Does GOP have ‘red line’ for president’s actions?

Dear Editor: With the bombing of Syria and the ominous standoff with North Korea, the term “red line” is appearing often in the news, mostly related to foreign policy disputes. But let’s direct the term to the domestic front and, more specifically, to our Republican members of Congress. As our chief executive dismisses the standards expected of all previous presidents, as he flouts the Constitution, when will he cross their red line?

His refusal to release his tax returns reverses past practice of all recent presidents. The contents of the returns might be highly germane to the congressional investigations of Russian interference in our election or to tax legislation that could enrich Trump’s empire. His businesses continue to reap enormous profits, benefitting from his “brand.” Many, including those challenging his profiteering in court, believe he is violating the emoluments clause of the Constitution. Trump, the billionaire, charges taxpayers over $3 million for each excursion to Mar-a-Lago.

How about general incompetence? A host of unfilled staff positions, failed legislative initiatives (Trumpcare), dizzying policy flip-flops, and the tweeting!

A cynic might guess a number for the red line of Republican congressmen — 30 percent. When his approval rating drops into the 20s, will their righteousness finally be drawn in crimson? Will they suddenly find their moral indignation and discover the danger he poses to our democracy? Only then? Or will 31 percent and above cement their legacy as two-bit actors eager for a role in a madcap farce?

Tom Denton, Highland