By Daniel (((((HALPER))))
The Clinton campaign discussed assembling a “swift boat project” earlier this year to undermine Donald Trump’s presidential campaign, according to newly released emails from WikiLeaks.
In a Feb. 26, 2016, exchange involving Democratic strategist Joel Johnson, as well as Clinton communications director Jennifer Palmieri and chairman John Podesta, assembling a group to destroy Trump was discussed.
“I know you can’t look past Bernie and March primaries — but who is in charge of the Trump swift boat project?” Johnson asked in an email to Palmieri, according to the hacked emails.
“Needs to be ready, funded and unleashed when we decide — but not a half assed scramble,” Johnson added.
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“Gee. Thanks, Joel,” Palmieri responded a minute later.
“We thought we could half-ass it. Let’s discuss,” she added.
Johnson responded, “Sorry. I’ve been behind too many curtains in my day…”
It’s unclear precisely what measures may have been taken as a result of the conversation — or what was under way prior to the email exchange.
Swift-boating refers to the group Swift Boat Veterans for Truth that accused John Kerry of fabricating his exploits to win decorations during his military service in Vietnam when he ran for president in 2004.
The term “swift-boating” has since become synonymous with nasty campaign tactics.
The emails belonging to Podesta were released by WikiLeaks on Monday.