supporters

Saturday December 9, 2023

The escalating coarseness in Donald Trump's rhetoric, characterized by insulting nicknames and baseless claims, raises concerns about declining civility among his supporters and the potential for authoritarianism, as prominent figures, including Liz Cheney and Joe Biden, warn of the dangers associated with Trump's behavior.

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Saturday December 9, 2023

Trump’s Rhetoric and the Rising Fear of Authoritarianism

October 3, 2023

In recent weeks, Donald Trump’s behaviour and rhetoric have taken a darker turn, marked by insulting nicknames, crude references, and baseless claims to disparage opponents and critics. This shift was prominently on display during a recent event in Iowa, where Trump’s coarseness and cruelty were vividly showcased.

This escalation in Trump’s rhetoric is not just a matter of personal style; it has become a defining characteristic of the Republican Party since his presidency. Many GOP voters not only tolerate but also relish this approach, while others express concerns about the declining civility within the party.

Opinion: Donald Trump 2.0 — darker and more dangerous

July 23, 2022

The alarming trend has permeated within the GOP. Down-ballot candidates and even Trump’s rivals are adopting similar tactics, reflecting a split within the party. Despite the availability of candidates championing similar agendas with a less abrasive demeanour, many Republicans continue to support Trump, emphasizing how his behaviour has become a central part of his appeal.

Looking ahead to the Republican presidential primary, concerns about Trump’s rhetoric are escalating. Figures such as Liz Cheney, Joe Biden, and even Trump himself are warning of the potential for an authoritarian takeover if Trump returns to power. Cheney, an anti-Trump Republican, emphasizes the ease with which Trump’s steps toward dictatorship can be discerned based on his statements.

Trump’s dominance in Republican primary polling, despite facing legal challenges, is noted. Polls indicating Trump’s lead over Biden in key states are causing anxiety among Democrats. Biden, in response, consistently highlights the threat to democracy that Trump poses, a threat Trump himself seems to acknowledge, albeit in a seemingly casual manner.

The Atlantic: Trump Says He’ll Be a Dictator on ‘Day One’  

May 3, 2017

Recent interviews and statements by Trump and his allies reveal a willingness to use state power for retribution and to safeguard Trump’s grip on power. Plans like Project 2025, coordinated by the conservative Heritage Foundation, underscore a systematic preparation for a potential return to office, with a focus on targeting perceived enemies across media and bureaucracy.

The situation is dire, emphasizing the centrality of Trump’s behaviour in the political landscape. Despite growing concerns about declining civility and the rising fear of authoritarianism, Trump’s influence persists, making him a dominant force in the upcoming Republican primary. (AI)  

Tuesday January 22, 2019

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Tuesday January 22, 2019

Indigenous veteran mocked by students in video says he tried to ease tensions at National Mall

Students at a Kentucky Catholic school who were involved in a video showing them mocking Indigenous people outside the Lincoln Memorial after a Washington rally could potentially face expulsion, according to the diocese.

June 6, 2018

In a joint statement, the Roman Catholic Diocese of Covington and Covington Catholic High School apologized and said they are investigating and will take “appropriate action, up to and including expulsion.”

The Indigenous Peoples March in Washington on Friday coincided with the March for Life, which drew thousands of anti-abortion protesters, including a group from Covington Catholic High School in Park Hills, Kentucky.

Videos circulating online show a youth staring at and standing extremely close to Nathan Phillips, a 64-year-old Indigenous veteran singing and playing a drum. Other students, some wearing Covington clothing and many wearing “Make America Great Again” hats and sweat shirts, surrounded them, chanting, laughing and jeering.

November 3, 2017

“We extend our deepest apologies to Mr. Phillips,” the diocese statement read. “This behaviour is opposed to the Church’s teachings on the dignity and respect of the human person.”

According to the “Indian Country Today” website, Phillips is an Omaha elder and Vietnam veteran who holds an annual ceremony honouring Indigenous veterans at Arlington National Cemetery.

Marcus Frejo, a member of the Pawnee and Seminole tribes who is also known as Chief Quese Imc, said he had been a part of the march and was among a small group of people remaining after the rally when the boisterous students began chanting slogans such as “make America great” and then began doing the haka, a traditional Maori dance. In a phone interview, Frejo told The Associated Press he felt they were mocking the dance.

April 20, 2018

One 11-minute video of the confrontation shows the Haka dance and students loudly chanting before Phillips and Frejo approached them.

Frejo said he joined Phillips to defuse the situation, singing the anthem from the American Indian Movement with both men beating out the tempo on hand drums.

Although he feared a mob mentality that could turn ugly, Frejo said he was at peace singing despite the scorn. He briefly felt something special happen as they repeatedly sang the tune.

“They went from mocking us and laughing at us to singing with us. I heard it three times,” Frejo said. “That spirit moved through us, that drum, and it slowly started to move through some of those youths.” (Source: Hamilton Spectator)