Calvin Trillin

Verse Columnist

Calvin Trillin is The Nation’s “deadline poet.”

One Christie Aide Pleads Guilty, Two Are Indicted in Bridgegate Case One Christie Aide Pleads Guilty, Two Are Indicted in Bridgegate Case

The Christie camp says that this isn’t a loss: With Chris in the dark, aides tried pleasing the boss. One reason that doubts about Chris haven’t eased: What was it that made them believe he’d be pleased?

May 5, 2015 / Column / Calvin Trillin

Bush as Bigfoot Bush as Bigfoot

“Bush’s considerable assets so far have done little to reshape the early polls or keep others out of the race. If anything, it’s the opposite.”            —The Washington Post When Jeb’s bid was starting to kindle, The field was predicted to dwindle. Now most pols agree: How tough can he be? He can’t even scare Bobby Jindal.

Apr 29, 2015 / Column / Calvin Trillin

Republican Contenders Stream into New Hampshire Republican Contenders Stream into New Hampshire

Obama they live to denounce. But Hillary’s who they must trounce. An awkward conundrum occurs: Is everything his fault or hers?

Apr 22, 2015 / Column / Calvin Trillin

Marco Rubio Declares Marco Rubio Declares

By coming in the race before Jeb Bush He shows he’s not in Bush’s hands just putty. And facing Paul and Cruz, his slogan’s clear: “Vote Marco Rubio— A Tad Less Nutty”

Apr 14, 2015 / Column / Calvin Trillin

How I Learned to Stop Worrying and Love ‘Nation’ Readers

How I Learned to Stop Worrying and Love ‘Nation’ Readers How I Learned to Stop Worrying and Love ‘Nation’ Readers

On a Nation cruise, the maritime adventure I usually refer to as “Lefties at Sea,” I used to take it for granted that some of the guests were troubled by my presence.

Mar 23, 2015 / Feature / Calvin Trillin

Early Returns Early Returns

Paul is first, Walker second in CPAC straw vote.                                      —News reports Oh, mirror, mirror on the wall, Just who’s the rightmost of them all? Yes, CPAC’s survey picked Rand Paul, But Walker managed to enthrall A host of cuckoos in that hall. Can either of them, come next fall, Retain Big Mo and thus forestall The latest Bush to be on call? For he brings with him to this brawl A signed-up big-bucks cash cabal.

Mar 4, 2015 / Column / Calvin Trillin

Scott Walker, Science and Iowa Scott Walker, Science and Iowa

“When he was asked about his belief in evolution, Mr. Walker said, ‘I’m going to punt on that one.’”                                                                                         — The New York Times In Iowa, the GOP contains A bloc of folks convinced that Darwin’s wrong. So when the subject’s raised, it’s no surprise If every candidate is fourth and long.

Feb 25, 2015 / Column / Calvin Trillin

Libertarian Medicine From Rand Paul, MD Libertarian Medicine From Rand Paul, MD

Senator Rand Paul, a doctor, says the measles vaccine can cause “profound mental disorders.” —News reports On vaccines, Paul says that what should be conceded Is state-imposed treatment leaves freedom impeded. One hopes parents know, lest this doofus be heeded, A second opinion in this case is needed.

Feb 11, 2015 / Column / Calvin Trillin

Romney, Not Finding Donor Support, Decides Not to Run Romney, Not Finding Donor Support, Decides Not to Run

Unlimited donations make The role of fat cats truly stunning. They don’t just sway who’ll win the race. It’s up to them to pick who’s running.

Feb 4, 2015 / Column / Calvin Trillin

King Abdullah of Saudi Arabia King Abdullah of Saudi Arabia

So why did we remain steadfastly loyal To this repressive, autocratic royal Whose nation’s where jihadist teachers thrive? Two hints: it’s black. Without it, cars can’t drive.

Jan 28, 2015 / Column / Calvin Trillin

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