Roseville CA
One has to think back over 60 years to find a legitimate non-politican who ran for the United States Presidency and that was Dwight Eisenhower. His success as a military leader served him well in the White House and Donald Trump's success in business would, no doubt, do the same. The fundamental difference in America then and now is one of demographics. In 1952 the country was primarily conservative white, anglo-saxon protestant. Today it's liberal, liberal, liberal minorities wanting a free ride and those folks wouldn't vote for Donald Trump.
Gary in Scottsdale, Arizona
Sure we need him ... he's yet another politician ready to provide entertainment to the media.
There have always been "wild card" candidates in the presidential races. What is new with the current GOP crop of wild card candidates, is the extraordinary coverage the media gives them. Past examples weren't treated with this same favorable coverage, in fact the media is guilty of making them seem to be a viable candidate for a national election. So Jack, you reap what you sow! The media wanted a show, so that is what they've got. Congrats! Marlene in Mich
America needs REAL leadership. Some of Mr. Trump's ideas could be implemented by the next President if they are toned down and less radical. There is more to being President than spouting off remarks and jabs. Anyone seeking "the highest office in the land" has to have a capitalistic business sense, international understanding, a steady steeliness and at least an empathy of the human condition.
It's embarassing, but I support Donald Trump for what he has said. I'd call his point of view a form of what we used to characterize as 'isolationism' and I favor that, at least to the extent jobs stay in America. Close some bases, for example Frankfurt, and bring the boys home. Fire some people
Personally, I've had wild, and it didn't work out so well. I'd settle for intelligent and compassionate.
In a word : NO! In a couple of words: He's fired. We don't need his brand of egotism.
Electing politicians does not seem to be working too well, so I say why not try something new. At least Trump understands how things work in the real world, and his financial knowledge right about now makes him a serious contender.
It may or may not need a "wild card." But it sure as hell doesn't need Donald Trump if it does. This is the kind of asinine politics that exposes and declares the U.S. government and its people as hollow, shallow, uninformed and apathetic without care or concern for itself or others without a shred of doubt. It has finally been made clear to me how men like Gadhafi, Hitler, and other egotists gained power enough to rule nations. Until now I could not imagine it ever happening ever again. But it is and all it takes is money, media, and celebrity, propaganda and apathy. When people like Bush, Cheney, Palin, and Trump are considered serious candidates for the greatest position in the world with party support and corporate monies, it proves to the world we are not to be taken as a serious government. It merely corroborates foreign opinions of America as a mercenary and frivolous nation. Trump? God forgive us.
Thom Richer
Negaunee, MI
No, America doesn't need a Donald Trump or any other wild card to trump the inefficiency and ineffectiveness of our Congress.. What America needs is to insist on legislature and statue to place term limits on all members of Congress and the ability to impeach members of Congress during any period of the term limit.
No – not when the "wildcards" get more coverage and more campaign contributions than any credible, mainstream, fiscally responsible candidates do. For power rich and greedy types like the Koch brothers, etc – it must be easier for them to keep the less intelligent under control.
The Donald is certainly familar with current Washington subject matter. His corporations have been in bankruptcy twice and both times walked away with no personal liability. He should fit right in
Yes we need some more choices for president. Trump knows business,he also knows what a lousy job Obama has done so far. also Obama wasnt experienced when he came in on this job, and now that he is ,hes worst than ever. Trump would at least do whats best for the country and get jobs,economy going,without spending an taxing us to death ,for useless liberal programs an agendas.also dont think he would appear weak and confused about any and all issues like Obama. so yes we could use him and more strong american people with common sense and business sense ,to lead us back to where we used to be.and Obama an the democrates are not the ones .
I don't know about a "wild card', but we could use an "ace-in-the hole."
Need what do you mean. We have a inexperienced, incompetent. ineffectual president whose raising a BILLION DOLLARS to campaign with. It looks like the presidency is all about money, power & ego. Why do we elect these sociopaths time & time again. We elect people for all the wrong reasons & reading speeches off of teleprompters & the ability to lie isn't one of them. Yea I'd vote for Trump .At least he's got balls & money.
I am glad that I lived when we had people like Sam Nunn, John Warner, Alan Simpson and others I cannot recall their names in our Congress. Today "off the wall" seems to be the trend. I think it came from having lobbyists for companies who basically run our government. Donald Trump! I wish I could think of something basic to say about him. He has jump on the birther bus and that tells us a lot about why we don't need him – because he showed us his birth certificate and it wasn't a birth certificate so he can't read – so we don't need him. Plus I think he is on his 3d wife.
Jack,
Why not Trump,(whose only good idea is tariffs) or Bachman, or ?
We need to be able to compare and contrast the wackos from the those with valid arguments.
The fact that almost 50 percent of all Americans believe propaganda pushed forth by specific right-wing groups presumes we are supposed to believe these narcissists are interested only in helping our country.
When we can compare and contrast , I would like to think the good citizens can WAKE-UP and make a good decision in 2012.
Joe, Binghamton, NY
Jack,
If America wants an apprentice president, Trump fits the bill. If he ran the country the way he has run some of his casinos, the country might have a bigger budget gap with Donald.
The Wharton whiz might have to eliminate all entitlements, military spending and tax breaks. Maybe the Republicans deserve this wild card.
Jack–
No! He's not really going to run any way. He's in it to get attention for himself. The Birther stuff and beating up China is pure nonsense. In a few weeks, he'll be just a distant, distasteful early campaign memory.
