Angela Merkel is now the leader of the free world, not Donald Trump

[OxQQme]

>"The US President isn’t motivated by protecting liberal democracy or freedom, his sole ideology is Trumpism: corporate autocracy with a populist facade. And he surrounds himself with white nationalists even more hostile to liberal democracy than he is."<

"When Barack Obama revealed that his last phone call as President was to Angela Merkel, reaffirming their alliance and friendship of the last eight years, he wasn’t just saying goodbye. He was handing over his baton. The German Chancellor isn’t just the leader of Europe, she is now the de-facto leader of the free world.

The thrice-elected, soft-spoken former scientist from East Germany, armed with a doctorate in quantum chemistry, doesn’t just carry the weight of Germany and Europe on her shoulders, but that of defending freedom and liberalism across the world.

This is not an attempt to be provocative or exaggerate for effect. Donald Trump cannot claim the mantle of “leading” the free world by default. America’s military might is not the only criteria necessary."<

"And lastly there is the Trump administration’s hostility towards the media. Regardless of its bias, a thriving democracy needs a media willing to challenge the government. Trump isn’t just hostile to criticism, in his warped world it must be driven by lies and vindictiveness. He is wracked by deep insecurity. When his chief aide Steve Bannon says the media should “keep its mouth shut” – they mean it. They don’t want a free media criticising them at all. These are words that dictators use, not democrats."<

more.
with a wonderful picture.
wish I knew how to bring it and post it here.

http://www.independent.co.uk/voices/angela-merkel-donald-trump-democracy-freedom-of-press-a7556986.html

[saidsimplesimon]

1. OxQ

Thank you for the link. My thanks to you and Pete Souza for the message.

I do so miss a no drama, educated, intelligent approach to government for, of and by the people.

[Motley13]

2. A true leader, imagine Angela & Hillary, strong & SMART leaders

I saw several photos of Angela & Obama & her blue eyes twinkled with him.
Also a cute picture of her & W.

putz is such a gillipollas, the whole world is laughing at us.

[briv1016]

3. I think Trudeau is at least worth an honorable mention.

The concept of a singular "Leader of the Free World" is very nationalistic and outdated.