Deflector-in-Chief
During Donald Trump’s first term in office, he quickly fired any of his cabinet or department officials, without hesitation, when their actions or statements brought negative attention to his administration.
These firings served several purposes but primarily gave the appearance of a president who wouldn’t tolerate corruption. During his present administration, proof of corruption or incompetence, of the highest order, is not only ignored but glorified with compliments from Trump about what a fine job they are doing.
The reality is that Trump knows about their failings, and possibly illegal behavior, but chooses to give them an almost unfettered ability to act without consequence. With each emerging scandal, military misadventure, or misuse of department resources, Trump is rarely condemned for their behavior. The news media concentrates its coverage on the official and much less so on Trump. This deflection of responsibility allows the media to avoid retribution from Trump and provides him with the excuse that he is unaware of what is transpiring or proposed in his name.
The refusal by Trump to constrain or fire Pete Hegseth, Kash Patel , Todd Blanche, or any department or cabinet officials is enabling their continuing horrendous behavior and deflecting blame from him, while simultaneously fulfilling his revenge and glorification obsessions. Ultimately, this sham loyalty from Trump will dissolve, and true to form, Trump will cast blame on these officials and concoct another conspiracy theory for the MAGA base.
Betty Ussach-Schwartz
Southampton