Glenn Beck's Shift from Trump Critic to Leading Anti-Trump Champion
Glenn Beck, known for his bold and often polarizing stance on various issues, has long been a consistent voice against those he deems wrong. This includes figures within the right-wing spectrum, such as Donald Trump. The question arises: why has Beck, who has been a vocal critic of Trump, seemingly aligned himself with opposing the former president's policies and actions?
Why Glenn Beck Hates Trump
Glenn Beck's criticism of Trump has often centered around issues of morality and truthfulness. One significant factor in this shift is the perception of repeated lies. Beck has accused Trump of dishonesty, citing instances where the former president has been caught in falsehoods or made misleading statements. For example, calling Ted Cruz 'Lying Ted' has been a point of contention, with Beck failing to provide any factual basis for such an accusation.
Another critical point of contention is the notion that Trump has influenced the public's perception of historical events, such as the assassination of JFK. This label of 'lying Ted' highlights the growing divide between Beck and Trump over factual representation.
Understanding Glenn Beck's Position
Beyond the specific issues, Beck's transition from a Trump critic to an anti-Trump advocate can be attributed to broader political and business interests. It’s observed that Beck's aim is not purely ideological, but rather strategic. His model thrives by positioning himself as a moral authority, a self-styled guardian of right and wrong.
A Morally Superior Persona
Beck often attempts to portray himself as morally superior, much like the individual who cheats every day but becomes a 'saint' on Sunday. This persona allows him to selectively support causes and political figures that align with his particular brand of conservatism, while disapproving of others. His inability to support anything that doesn't fit his stringent moral standards further underscores this divide.
Business Motivations and Political Realities
Beck has always been adept at positioning himself to capture a niche audience that aligns with his critique of mainstream politics. The overwhelming support for Trump brought a new wave of right-wing ideologues into the fray, forcing Beck to reevaluate his strategic direction.
Initially, Beck positioned Trump as a controversial figure to appeal to his existing viewership. However, with the rising popularity of Trump and his followers, Beck has faced the challenge of maintaining his relevance. Beck’s model now includes creating an antagonistic ‘boogeyman’ figure to continue his influence. Initially, this figure was President Obama, but post-election, it has shifted to Donald Trump.
The Strategic Relevance of Trump as the ‘Boogeyman’
With Trump’s emergence, Beck’s business strategy shifts dramatically. By labeling Trump as the primary threat, Beck can simultaneously appeal to those who were supportive of Trump and those who were opposed. This approach provides a semblance of unity in his commentary, allowing him to continue as a voice of reason and morality.
However, the strategy also highlights the superficiality of Beck’s character. It’s clear that his actions are primarily geared towards maintaining his influence rather than genuine concern for the political landscape. If Hillary Clinton had won, Beck would have immediately shifted his stance to align with her, further exemplifying his opportunistic nature.
Conclusion
In essence, Glenn Beck’s shift from being a critic of Trump to a leader in opposition can be seen as a calculated business move rather than an ideological conversion. His ability to adapt to changing political landscapes while maintaining his public persona as a moral authority remains a key aspect of his enduring presence in right-wing media.