Trump’s Unyielding Stance: A Political Analysis Amidst COVID-19
There was a fleeting notion that Donald Trump might undergo a transformation upon contracting the coronavirus—perhaps gaining insight and advocating for safety measures. However, this hope dissipated as quickly as the anticipation for a presidential pivot post-inauguration.
Instead, Trump opted to reinforce his image as a strong leader. He dramatically returned to the White House via helicopter at dusk, defiantly removing his face mask while still contagious. Boasting of feeling better than he had in two decades, he urged the public not to succumb to fear or let the virus dictate their lives.
His campaign seized the opportunity to capitalize on his personal ordeal, sending out fundraising emails echoing his triumphant narrative: “If I can beat it, so can you.” This approach aligns seamlessly with his persona—a president who perceives illness as a sign of weakness, continually striving to portray himself as the protagonist of his own reality show.
Gwenda Blair, a Trump biographer, commented on his affinity for projecting iconic images of strength and wealth throughout his career, suggesting that such theatrics, however absurd and hazardous, resonate with his base. She remarked, “Now he is positioning himself as an ‘expert,’ having experienced the virus firsthand. Any inclination to heed medical advice has likely vanished.”
Trump, influenced by Norman Vincent Peale’s The Power of Positive Thinking, appears determined to will away his illness, even at the expense of endangering those around him. This reckless behavior extends to his staff, the Secret Service, medical personnel, and White House employees.
Following his discharge from Walter Reed military hospital, Trump’s campaign wasted no time in spinning his return into a narrative of triumph. The messaging, echoed by Republican allies and conservative media, downplays the severity of the virus and glorifies Trump’s resilience.
Despite ongoing treatment and the potential for a relapse, Trump resumed his usual rhetoric on social media, from boasting about his health to abruptly halting negotiations on Covid economic relief funding. The repercussions were immediate, with stock markets plummeting in response.
His actions have been criticized as not only irresponsible but potentially criminal from a public health standpoint, directly contradicting medical advice and setting a dangerous precedent.
Zac Petkanas, director of the coronavirus war room at Protect Our Care, expressed astonishment at Trump’s disregard for public health and the political consequences of his actions. He emphasized that Trump’s behavior not only prolongs the pandemic but also alienates voters who prioritize science and expertise.
Trump’s consistent downplaying of the virus and disregard for safety measures has not gone unnoticed. Despite his efforts to rally his base, polls indicate a significant lead for Joe Biden among likely voters.
Larry Sabato, director of the Center for Politics at the University of Virginia, observed that while Trump’s actions may energize his supporters, they are unlikely to sway undecided voters. He attributed Trump’s behavior to frustration over the impact of the pandemic on his re-election prospects.
Moe Vela, a former senior adviser to Biden, characterized Trump’s approach as divisive and alienating to a larger portion of the electorate beyond his base. He emphasized that the majority does not align with Trump’s divisive tactics, spelling trouble for his re-election bid.