In fact over the past several weeks Donald Trump has cranked up his attacks on the so-called mainstream media, using more incendiary language than ever. The former president’s disdain for the press has long been a hallmark of his public persona, but recent comments and actions suggest a deepening animosity, particularly as he faces declining approval ratings and an approaching midterm election.
Trump also made headlines when he referred to a White House reporter as “piggy.” This comment was immediately met with widespread outrage from press organizations and journalist commentators. He labeled Mary Bruce of ABC News a “terrible person and a terrible reporter,” further highlighting his contentious relationship with the press.
Trump’s most recent outburst is perfectly timed with the White House team’s rollout of a new website. This website is ostensibly meant to track media bias. This initiative definitely looks like an effort to make up for his radical, hyperpartisan calls to have six Democratic members of Congress arrested. It’s no wonder that these calls have drawn extensive media attention. The website features a “Hall of Shame” section and lists “media offenders of the week,” showcasing Trump’s ongoing grievances against journalists who report unfavorably on him.
Perhaps no one has the former president as angry as Senator Mark Kelly from Arizona. This highlights his personal vendetta as he gears up for the midterm elections. His approval rating is now at 38%, the lowest point since his comeback to the presidency. His approval ratings have tanked since the beginning of his second term. This drop is indicative of a larger trend, with a two-point drop recorded even since the start of polling in early November.
Yet Trump’s growing distance from the center of gravity of American political discourse is most clearly reflected in his rhetoric. He has made statements that suggest a willingness to resort to extreme measures, once suggesting that those he deems unworthy should face dire consequences: “threatening death, but I think they’re in serious trouble.” Such comments signal a shift towards a more combative and confrontational approach, particularly as he grapples with waning support from both constituents and party members.
In the process, Trump is further isolating himself from long-standing political allies. While he changes this strategy, worry continues to increase about how his plan will affect the 2024 elections. His strategy of vilifying journalists has become central to his identity, but it raises questions about its efficacy in rallying voter support at a time when he is perceived as increasingly out of touch with mainstream sentiments.
The Factba.se media bias tracking website only serves to prove the former president’s long-standing assertion. He is convinced that he is being tanked by a disloyal media. Economists and critics believe that this new flailing tactic is just a last ditch trick to deviate attention from his revealed political Achilles heel. By casting the media as enemies, Trump finds a way to energize his base and, at the same time, cast doubt on unflattering coverage.
This strategy could very well backfire as voters consider their choices in the November general elections. Many are watching closely to see how Trump’s contentious relationship with the media and his fluctuating approval ratings will influence voter sentiment.