The country has never been through anything like this before.  Not during the Watergate crimes of the Nixon era, not during the sleazy Harding years, nor during the Revolutionary and Civil wars. Never.

Everyday is a new crisis.  Bob Woodward’s bombshell book was 24 hours ago but it’s suddenly relegated to Page 2 after today’s stunner from The New York Times.  A senior official of President Trump’s administration describes, anonymously, turmoil, treachery and chaos in the White House. This official writes, “The root of the problem is the President’s amorality..he is not moored to any discernible first principles that guide his decision-making.” The picture he paints raises serious questions about the President’s mental state.  And the author claims to represent himself and others inside the White House.  

Then later, “Given the instability many witnessed,there were early whispers within the cabinet of invoking the 25th Amendment, which would start a complex process for removing the President.”

Exclamation point. Stop and think–we had all better.  Then read the 25th Amendment.  Every adult citizen needs to know what‘s in it. You can read it here.

Donald Trump blasted the Times for publishing what he called a “gutless editorial.”  White House spokesperson Sarah Sanders issued a statement saying:

“The individual behind this piece has chosen to deceive, rather than support, the duly elected president of the United States,” she said. “He is not putting country first, but putting himself and his ego ahead of the will of the American people. This coward should do the right thing and resign.” 

And soon, the tweets followed.

Where this, the Mueller investigation, and the toxic divisions among Americans over Mr. Trump’s presidency all leads we –none of us–can say.  What we know is this is an uniquely perilous time. We’re going to need all the steadiness and unity that we can muster.