We must question the competence of this president and administration when such a large number of Trump’s campaign and administration officials have either pleaded guilty or been convicted of felonies for bank fraud, money laundering, tax evasion, campaign finance violations, and lying to the FBI/ Congress.

Trump’s campaign manager, Paul Manafort, was sentenced to 7.5 years. Trump’s deputy campaign manager, Rick Gates, is awaiting sentencing for “conspiracy against the U.S.” Trump’s National Security Advisor, Michael Flynn, is awaiting sentencing for making “false statements to the FBI.” Trump advisor, Roger Stone, was indicted for allegedly lying about his efforts to contact WikiLeaks during the Campaign and tampering with a witness.Michael Cohen, Trump’s lawyer, pleaded guilty for violating campaign finance laws, and Cohen indicated Trump directed him to do so.

Mueller’s investigation also indicted 13 Russian nationals, three Russian companies and 12 Russian intelligence officers related to propaganda and hacking of emails in efforts to influence the 2016 election to help elect Trump.

William Barr’s summary indicates Mueller’s report did not specify that Trump or members of his campaign conspired with the Russian government in Russia’s election interference. However, the report (contrary to Trump’s claims) did not specifically exonerate Trump of guilt for the crime of obstruction of justice.  There are also numerous, additional on-going investigations that are looking into alleged crimes by Trump and his organization.

The public requires full transparency and release of the actual conclusions of Mueller’s full Report, not simply William Barr’s four-page report interpretation.

There is still much to learn.  Is Trump guilty of obstruction or other crimes?  How do we explain Trump’s placement of so many dishonest individuals in key administration positions: corruption, complete incompetence or both?  Either way, our country deserves better.

Ken Peterson

Buchanan