On-Line Bullying, Trump Style
By Megan Wallin
Melania Reflects On Her “Be Best” Campaign
Tom Llamas’ recent interview with Melania Trump revealed several important facts: (1) On-line bullying is a serious and growing problem (2) She believes herself to be “one of” the most bullied people in the world (3) She is willing to speak on camera about controversial topics, with no questions off-limits.
A Classic On-Line Bully
Melania seems to understand that her husband is a classic example of an on-line bully, but she claims that her stance on bullying is neither ironic, nor clandestine. She did not describe Donald as supportive of her “Be Best” campaign, but she claimed that, “He didn’t say not to do it”.
Buffering her earlier statement she explained “He understands that he is very tough on Twitter,” but likewise “he also understands that I want to help the next generation.”
She reiterated, multiple times, that she wants to do “the right thing” regardless of public perception.
Is She A Resource?
In the ABC interview FLOTUS claimed that she was influential in Donald’s reversal of his zero tolerance immigration policy. This cruel administration policy separated children from their parents at the Mexican border. If she actually effected the reversal of such cruel policy then surely we should start tapping into this neglected resource!
Redirect
On-line bullying, when confined to the comment section of YouTube, although inappropriate, does little damage. On the other hand when President of the United States attacks it can be cruel and damaging. Nearly all his tweets are attacks against political opponents, foreign leaders, and women. If the First Lady could influence her husband, perhaps she could start by directing her “Be Best” campaign at him.
The Worst Offense Is A Bad Defense
Donald Trump uses name-calling to shift the focus away from his responsibility, and place that responsibility squarely on someone else. When Trump isn’t bragging about his accomplishments to laughing UN leaders, he’s vigorously defending any perceived lack of competence by throwing insults and jabs at his detractors via Twitter. What’s strange is that it seems to work for him. His incessant mocking, degrading and name-calling does not offend his supporters.
Put Downs and Insults Ignite Supporters
If the media gives him a negative report, he cries “Fake News” or “enemy of the people.” There is no limit to his crass put-downs of his political rivals, or his demeaning nicknames. His endless repetition of phrases like “very sad” and “total loser” to describe those with whom he disagrees has no ill effect on his base support. The New York Times has a website devoted to documenting all of Trump’s Twitter insults. The Washington Post has a running total of Trump lies and misrepresentations, since taking office. The lie counter has surpassed 5,000 events. These main stream media sources are apparently not where the Trump boosters receive their information, otherwise the daily fact checking by credible news sources should have negatively affected his popularity long ago.