If anyone in the United States had a memory that went back before American Idol, they would remember Donald Trump hiring drug addicts to move into, and make tenants move out of, his rent controlled apartments.
Is this what we want in a president?
Harry H. Snyder III
Whiting Maine 04691
"You only need 'three duce's'. For all the paranoia that is running wild in the USA. You need 2. Or maybe you need 2, or you could get another two dummies in your White-House! First it was a Cold War! Then it warmed up to a 'Yellow Peril'. Now it is old 'Al the Kid' that has you running scared. You wnet Hollywood with Regan, then you hid behind the Bush. Then came 'Big Dick Clinton'. . The only real man you elected was a whisky-drinker who took out Dead or Alive Sadam.. So you went Gollywood with Obama. Now you are so scared your all taking your Dolly's to Bed. Be carefull it may be a Pisser!"
Absolutely, Jack! Then we can have an American Idol style call-in vote after each debate and eliminate one candidate every week. I can see Bachman now holding up 4 fingers and mouthing" 4, 4" to the camera. And who better to emcee this circus of unreality than the biggest bonehead of the bunch, the Donald.
Donald Trump has raised questions no other politician will touch. Like, why are our super rich corporations still investing in China, and moving our jobs over there, while we owe China over $500 million a day in debt service (interest) on our loans.
Why do BP executives receive "safety" bonuses for 2010? For that matter, if Wall Street doing so well and getting bonuses why is our money still being transfer to overseas accounts.
Why do we give so much financial preference to other countries needs before our own?
Are we tired of being abused by people just using the United States, like border babies and foreign subsidies?
Can well all work at McDonald's? Really, job creation in this country is temporary, low paying with little or no benefits or part-time.
Trump can at least stimulate the debate about the state of the union without rose colored glasses. I was once very proud to be American,
I guess that is just "old fashioned" now.
I don't think so Jack. The guy is the poster child for bankruptcy because he always over extends his credit. We don't need that kind of financial failure running the country. For such a wealthy man his personal hygiene habits are atrocious. The way he combs his hair he looks like he has a badger on top of his head all the time.
Yes we need a wild card like Donald Trump. It's good for the comedians or the bored Americans. He's something to talk about. As for the sake of the country, we need intelligent and logical people, but for laughs and drama, sure why not Trump?
Sure, why not? I wouldn't vote for him but it would add a nice carnival effect to an otherwise boring election. The media could really get a workout and WE get to fire the Donald before he's hired.
Wild card, joker? Donald Trump is a likable loser. He's the art of the not-so-good deal when it comes to bankruptsy. Sounds like a disease – bankruptsy. OMG, the Donald has bankruptsy. He's not a good fit – and that's just in the suits he wears. Obviously, the GOP has nobody good enough to go up against Obama in 2012. Wouldn't it be something if Obama had a clear path to re-election without anyone from the opposition running against him? Talk about a mandate. YIKES.
Democrats would love it because Trump (and also Sarah Palin) would draw lots of Republican and Independent voters away from the mainstream GOP candidate. I wonder if this means Barack Obama will be donating money to their campaigns.
Donald has been quite successful as measured by his net worth in real estate. His personality is marketable as demonstrated by his resent television exposures, but, I don't personally believe he has a basic understanding of how to run a government and his views while have "sound-bite" merit sound naive. Further, Trump, somewhat like Obama, does not have the network of political alliances necessary to get things done. I believe the current administration is also incredibly naive in both international and domestic affairs; however, I believe Trump would be while certainly different, would be even worse.
The media is painting him as a joke. They did the same with Reagan and he turned out to be one of the best presidents in history. REALLY NOW. Could he do any worse then what we have in there now.
Well the laughter I'll get from listening to Donald Trump say "Vote for me for President" will probably make it worth it. We may as well put a Goldman Sachs exec. in there.
No, the American People need to stop letting the racists who are hell bent on putting a spoke in the wheels of government at every turn, just to make it impossible for a black man to be effective as President, scare us!
At EVERY turn so far in his presidency, Barack Obama has been thwarted by those who use thinly veiled insults to his ability to stop him from accomplishing much. After all, if those who just hate it that a black man is the President are able to stop all progress they can just blame it on his race and unfortuntely many who have the same racist hatred will buy into it.
This is pathetic. and we should ALL be ashamed.
Why not, I would rather have Trump in the White House than what we have now. I want a leader that knows how to run a business and will fire people as well as reorganize into a leaner operation, one that will stand up for America's interest and stop apologizing, one that understands tax payers are footing the bills. Obama fails as a leader and not impressed with the current Republican choices.
Why not?
Any addition to the Presidential gene pool, can't make it any worse than it currently is.
I think at this point in time the American people are desperate for other than a run of the mill President, besides how bad can Donald Trump be. He certainally knows how to handle money, maybe he can do something with our run away budget.
He just needs to do something with his hair.
Obama had his chance.
Why not, Jack? The Republican primary race already looks like a scene from "One Flew Over the Cuckoos Nest." Trump fits right in.
No. America needs a much better and smarter leader than Trump. He would be like a Ringleader at the Circus......loud and arrogant. He needs to stick with his reality show.
I wonder if he checked Evanna's birth certificate before he married her? Probably not, that was the least that was on his mind at the time.
Sad to see a smart guy embracing the "birther conspiracy" to win votes
from the conservative base. It is just like all of those GOP candidates who raised their hands in support of creationism back during the early debates in 2008. Yeah, they have to pander to their run-toting, bible-thumping Fox-watching base, but they also have to win the general election. I'm thinking President Obama will get a second term due to the disarray in the GOP.
