vetting

President Trump just might have a problem with possible ties to Russia. Recently General Flynn, his National Security Adviser, resigned/quit because he lied about a conversations with the Russian Ambassador. Mr. Trump was later asked if "anyone else talk to Russia?" His response was, "Nobody that I know of." It has since been reported that several people associated with his campaign and administration have communicated with Russian officials. The list includes:

• National Security Adviser - General Micheal Flynn, was confirmed, but then quit upon allegation of communiques with Russia.
• Attorney General - Senator Jeff Sessions,talked to Russian ambassador and did not release information during confirmation hearings.
• Campaign Manager - Paul Manafort, forced to resign as campaign manager upon news of his lobbying ties with Ukraine.
• Campaign Adviser - Carter Page,  met with Russian Ambassador.
• Son-in-law and Senior Adviser - Jarad Kushner, met with Russian Ambassador.

I wonder, were inquiries made into these individuals regarding suspicious or controversial business ties? Did Mr. trump know? Or did he chose to not find out?

Vetting is typically performed to determine the suitability of an individual. It appears that Mr. Trump believes it suitable for his campaign staff and administration to have friendly, cooperative business ties with Russia. But what about vetting beyond the subject of Russia? How much vetting does Mr. Trump consider is appropriate for his administration? By the news reports, it appears that Mr. Trump performs little, if any vetting of his political appointees. Please consider:

• Labor Secretary - Andrew Puzder, withdrew due to business record and personal hiring of an undocumented immigrant.
• Secretary of the Army -  Vincent Viola, withdrew due to financial entanglements. 
• Secretary of the Navy - Philip Bilden, withdrew due to financial entanglements.

As for individuals that made it through the gauntlet, please consider:

• Secretary of Housing and Urban Development - Dr. Ben Carson, stated that "immigrants"came to America in the slave ships.
• Secretary of the Dept of Education - Betsy DeVos, has never taught, does not understand basic education measurements.
• Administrator Environmental Protection Agency - Scott Pruitt, denies human contribution to climate change in opposition to agency reports and scientific consensus.

So I wonder, what does Mr. Trump believe in regards to vetting? He is quite happy to yell out that immigrants should undergo extreme vetting. But by all accounts, his friends, the people he wants to lead our nation, do not require any significant vetting. All it takes to be in Mr. Trump's administration is to; a) be an old friend with lots of money, b) belief that Russia is our friend, and c) believe that everything that is said about Mr. Trump is a lie by the corrupt media.