Remember the last time we had an incurious president who allowed others to run the presidency? We ended up in a war. This little incident as Trump answered a reporter’s question might be probative.
Donald Trump, the clueless president
Watching our next President respond to the reporter’s question seemed inauspicious, but it does not portend a responsible administration based on his ‘cabinet.’
After the Berlin Massacre, the Trump campaign sent out the following press release. Here is a link to a screenshot as well in case it miraculously changes. With a lying administration, one must keep backups.
Statement from President-Elect Donald J. Trump on the Attack in Berlin
(New York, NY) — “Our hearts and prayers are with the loved ones of the victims of today’s horrifying terror attack in Berlin. Innocent civilians were murdered in the streets as they prepared to celebrate the Christmas holiday. ISIS and other Islamist terrorists continually slaughter Christians in their communities and places of worship as part of their global jihad. These terrorists and their regional and worldwide networks must be eradicated from the face of the earth, a mission we will carry out with all freedom-loving partners.”
A reporter attempted to question Trump on his religiously incendiary press release.
“Your comments about the truck attack in Berlin being against Christians,” a reporter asked. “do think that this might….”
“Say it again?” a confused Trump asked.
“The attack in Berlin being an attack on Christians….,” she clarified.
“Who said that?” a clueless Trump asked. “When was that said?”
“I believe you said it in a press release….,” the reporter responded.
“Go ahead,” Trump replied.
“So I am wondering how this might affect relations with Muslims?” the reporter asked.
“This is an attack on humanity,” Trump hastily interrupted. That’s what it is. It is an attack on humanity. And it’s gotta be stopped. Thank you.”
Trump then walked off.
It is clear the Alt-Right faction of his administration put out the release and he was clueless about it. It is a dangerous precedent because the reporter is absolutely right. The ad-hoc religious commentary in these responses can have national and international effects that could outlast any press releases. We are in for a long four years from a team not ready for prime time but ready for promoting hate and division.