Robert Reich’s reaction to Donald Trump’s U.N. speech:
Trump delivered his first speech to the United Nations General Assembly this morning. Among his comments were these (followed by my annotations):
1. For the cost of resettling one refugee in the United States, we can assist more than 10 in their home region.”
Earth to Trump: That makes no sense. The reason they’re refugees is they can’t be resettled in their home without being endangered or killed. As to costs, your own Department of Health and Human Services has found that refugees have brought in $63 billion more in government revenues over the past decade than they cost, but your White House didn't like this conclusion and, according to today's New York Times, has pulled the report.
2. “Fortunately, the United States has done very well since Election Day last November 8th. The stock market is at an all-time high -- a record. Unemployment is at its lowest level in 16 years, and because of our regulatory and other reforms, we have more people working in the United States today than ever before. Companies are moving back, creating job growth the likes of which our country has not seen in a very long time. And it has just been announced that we will be spending almost $700 billion on our military and defense.”
Earth to Trump: Bragging about the U.S. isn't exactly appropriate in this forum. Nor is self-promotion. And if I were you I wouldn't be touting a gigantic military budget that's bigger than the total military budgets of the next 10 biggest militarized nations put together.
3. “The United States has great strength and patience, but if it is forced to defend itself or its allies, we will have no choice but to totally destroy North Korea. Rocket Man is on a suicide mission for himself and for his regime."
Earth to Trump: If you hadn't noticed, your increasingly incendiary threats against North Korea aren't helping. Perhaps you should take a different tack.
4. “I will always put America first just like you, the leaders of your countries, should put your countries first.”
Earth to Trump: The world is not a zero-sum game. America wins when other nations win.
5. The U.N.-backed Iran nuclear deal is “one of the worst and most one-sided” agreements ever, and “an embarrassment” to the United States.”
Earth to Trump: The deal is better than no deal. If you declare Iran out of compliance, Iran will resume its nuclear buildup.
6. “Major portions of the world are in conflict and some, in fact, are going to hell.”
Earth to Trump: Are you referring to the Trump administration?
By David Nakamura and Anne Gearan