Trump would be a welcome addition to a field of "retreads" and "never will happen" candidates. No one from the traditional Republicans or Demos has sparked any interest at all–including our "fearless leader".
YES !!!! We do.
If for no other reason than Donald Trump can teach America what our free enterprise system is all about and how VITAL it is to our existance. It is the "Lifeblood" to everything we have and do as a nation. He can also highlite how DESTRUCTIVE our current tax codes are to our capitalist soceity, our future, the creation of jobs and how little the current administration understands ANY of this. Like almost ZERO.
If America continues to be like a slot machine in a casino then we may need a Trump for a wild card in 2012.
Jack:
Fantastic question. Given the current state of the Government (a Zombie State) how could Trump be a wilder card than, Obama, Bush, a stained dress, a Marilyn Monroe Birthday song...I could go on. I say go for it! Trump themm all !
Donald Trump is a slick willie. He is just making fools of the right wingers.
they are making him famous in a terrible way. He has tried to trash our President. he has made fools of the media, including you Jack. You keep his name in the news so he can promote his next show. Anyone with any savy sence will be turned off by this has been,
President Obama ignores him- perfectly. he is the +PRSIDENT+
If it means rattling both primary and presidential candidates enough into doing stuff that are actually sensible and smart; then yes.
I don't think Trump could ever win, but I would welcome his contribution in the debates - he has made some very intelligent points in recent interviews, about the global capitalist system, which no one else has touched. He's like a lot of politicians - some of what he says makes a lot of sense.
He could be a party booster for both sides. A real contender, not likely. We don't have the luxary of taking an election off by voting in someone who I really don't think wants the job. All candidates talk a big talk, but walk a small walk. He would be no exception. The policy of this country is set, so changing anything of substance would be next to impossible. Mr. Trump would be subject to all the same political rhetoric as anyone else, but would still be just a figure head like those he followed.
It would be interesting to watch him in the debates. I doubt he can get past the primaries but he would be entertaining. He follows in the footsteps of those currently thinking about running on the GOP side with all of their inane statements. There is Newt who was for the no fly zone before he was against it, Bachman who has no concept of US history and Huckebee who thought Obama was raised in Kenya.
No. Nobody needs a selfish Pratt like Donald Rump. His ridiculous contribution to the national discourse is pretending he is a Birther. Way to be a patriot, Daffy. I mean Donald.
It would be interesting and he can afford it. Bob Hope was once asked why he never ran for president. He said it was because his wife, Delores, didn’t think she could live in a house that small. Can Mrs. T downsize or would they just move the Oval Office to Trump Tower?
"The Donald" is not going to run. He cannot afford to release his financials and be publicly humiliated by his actual lack of real wealth, something Ross Perot actually had. Not that he doesn't have more money than most of us, but he's no Ross Perot. Jack – you're FIRED!
At this point what do we have to loose? At least the guy understands you can't spend what you don;t have. No one else seems to.
Trump can't even manage some of his hotels, what makes people think that he can manage a country!
Just because he is in the race, does not mean we have to vote for him. He likes "women". He won't be able to keep his hands clean!!!!
America needs someone who can add 2 + 2 and come up with "4" instead of "whatever it needs to be to get me elected".
The democrats can only hope and pray that Donald Trump throws his hat in, and wins the primary.
Ahhhhh! Sure why not, can't be any worst than Palin. Not much of a Trump fan but I bet he can tell you what he reads.
anything to derail the republicans. And he is not a lot more crazy than the Tea Party members. Could be fun to watch. Trump and Palin, what a toe-cringer, hahah!!
Trump couldn't possibly win, but if he enters he might. Crazier things have happened. So if he does win, imagine having a president with the worst haircut in history. That's what you risk voting for him. Shaming good hair everywhere.
I think Trump is doing a great job of fanning the flames of racism with this birther nonsense. Was his hair made in the U.S.?
I am a big believer in having the country run as a business. I believe that businessmen do better at running government. Michael Bloomberg is a prime example in New Y ork. The City government seems to run better than ever before.
Business leaders, as well as many citizens, belive-wrongly in my opinion-that one can run the Government as one runs a business. This is just wrong headed. If the Donald was President he'd find out quickly the first time he "told" Congress he wanted a bill on his desk by 5 PM. He's an egotisical publicity hound!
The entire field of republican candidates are wild cards, so The Donald will be just one more in the mix. I say bring it on; it will assure Obama a win in 2012.
Only IF he plans to have Sarah Palin for his V.P.! The presidential debates would be a wonderful comedy show that would draw millions just for the laughs!
well as someone who is moderate i would love to see him run. im sure that if he did he would split the vote and assure that the republicans wouldnt win.
Jack,
... not a "wild card"... more like a crazy card... what a laugh he'd be representing the USA... it takes more than money. Really, Jack!
Joan in NYC
This is the most ridiculous thing I have ever heard of. Trump thinks money will buy him anything he wants even the presidency. I hope America says to Donald Trump, You're Fired, before he even gets started!!!
Yes, Jack, we need Trump to run for president!
This country needs more "smoke and mirror" politicians – there aren't enough of them in Washington.
Ray H.
Brookline, MA
America doesn't need anyone like Donald Trump running. When the wild card is the kind of businessman that drove us into the financial crisis in the first place, whose entire business was speculative real estate, who filed bankruptcy three times, whose entire political strategy is to lead us more and more back to the policies that lead to the financial ruin of america, wen the wild card is that kind of person we'd be better off without it.
