How the media is helping frame Donald Trump as a stone-cold survivor.
Back in 2020, while serving as President, Donald Trump contracted COVID-19. When he returned to the White House, the BBC reported on his recovery. This is the scenario: an elderly, affluent man contracts a virus that has been fatal for many yet recovers. He subsequently claims immunity while speaking to the American public:
'As your leader, I had to do that. I knew there’s a danger to it, but I had to do it. [...] Now I’m better, maybe I’m immune, I don’t know.'
So, even though the US was collapsing under the weight of their death toll, their ‘leader’ held himself up as a pariah of health; someone willing to risk his life for his country, but prevailing, nonetheless. Feel familiar?
In the past few weeks, American politics has dominated mainstream media as the presidential election takes flight. Recent headlines reflect Trump’s strength and survival following an assassination attempt at a Butler, Pennsylvania rally Saturday evening. Photographs of Trump, his fist raised triumphantly, are ubiquitous. The Financial Times, for instance, recently reported that the ex-President and freshly convicted felon now 'calls for unity', with NBC News quoting Biden for saying the same.
Theories suggest that this is a hoax; a campaign strategy designed to drive the media away from the guilty verdict narrative. But with the shooter dead, who can say? CNN Politics reports ongoing investigations into the motive behind the attempt on Trump's life, though many argue it is not a mystery. Regardless of intent, innocent lives were caught in the crossfire. Two other men were wounded, and former fire chief Corey Comperatore was killed whilst protecting his wife and daughter. David Dutch, 57, and James Copenhaver, 74 were both injured but survived. The image of Trump bloodied but defiant, against a backdrop of the American flag fuels scepticism, while theories about the shooting being staged are speculative yet not unfounded. And whether premeditated or opportunistic, Trump is capitalising on the incident.
Despite his felony conviction, Trump is running for the presidency again. This is absurd, given convicted felons in America typically lose their voting rights. Ironically, Donald Trump, a staunch supporter of the Second Amendment, now gains sympathy as a victim of gun violence, which not only bolsters his image but also deflects scrutiny from President Biden, who faces criticism for allegedly fostering a divisive political climate. Biden's earlier statement, “It’s time to put Trump in the bullseye,” is now scrutinised, though linking it to the attack seems far-fetched. Regardless of the attack's authenticity, the result benefits Trump. His survival ensures his presence at the centre of political discourse, shifting focus from other pressing issues such as the healthcare crisis following the overturn of Roe v Wade. Such critical issues, including the ongoing economic recovery, healthcare reforms, and foreign policy challenges are now being overshadowed by the assassination attempt.
And, as of last week, Trump will no longer be facing off against Biden, but his vice-president Kamala Harris, following Biden’s step down from office.
Did the plan work? If the intention was to portray Biden as weak, his decision to step down might have illustrated a clear cause-and-effect relationship. However, this interpretation hinges on whether stepping down is seen as a sign of weakness or strength. Recognising when one can no longer contribute effectively to the American people, and entrusting another to lead, could indeed be viewed as a sign of strength. It's a move that Trump would likely never consider.
People have lost faith in politics, and the modern age giving way to a widely broadcasted mockery of democracy and a shambles of human rights is at the root. Whether the assassination attempt was genuine or staged, it has undeniably bolstered Trump's campaign. Trump’s name dominates the news at a time when global supporters of Israel, including the US and UK governments, could benefit from switching the limelight onto something else. His survival and the ensuing media frenzy have undeniably benefited his political narrative: amid widespread disillusionment with politics and democracy, Trump emerges as a figure who has overcome both a virus and an assassination attempt. His supporters now argue that their candidate is unfairly victimised by the American political system, a sentiment that Trump adeptly leverages to galvanise his base and reclaim political relevance.
Now facing Kamala Harris, the outcome remains uncertain. Harris's campaign has skilfully aligned with the 'brat summer' trend sparked by Charli XCX's latest album release.
While no candidate is without flaws, Trump is widely seen as dangerous and destructive. In contrast, Harris is gaining endorsements from many prominent figures as the next Democratic presidential candidate.
Regardless of whether the next President of the United States will be a Black woman or a convicted felon, history will be made.