The Danger of Trump: A Media Failure to Grasp the Threat to Democracy
Introduction:
Former President Donald Trump’s lust for dictatorial power poses an existential threat to democracy in the United States. Despite this, the American press fails to adequately cover the danger he represents. Instead, they focus on polls and trivial stories about his rallies, ignoring the five-alarm fire burning up the 2024 election. The mainstream political press is effectively sleepwalking through this national crisis.
Trump’s Autocratic Plans:
Trump openly admits his desire for dictatorial power, as seen in his response to Sean Hannity’s question about abusing power as retribution. Trump plans a second term that includes crushing dissent, imprisoning government officials, persecuting former aides, pardoning himself and his lieutenants, and using the government to enrich himself. His promotion of a video about “the creation of a unified Reich” further emphasizes his autocratic intentions.
The Failure of the Mainstream Political Press:
The mainstream political press refuses to acknowledge Trump’s fascist tendencies. They treat 2024 as just another election year, focusing on horse-race coverage and judging Trump’s actions based on their political impact. While major news organizations have done some important investigative stories about Trump’s dictatorial plans, they are overshadowed by the constant coverage of polls and trivial stories.
Learning from History: The American Press and Hitler:
The American press made a similar mistake in downplaying the threat Hitler posed before he gained power. Initially, they viewed him as a joke or a German version of Mussolini. Over time, their views shifted to show greater respect for Hitler’s skills as a demagogue. By the time of the crucial 1932 German elections, his antisemitism and lust for power were treated as old news. The American press is making the same mistake with Trump today.
Normalization of Trump:
Since Trump announced his candidacy, reporters have alternated between depicting him as a goof and showing respect for his demagogic skills. Despite two impeachments, four criminal indictments, and the January 6 insurrection, Trump is now seen as normal by the political press. They believe everything about his record has already been reported, leading to more coverage of his poll numbers than his criminality or the threat he poses.
The Press’s Defensive Crouch:
The press’s defensive stance is evident in New York Times executive editor Joe Kahn’s refusal to recognize the threat Trump poses. Major news organizations have become increasingly insular, losing advertising and attention to social media companies. The drive for diversity in newsrooms has left older white editors embittered and resistant to change.
Hypocrisy and Lack of Accountability:
News organizations claim to value transparency and openness but often fail to practice what they preach. The New York Times launched an ill-conceived leak investigation of its own staff, while the Washington Post downplayed evidence of its new publisher’s involvement in a phone hacking scheme. Both organizations lack accountability, having eliminated their ombudsman positions.
Protective Bubbles and Refusal to Take a Stand:
News organizations are building protective bubbles around themselves during a volatile time in the news business. Many in the industry secretly hope for Trump’s return to the White House, prioritizing revenues over the threat to democracy. The structure of journalism, with its focus on daily incremental news, also contributes to the failure to sound the alarm about Trump’s danger.
Conclusion:
The American press must recognize the danger that Trump poses to democracy and prioritize coverage of his autocratic plans over polls and trivial stories. Learning from history, they must not repeat the mistakes made with Hitler. By failing to grasp the threat Trump represents, the media is putting American democracy at risk.