I would most definatley vote for Trump as he seems to be the only one that can get things done. And do not be surprised if he ask someone that just happens to be at cnn ? as his running mate. We no he is not running for the money or the noterity. he has that
The United States is not an all for one business it is for all,no he doesnt fit.
Hey...at least Trump has a built a fortune....and an empire. He is a known variable to our Presidential race. If he runs on the Republican ticket, he's got my vote.
Whether I vote for Trump or not remains to be seen. However, I firmly believe having a wild card in the 2012 is better than re-electing a joker.
Jack,
Of course we do. In this day and age, America has become exceedingly disengaged from politics probably attributed to frustrations with government gridlock and closed-door political activity. Trump running as the wild card will by-pass the intricacies of politics and elections and generate interest for both die-hard politicos and the reality-tv-crowd. More interest means more participation which means better representation of electorate views come November 2012. Enter Trump to bring in the needed interest, despite the ardent lack of credibility.
Although I personally think that Trump would make the run for President "entertaining"...I shudder to think he would actually make it to the White House. He is way too far from being 'diplomatic" for me. He doesn't know when to shut-up, pushes too many buttons and is possibly a great threat to the poor, disabled and seniors of our country.
No! Donald Trump is a blowhard who inherited the money he then used to get more. He is condescending about others who are not in his privileged position. He's a braggart who whould be a loose cannon in foreign relations.
They may as well have Trump as a wild card because nothing could be wilder than Sarah Palin.
Yes, if the U.S. can file for bankrupty and not have to pay china back for all that money we have borrowed from them. Then like he did we can forfiet the responablity of our porblems to the court.
Donald Trump is too busy in self promotion to even bother with the concerns of the Americans. Just one more Corporate stature in removing democratic policies and torpedoing our constitutional rights. Exactly what America does NOT need
How many people are going to donate money to a rich guy. The pompadour is not Ross Perot. Maybe he and Palin could run. The Wassila and the gorilla.
Trump touts himself as a great businessman. Lately he's been thumping his chest about how he accepted Khaddafi's rental money then cheated him. In a world where a man's word should count for something, does anyone really consider Donald Trump worthy of consideration as anything other than a self-confessed sleaze?
Absolutely !
He will find out if Obama is a natural born citizen, get rid of our national debt, secure our borders, get us the medical insurance our Senators, Congressmen and Predudent have at the price they pay and lower the price of gasoline.
I think that he should run. It would be an interesting race to see who would win the republican nominee. He definatly could help the economy to stabilize, after he owns everything else in the country and turns it into something tackey
YES, I believe that the U.S. really needs a bully right now. Donald Trump is no doubt a giant business bully, HOWEVER, he has been very successful using this approach. The US has NOT had a bully since Roosevelt. I dislike Donald, but what he says makes a ton of sense. I think we need to be a bully for at least four years. He will negotiate better deals for us with most any other country around. Now we have presidents that just go with the flow, and never lay the law down. All of our import/export deals with overseas countries, really are one sided. And short, on our side. HE could without a doubt, renegotiate trade laws, more favorably for the U.S. thanks
Need has nothing to do with it – we have what we need, the right for anyone 35 and native to run for the job. He might well be as good as any of the past four or five.
Gotta hand it to the guy, he’s getting tons of free publicity for his little TV show. And you guys are suckers for giving it to him. Thought you were smarter than that.
What everybody seems to have forgotten is that Barrack Obama's mother is an American citizen. She could have given birth to him on a cruise on the Mediterranean, and he'd still be a U. S. citizen!!!! People travel all over the world from America, visiting relatives, etc., and if they happen to be pregnant and go into labor, they still have an American child!!! What's wrong with these birther people?? Have they all lost their minds? Besides, he WAS BORN IN HAWAII!!! Get over it, Republicans!!!!
The Trump, Palin, and Bachman presidential self promotion along with the new budget proposal by the Repulicans only documents further proof that what the insincerity of the Right offers most to America is just empty blah-blah.
America needs a third option because neither the Republicans nor the Democrats are representing the American People well. Both parties are too far to the Right or Left of Center, respectively.. This is exactly why we have the current stalemate in Washington.
Even so, sadly, his stalemate is preferrable to giving either party full control of Government.
We need more oderate politicians in control of Government. Can Donald steer us as a country in this direction? Lets see what his thoughts and plans are.
I certainly hope not...but he may be smarter than the other republicans who are interested. At least he didn't leave a wife who was fighting cancer..he is not quite as stupid as Sarah Palin and he does have more cash than Rommney who will try and teach us middle class citizens how well we have it.. With the republicans we now have in congress as well as the republican fools here in the State House in New Hampshire I will never vote republican again...and this from a Goldwater...Nixon fan.
I can hardley wait for this one...I think
Donald Trump's entry into the race would guarantee an Obama second term. He looks like a stuffed derma with a comb over. He is a dilletente of the largest proportions. His ticket should include Sarah Palin for the greater amusement of Americans bored with television.
I don't think I'd vote for Mr. Trump. I would like the Washington Monument keep that name. I also would not like another monument next
to Lincoln's.
sure why not, but we will have to wait till the day before elections to know which party he's going up for
Watching the news on CNN today and the possibilty of Trump running for President doesn't do much to make any of us in the middle class feel any more secure than we were before. He has too much money, how in the world can he even begin to relate to us, the middle class. He's never had to watch his pennies, buy groceries, worry about the mortgage or any other day to day item. He' d never get my vote.
