The Indianapolis Motor Speedway has officially announced that Donald Trump is out as pace car driver at this year's Indianapolis 500.
Further, Trump's statement indicated that he won't even be here for the race.
"I very much appreciate the honor, but time and business constraints make my appearance there, especially with the necessary practice sessions, impossible to fulfill," Trump said. "I look forward to watching the race from New York."
Anyone out there actually believe that those are his reasons? And that the decision has anything to do with "business constraints" and nothing to do with the mounting tide of opposition?
Nonetheless, I'm now looking forward to a 500 that's more about the fun and festivities and less about Trump's ego. And I'm glad to say that the 500 folks did the right thing (Oh, wait, this was Trump's decision. I forgot.)
And now I'm looking forward to the rest of May.
Your thoughts?
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Very glad he's gone.
You can speculate all you want about my politics. My objection to Trump--going back to the original announcement--has to do with his me-me-me lust for attention and his lack of connection to the 500. His obnoxious actions since then just support that. I was perfectly happy with Gen. Powell. I wouldn't have objected to former Pres. Bush (either one). Ideally, though, this should be someone with racing in his or her blood.
Respectfully,
Lou Harry
I doubt any Navy SEALS would be allowed to do it, so go with the next best choice... A.J. Foyt!
Your politics are crystal clear here. If your argument for this topic were only that the pace car driver should be associated with the 500, then Trump's recent activity and comments shouldn't have any bearing. Your description of Trump's recent actions as "obnoxious" clearly illustrates your political position in this matter - a position I clearly disagree with. The ONLY REASON anyone has had any issue with Trump driving the pace car was because he demanded proof of the President's citizenship. To be quite honest, I think we should take more time to verify all of our politicians qualifications - if we had done so with Charlie White, we wouldn't be in the situation we're in now. Just my two cents worth. Have fun at the race.
You insist on seeing things black and white. Well, save that for the checkered flag. Truth is:
1. My initial post came long before I heard anything about Trump pushing the birther issue.
2. I believed Trump was obnoxious long before the pace car honor. (Having spent many years in New Jersey, my dibs on this opinion go way, way back.)
3. I would have made the same objection if Bill Maher had been asked four years ago. Inappropriate, divisive, and no real connection to the race.
4. To be honest, I wouldn't object if George W. Bush were the pace car driver this year.
Respectfully,
Lou