An excerpt:
Over the past two years there has been a major realignment in American politics with regard to Russia. The Republican Party had always positioned itself as tough on communism and highly patriotic, defending America’s national interests around the world. When the Soviet Union collapsed, it remained staunchly anti-Russian, and suspicion of Moscow was expressed by the two previous Republican presidential candidates, John McCain and Mitt Romney.
During Barack Obama’s second term Russia became considerably more aggressive around the world and more hostile toward the United States, openly stating that it is fighting a war against Washington – and in fact engaging in what could be considered an act of war by hacking the U.S .presidential election.
Yet, Republican officeholders, while sporting flag pins on their lapels, seem to be indifferent to mounting evidence of collusion between the Trump campaign and Russia. More to the point, the party and its donors not only have not turned on Trump but seem to be actively supportive of their leader in his kowtowing to Putin.
This ends our live blogging for May 14. Be sure to check back tomorrow for our continuing coverage.