Why don't all the senators and congressmen cut their entitlements to balance the budget? Why is it always up to the working class to be the ones who have to shoulder the burden of their huge mistakes. We should vote every dang one of them out of office, none of them are worth a thing. Disappointment is huge out there across the nation, and I think there will be another upheaval at the polls in 2012.
Point: Donald has every right to run. And in a world where Tea Parties and Birthers are a part of our politics, it is only right that he step up and represent them.
Counter point: It won't take much for most to see what the comb-over is hiding... a great empty space.
Why not Jack? Just think, if Trump actually wins then comb-overs will become fashionable and even you can grow one!
Ray H.
Brookline, MA
No. I see nothing in Trumps past that would qualify him for my vote...no public service, no involvement in anything, except shameless self promotion and personal advancement. Even his business experience is more akin to TV wrestling than respectable corporate dealings.
The US and Canada could use more businessmen like Trump in office instead of lawyers. All they do is argue and nothing gets done. Hmmm, the government run like a business, I like the sound of it.
Jack; More than concern of Donald Trump possibly running for the presidency is my concern how our current president(who I voted for and helped during his campaign) can unabashedly announce that he will be raising ONE BILLION DOLLARS for his reelection campaign!!! MY GOD! Peolple are out of work- losing their homes- children going hungry in this wonderful country of ours. Sham e on him and shame on the legislators who cannot come to any agreement on the voting before them now!!!!!!!
Do we need another greedy, tacky, unfaithful, womanizing, out of touch with Americans, Obama-hating Republican? Do we have a choice? First, I'll like to see his birth record...actually he's kinda creepy.
absolutely not, i think that he needs to understand that business and politics are 2 different things and are very much different, the man doesn't have any qualifications politically to run the country. He also has a lot of ignorance in him and he just showed the whole world that by bringing up the obama birth certificate issue again!!
He's bold and the only one to be making any sense so far. We need a president who is a leader....not a puppet who wants to be everyone's best friend. Trump is successful so why not use his savvy talent to run this country like a business rather than a goat rodeo? The past three years have only yielded shortcomings for our great nation.
The wild card we need is Obama losing. This from a black American man. Obama wrote in his book "The Audacity of Hype, my bad I mean hope (lol), that should the political winds change (and they are changing) he would side with the Muslims. Fact check that and let it sink in. Kindly post all this from Glenn Bell in Fort Worth, Tx 76115.
Trump is a brilliant businessman but lacks the skills and patience needed to be the leader of a nuclear power. Unfortunately, he is making himself look really stupid with all of the birther bologna. I hope he continues his campaign; wasted republican efforts like this work in Obama's favor.
Our current president is intelligent and articulate. Unfortunately he is not a leader. I am disgusted with both parties. Donald has proven himself to be a leader. Can we find any others? Until we can he is worthy of consideration. The card is not as wild as you think!
No, the Union does not need a wild card like Trump in 2012. We certainly don't need a President that's learned the fine art of bankruptcy.
Trump does not know any thing about politics and would not be suted to be president and he would kill us all and he would make us more in debt
Hey there,
I like Trump, i don't care for his birther crap, but like you i think this is part of his big picture. Smart businessman, tarrifs on China, ending all wars and foreign aid. If we don't fix America we're not going to be helping anyone in the future....he might just fit the ticket.
He has made a fortune to himself and is very successful but I don’t feel he would be a good leader for a country. If he were to get in office I think it would be his celebrity status that gets him in, people like his personality. If it were to become a candidate it would be a huge mistake for the GOP.
Well, he thought about running for President before, but now, things have changed.....he finally has an audience (teaparty) that will actually listen to him if he says the right things. And let him have Bachman as his Vice President and Sarah to cover our foreign politics. You have to admit, it would be fun to watch!!!
If Donald Trump runs, it will be great for TV ratings and make for some entertaining, hair raising (rreally) politics. If he wins, I look forward to renting an overpriced non refundable plot for my tent from him and above all I want to see his birth certificate.
The best thing about The Donald I have seen is his position on China and his ideas on negotiations in the international business world sounded good to me also... but as far as him dealing with all the other things that are important ..... that's where things could could go either way. Maybe it would be good for him to shake things up for four years and try to get us strong again. God help us all if he makes it.
Ok, so the uber libs don't take real people seriously. You have to be an experienced politician who is just looking out for the people and not just the RICH right?
So whey as Obama voted in? He never had a real job that could qualify him to be president, unless you consider community organizer a real job. But experience...He was a freshman Illinois senator and then a us senator with little experience. Yet people, because of the big liberal media push, gave him props. Oh...I did forget, Obama is against the rich. Hmmm...One of his best buds and economic advisors is CEO for General Electric Immelt's company paid Zero Taxes!!!! Hmmmm...talking from both sides of your mouth Mr. Obama?
Yes, I would vote for Trump. You have to be a fool or (yes, I'm going to say this) a racist to vote for Obama again. Will the black man vote for him just because he's black or because he's so much better of now than he was when he got elected. We need a business person who won't bow to special interests, left or right.
you know jack this seems like and episode from boardwalk empire. "just run any guy that will get rid of the democrats" or maybe gangs of newyork when the federation of native americans didnt like the so called "foreign hordes" the answer is simple to me. you are granted an interview if your resume shows experience. hey donald stick to the craft that you mastered, and let the real republicans leaders please stand up.
