Article snippet: The TAKE with MaryAlice Parks The Trump administration started the week attempting to bolster its authority on the world stage - only to have allegations of adultery continue to erode its credibility at home. The White House’s retaliatory steps against the Kremlin Monday were sweeping and noteworthy. The president’s spokesperson said plainly that the Russian government’s behavior would not be tolerated, and lawmakers from both sides and international partners around the world applauded. But this West Wing seems to be standing in quicksand. The same day the White House tried to meet Russian aggression with decisive steps and bold rhetoric, it struggled under the weight of the salacious accusations regarding the president’s personal life and the actions of his lawyer in the final days before the election. On questions of infidelity, the White House managed only some vague denials. The fact is, an adult film star and a former Playboy Playmate, telling their stories of hush money and accusing the president of affairs, are making it hard for the White House to move ahead or even stand straight. The mounting legal and ethical questions about campaign finance rules and “who knew what, when,” are taking the footing out from under the place. Noticeably, except for yet another generic tweet about “fake news,” the president stayed silent on both fronts Monday, sending staff and a Cabinet member to condemn Russia on behalf of the United States and not responding ... Link to the full article to read more