The coronavirus pandemic has brought out the true nature of everybody, especially those in power. Worldwide, most leaders have tried to show sincerity in dealing with this pandemic except for the President of the world’s superpower, Mr Donald Trump. His behaviour during this pandemic has brought a flurry of ridicule, criticism, as well as blind faith from his group of supporters. This behaviour Trump has been displaying is not something new and has reared often during the Presidency. His behaviour is a manifestation of his personality traits—I call it the “Trump Ego”.
So What Is The Trump Ego?
Trump has exhibited consistent behaviour throughout his tenure:
- He harps on the “first me” emotion, manifested in the form of “America First”. During this pandemic, as the focus shifted on his performance, he has consistently demanded: “first me and my emotions”.
- Volatile reaction to criticism either from the media (which he calls ‘lamestream’ media) or individuals. He starts character assassinations of his critics without any proof.
- His undue focus on women even though he has things that most can only dream of. He has continuously criticised women for not being soft or good to him. He has become an icon for men’s rights and disregards women’s rights (anti-abortion). He did not even spare a 17-year-old girl (Greta Thunberg) for her thoughts.
- He refuses to take responsibility for his words and actions.
- He easily apportions blame for his failures on others.
- He has been consistent in spreading lies.
- He values money over human values. He has not shown remorse for the lives lost during this pandemic. Rather he justifies his decisions by claiming to protect jobs.
- He wants to be appreciated for doing the basics of his job. He has declared himself the most hard-working President in the history of America.
The Trump Age Is Not New
The world has seen its fair share of narcissistic leaders. Dictators like Benito Mussolini in Italy, Hitler in Germany and other similar personalities are quick to put the identities of their countries first, always censor women’s roles and are quick to sacrifice human lives for their ambitions. They feel that they can do anything they desire, being in their positions. Moreover, they easily justify their behaviour without a hint of remorse.
The Trump Age Is Becoming More Pervasive
With the widespread use of social media, people are resorting to emotional outbursts and exaggerations online. This has led to the evolution of Trump syndrome. It is more rampant amongst anti-feminists, people with influence and power and often seen amongst adamant followers of a certain philosophy or person. Their emotional range fluctuates based on the treatment received by different people. They refuse to forget people who criticize or oppose their ideas, and it’s worse if you’re a woman.
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If a woman shares her ideas (right or wrong), it somehow becomes relevant to “let them know their place”. It is done by targeting their sexuality and abusing them online. Their narcissism will make them remind you of the one good thing they’ve done, and they’ll never hesitate to call you ungrateful. They pretend to work for a larger cause but do not hesitate to sacrifice people for their “humanitarian” agenda. They do not hesitate to lie and twist the truth to suit their purposes. Clearly, these people are misguided and have no clear objectives. The “first us” policy makes them hopeful for a better future. Identity politics make them believe that their leaders are working for their prosperity until they see the destruction and loss of life.
Beware Of The Trump Age:
At times, this may seem funny, but this is dangerous because it always puts their self-interests and ambitions below people’s lives. They can fool everyone by their speeches or by portraying themselves as victims of certain circumstances. History likes to repeat itself. People like Trump have always been present. The real question is: when will people learn not to trust or support such people?