Jack, I totally agree with your for once, Hillary Clinton would win if she ran against O'Bama, she would stay in Washington and work and not hob nob all over the country with that 747 that cost us a fortune every time it leaves the ground with the cast that has to follow for any reason you can think of to get out of Washington. Hillary is well respected in every country and cares about us. She is smart and has way more experience than Obama and is not afraid to say what she thinks about anything to anybody. I would vote for her again and was very disappointed that she lost the last time.
Somebody needs to provide a laugh. At least FOX hired him for doing his act, maybe he's up to replace Glenn Beck which pays more than being President. After all, he is "the Donald".
Would he sell the White House? Maybe he would add a few(many) floors.
We need a highly capable person who has a record of getting things done without deficit spending and who is outside the political arena and legal profession. Trump meets this criteria. Run Donald, run!
Absolutely NOT! Trump's a businessman; he'll favor policies that benefit the rich at the expense of the working class and poor in America. That was the same reason Ross Perot ran back in '92. Guys like Trump and Perot just don't care about us; all they want is absolute power and a free ride for their cronies in this country's corporate boardrooms.
What America does need is for both parties to stop fighting, and work TOGETHER to solve the problems we all face. We won't make any progress until that happens.
Yes, I believe a businessman like Trump is just what America needs. Someone who has worked and succeeded in the business world and can bring those philosophies to government. Someone who has to value what his suppliers and customers do and require. Someone who can view the probable results their actions may intell. These are things most career politicians are out of touch with.
Absolutely. Another Republican clown is exactly what we need. He can run with Sarah, they can try to make sense out of each others rantings, and then the Democrats breeze back into the White House.
YES. What America needs right now is someone to keep everyone else on their toes. Plus would have some pretty good ideas about the economy. I could not immagine Trump's America with a trillion dollar deficet.
I don't feel most americans will take this guy seriously, maybe in the beginning a flash in the pan, but his this flash will disappear as quickly as it appeared as he continues to open his mouth with outrages statements.
Mr. Cafferty,
I've always found "The Donald" to be fearce and agressive. He does speak loud and wants to be heard. If anyone can rock the boat he can, and I believe you can too Jack. If either one of you run in 2012 you'll have my vote. Roll the dice!
Donal Trump is full of hot air. I don't think he will run-he is all show and thinks he is sooooo smart. Didn't he go bankrupt more than once?
As for him bringing up the "birther" think-tells me he is trouble.
I have a friend who had 3 children born in Hawaii-–will they have trouble when they grow up--proving that they were born in Hawaii.?
Jack,
Wild card, yes and no. Not someone like Trump. We need, NEED, a real and serious third party, The Common Sense Party for the 40-50% of us stuck between these two oppossing polarized political parties. (yeah say that five times fast). My daughter Morgan is 20 now and, unfortunately, her definition of "poly-ticks" still holds true.
Trump is a business man, NO Jack he doesn't stand a chance. OBAMA need four more years to finish the job at hand.
Trump lost me at "Obama's birth certificate".
Nothing better could happen for Our country to have Donald Trump to enter the race. With him, Palin and Backmann as follow ups. Obama wins, having the Democrats take back the power in congress. Then Obama would have four years experience, raise taxes on the rich and pay off the debt and give America back its dignity.
A third party candidate is how we got Clinton and we are STILL dealing with them. No, we do not need Donald Trump.. We need a REASONABLE person as our President and, so far, there isn't one, on either side.
Yes! he would be a good wild card. I can not stand Donald Trump's arrogant personality..but.. it often takes an egotists like Trump to get things done. I think he would do a good job as President, and once he has our country back as number one in the world agian. we can vote him out
Let's play a hand of 5 cards stud. I have 2 Palin and Trump as a wild card. You Jack have 2 Obama only. Sarah Palin wins. Of course he can be use as a wild card.
Trump is a businessman, exactly what America needs right now tto get this huge debt off our back.
yes, a third party cadidate like Trump would make Obama an easy winner in the general election. ask B Clinton how that works.
After his multiple encounters with bankruptcy court,,,,,ya I want him to run. If he isn't capable of keeping his personal affairs in the black, he probably shouldn't be trusted with Americas checkbook, it is already in bad shape. These baffoons that are jumping in the ring are just making Obamas slide so much steeper!
P.S. With all that money, why the silly hair, and make-up that really doesn't serve a beneficial purpose. Uuuugh!
Why not? As our economy looked more like a casino for the past few years, he seems to be the perfect fit. He's expert at bankrupting casino businesses, he can run another one nose down and make us feel like we had fun. Our pain will come later, well after he's gone. But wait a minute: aren't we used by now to entertain all kinds of clowns running for president?
I think it would be great if Trump ran, imagine a president with a lower I.Q. than George Bush. Trump is a total joke and would make the U.S. the laughing-stock of the world.
I'm a liberal who's beliefs go quite a ways to the left of even the most liberal minded democrats in Washington and I will admit that I was actually very interested in Trump as a candidate. Mainly because I feel that a self made bilonare could do alot to get our economy back on track an start working to eliminate the deficit despite the games that career politicians insist on playing with our tax dollars. However Mr. Trump lost me when he began announcing in interviews that he is willing to do business with anyone and that we should simply conquer countries like Iraq, that require military assistance. Rome fell for a reason Mr. Trump!
