Introduction

The concept of a leader being a victim is not a new one. However, under the administration of Donald Trump, it has been elevated to a central element of the political discourse. This article explores how Trump's repeated resort to a narrative of victimhood has intertwined with historical references and the portrayal by the media.

Trump's Repeated Posing of Victim

Since his presidency began, Donald Trump has repeatedly claimed to be a victim of various circumstances and entities, extending his role from the Victim-Billionaire to the Victim-President. This ongoing portrayal of himself as a victim provides a framework for his defense against criticisms and setbacks, while also reaffirming his self-proclaimed status as a victim of media bias and political persecution.

The Media as Delaying Opponent

Trump's portrayal of the media as his main adversary is a key part of his victimhood narrative. His criticism of 'fake news' and relentless attacks on journalists create a narrative that frames him as the one being mistreated. This is akin to historical accounts where assassins and their accomplices viewed their targets as the abusers. The media, in his view, has become an extension of the 'deep state' or other shadowy entities that seek to undermine his presidency.

Comparisons to Historical Victims

Trump's latest claim that he is the victim compares him to Abraham Lincoln, another historical figure known for his treatment by the press and public. Lincoln, while criticized and maligned, ultimately faced an assassination attempt that was far more violent than any treatment Trump faced from the media. Trump's comparison to Lincoln, however, serves not to highlight their similarities but to draw attention to his perceived victimhood. Just as Lincoln was treated unfairly, Trump sees himself as an unfairly treated victim.

The Historical Misunderstanding

Trump's analogy is flawed and misunderstood. The treatment Lincoln faced was different in nature from what Trump perceives to be his own mistreatment. Trump's calls for a theater performance or his desire for a simple internet search to understand Lincoln's true legacy indicates a significant gap in his grasp of historical facts. This misunderstanding reflects a broader issue of historical illiteracy among some segments of the American public, not just among Trump supporters, but also among those who propagate his narratives.

The Impact of Victimhood on Presidency

The use of a victimhood narrative has significant implications for the handling of emergencies and public service. For instance, Trump's citation of historical treatment as an excuse for neglecting the FEMA emergency stockpile highlights the danger of diverting attention from pressing issues. Instead of taking responsibility for neglect, Trump's rhetoric allows him to place blame elsewhere, thus deferring accountability and action.

Conclusion

The use of the victimhood narrative by Trump not only undermines transparency and accountability but also hinders the effective governance of the country. By continually framing himself as a victim of circumstances beyond his control, Trump avoids addressing the real challenges and issues facing the nation. Understanding and debunking these historical misrepresentations can help in promoting a more informed and engaged populace, less susceptible to such manipulative narratives.

Keywords: Donald Trump, victimhood narrative, media portrayal