Yes, Yes. Yes. He at least says what he would do to get this country back on the right track
I have seen tons of political stuff come and go in front of me.....never felt overly strong, just did what I thought was right for life in general......my husband was in the service, at the pentagon for 43 years, and I am still here, to vote..................if Donald Trump runs, I will vote for him regardless of anything else.......he is THE man, under all that bravado.........this country made it possible for him to do and have all that he himself could not get, on his own.........He IS someone who owes the USA and he knows it........I believe he cares about that much deeper than anyone realizes........sure there is alway a financial side to any man, but this one owes it to freedom and the USA and he cares enough to bring it home for all of us.......I know tons will disagree, and I know, I believe, the USA gave me that and I have the right to believe one more time............I probably won't see another election, but this one I am going all out for the DONALD.....................thank you for having the situation room and Jack, what would we do without them?
He's got way more going for him that our current resident president! What qualified this president for the position? We all know now, nothing but big bucks behind him! I'm for Trump!
Trump is Obama's secret weapon for Obama's political brackets. Trump will misslead, divide, and confuse the Republican base. The Republican primary will be a feasco. The hate speak will be flying, and anybody that doesn't run to the extreme right will be smashed in the polls. Any serious candidate will be eliminated, with just Trump and Michelle Bachman left standing. Trump will then say something sexist and lose to Bachman in the primary. I can't wait to see Michelle Bachman debate Obama in the National Championship!.... Priceless!
Sure – I can't think of anyone more qualified to speak about "fiscal responsibility" than a guy whose businesses have gone broke more often than his supporters change their underwear. He's also a great voice for the sanctity of marriage, seeing as he's had a few like Newt...
No. Trump just wants more and more attention 24/7 PLUS. He is like a spoiled child who has all the cookies in the jar and wants more, Stop it with feeding this guy with attention overload disorder.
Yes. At this time, there is noone worthwhile on the horizon. Of course when we knowmore aboutTump, he may not qualify.
If the American People are stupid enough to vote Obama back in for a second term, then they deserve what they get. The Republicans are showing to be a sorry bunch, too. Unless a miracle happens. I'm voting Independant. So, if Donald runs I will vote for Him!
Donald Trump is far from a wild card and more of an opportunist if anything. And like all opportunist, they will exploit and exhaust all resources to obtain what it is they seek. Donald Trump seeks money and would use the President's seat as stepping stool to get richer after he left office.
What makes King Donald think that he is capable of leading the country?
He has no idea of what makes our economy run. The GNP is not entirely composed of "Housing Starts" as he prominently mentioned in a recent TV sound bite nor can it be run like his silly TV program. You can't deal with people or countries by telling them they're fired. There are millions of homes vacant right now and King Donald thinks we need more. What is his plan, sell them to our trading partners? He needs to get out of his golden towers and see how the real world works. It might help to get a decent haircut too.
Donald Trump has made mistakes and many people don't like his attitude. If only the same people will think about how rich he is because he bounces back everytime a human mistake is made. He puts his pants on one leg at a time. I can see a possible win in 2012.
donald trump has feelings of grandeur! someone whould tell him that hawaii is a state!
i saw him on THE VIEW last week saying hge wanted to see his birth
certificate (by the way, Obama is the only president who has ever been asked to show a birth certificate.} the next day THE VIEW showed his hawaiian certificate on the tv.
that doed not stop trump from associating himself with the birthers and the tea party.
what idiocy!
Absolutely not. We already have a conniving, egocentric, lying
president. I hope we have learned to not even consider the
same type of individual.
Trump is a suit of hot air and devious business practices. Specifically,
he has lost so much money for his investors; yet he continues
you to be on top. Kind of like the unaccountable Washington
creatures.
To me, he sounds like the present occupant of the Oval office.
He is simply a distraction which the media will use to divide
Republicans.
Sure, he has the right. But he's only going to take away votes from other front runners. Well, that is if he is in fact a REAL U.S. Citizen!
Sure. We could use a little comic relief in the campaign!
Why not ? You have to check your brain at the door, not your money, when you jump into the race. Just appeal to the lowest common denominator and you have a chance in the primary. He was parroting Bill O'Reilly's line that there is a Muslim problem, on O'Reilly's show. Forget the fact that according to Rand Studies and State Department Reports (2006), only 25-30% of all terrorist incidents worldwide are committed by Muslims, the rest by Non Muslims. What do you expect when he wants to see the President's Birth Certificate ?
Not doubt that, Donald Trump is a successful business man, how ever, he lacks strong political abilities that could resonate with the American people, specially, this president has tremendously succeded in jump starting the economy and creating alot of jobs and also signing the health care into the Laws which will make it harder for any the candidates running against him in the next presidential election.
Donald Trump? I'd rather elect Forest Gump.
I was never a true Obama supporter because I felt his ideas on change were too Utopian and less realistic in an age of high school, partisan politics.
Hilary Clinton was a better, more prepared candidate who let her husband mess things up for her campaign and isn't a seasoned fundraiser and public speaker like Bill. However; it would be interesting is to see her challenge Obama again in 2012.
As far as Republican/Independent nominees go, I would like to see Bobby Jindal or Mike Bloomberg take a shot at it.
No. We do not need a self inflating ego maniac in political office. We have more than enough already, thank you. Take your own advice before you start Donald... Fire yourself.
If Donald Trump was president in 2012!? Jack..... that would be awesome! Dude, that would be the funnest thing ever, if Trump was president, it would be so fun!!
Give me a break! Maybe some of his tv audience would vote for him (if they know how to vote) but outside of the lunatic fringe he's appealing to the only one taking Trump seriously is Trump.
Nope. It is a joke already.
When people like Sarah Palin and Michelle Bachman can get elected, we've completely dumbed ourselves down. Mr. Trump would only add to that.
We may be the strongest nation in the world with many aspiring to come here and be us. But our election process has made us the laughing stock of the world.
Anyone that 'wears' a dead squirrel on top of his head can not be taken seriously. Besides who in their right mind thinks that Trump would actually fill out a financial disclosure form?
Mr. Trump makes some really good points when addressing the issues of China, Iran and OPEC. Does he need a little less blunt and a little more polish, yes. But I like his directness and he would not being running for president to improve his political stance. If he puts the right people around him who have the international experience and the political savvy to keep him out of too much trouble, I believe it would work for him and the country. God knows it can't get any worse!
Piqua, Ohio
no, no, no. No more combovers, not more birthing lies, and no more used up, has beens that just want to make more money for themselves.
Donald Trump + self-induced ego = Charlie Sheen + drugs = one and the same. How good is that for our country?
America needs ANYBODY but the sorry excuse for a leader we have in the white house now.
I don't care who runs against him.. I would vote for satan himself if it would get obongo out of office.
Donald Trump? Michelle Bachmann? Sarah Palin? Of course they should all run. They are all (presumably) native-born citizens over the age of 35, and that's all the Constitution requires. On the other hand, God help the USA if any of these yahoos gets anywhere near the White House, except on a guided tour.
Winston Chirchil was right when he said that the best argument against Democracy is a 5 minute conversation with the average voter. Too many of the folks who've posted here prove it...
Feel free to insult him, remove the "T" to obtain "Rump". The Real Estate Pimp has discovered that his double digit IQ can dupe the single digit IQ populous with ease. Don't let him tour the White House without counting the silver, and guarding the First Lady and daughters. He's trash.
Trump for president?????You bet!!!!The country needs someone who actually has the backbone to lead and to call it like it is!!!! Issues liking dealing with china,the trade imbalance,taking a stance with opec;these issues need to be addressed by someone who will even up the playing field!!!! Go Donald Go!!!!!
Jack,
Donald Trump could never understand what it's like for the poor or middle class in our country. So many people are still out of work and families are going hungry each night. This should not be still happening in our country. I plan on voting for President Obama because he is our only hope for helping the middle class and poor, once and for all. It would be truly a reason to celebrate should Palin get the nod for the Republican party.
Come on does anyone really believe this boob is going to run for president?, He is like all other media w hores that needs to be on TV
as much as possible. Really, this is a story?
At 86 years and a fan of Jack:
Am disappointed about your blog on Donald Trump,your negativeness
shows.
Ask yourself :If Donald was a Democrat would I feel the same about
him.
Disappointed on Cpe Cod...
I am always for new ideas but I am very skeptical of Trump. He has talked about lowering taxes on people in his income bracket and getting rid of important needed regulation. Trump's agenda sounds way too much like one that would help those who are best off. At least Perot had ideas that spread the sacrifice out to everybody.
Never in a million years. Though I did like that Trump mentioned American protectionism. If he gets other candidates to think and talk about it, he has served his purpose. After that, he's fired.
It is a free country. My brother says perhaps we could do worse. I think Mr. Trump is about as worse as it gets.
Sure, he has filed and come back from bankruptcy how many times? After the current administration drowns us in debt we are going to need someone with bankruptcy experience to pull us thru.
Yes, he is exactly what we need – a third world dictator. He already has all the crazy hair, bevey of babes, offspring from several different women and several palaces, plus he can buy his own military.
How many times has Trump been in bankrupcy and pulled himself from the brink of destruction. I think its about time we have a businessman who knows how to make money run this country instead of the politicians that just know how to spend money. He has my vote.
You would think that with all the money spent on the elections in the US, you guys could find better candidates. I mean really a guy who made the comment that went something like "Bankruptcy is very legitimate part of business and should be used to gain advantage" as president. Your countrymen may know what things cost; but have no idea what value is. Spend less on the elections and put the money to good use, rather than try to pick from cadre' of sharks, zealots, and uneducated.
Trump has proven himself to be a real idiot. Is he actually going to try to run for the presidency on the "birther" ticket? Another foolish man!
Yes, it does. Obama is too conservative and the Republicans are cavemen,. Looks real bad for America. But Trump is not smart, lacks education, immature, uninformed, bully.
Why not! He is an accomplished business professional who has built an empire on brains, hard work and guts. What qualifications did President Obama have that made him qualified for the office? Did he ever run a corporation? Sure he graduated from Harvard, but Trump is Wharton grad.
Enormously unqualified and a publicity hound second to none. Can't we do better in this country than elevating empty people like Donald Trump to God-like status. Sad Jack that you're even writing about it.
Not this Trump. Thats all he is stirring up is fear and racism. America needs to be focused on grave issues and not the past prejudices that only divides us.
Absoluetly yes. He might even make up for the sad excuse of a president we have now that is ruining the country.
Here is the problem with running, he cannot win. If history has taught us anything, he will merely take away votes from the Republican Party and serve as a distraction, unless he somehow manages to get the unlikely support of the Republican Party, which will more than likely think he is too outspoken anyway. Perot caused the Republicans to lose office in 1992, Theodore Roosevelt and the Progressive Party caused the same issue in his day, this is a reoccurring event, and it tends to end in a Democrat(in this case Obama) being reelected. Unless he gets the Republican Party's full support and backing, he will have just as good a chance of winning as Charlie Sheen.
I just don't see trump as any kind of political leader, but I would give anything to see Turmp at his Inaugural Ceremony tell Obama "You're Fired!".
In 2012, I will be voting for anyone but Obama. I don't care if it is Beavis and Butthead as long as we get someone who actually cares about America and its legal taxpaying citizens.