The Evolution of Donald Trump's Racism: From Television Success to Presidential Candidate
Does the television show The Apprentice effectively mask Donald Trump's racism? This question highlights the complex nature of public perception and the influence of media representation. We will explore how Trump's past racist actions were overlooked during his successful television career and explain why his presidency intensified these concerns.
Position and Positive Reinforcement: Why Racism Was Overlooked in Television
Is it TV? The premise often holds that in television, everything is not real. Anything "unwelcome" usually dies on the editing desk, and especially on The Apprentice, Trump's erratic decisions required significant editing to make the program flow logically for the audience.
Given this context, it's understandable why his television series did not reveal his racist tendencies. Criticism was often applied to his persona rather than the content, and viewers may have overlooked his actions due to the highly publicized nature of the show.
Moreover, Trump's alleged racism in The Apprentice was viewed as a distant event, not a recurring issue. This lack of continuity made it easier for viewers to overlook past incidents and focus on his on-screen success.
For instance, before The Apprentice, Trump repeatedly engaged in racial discrimination as a real estate developer. In 1989, he ran full-page ads advocating for the death penalty, further showcasing his controversial views. But, these actions were often framed as misguided beliefs rather than egregious racism, especially when considered in the context of the time. However, during his presidency, these actions came to light more prominently, revealing a much darker side.
Rising to the White House: Choosing the Right Language and Leaders
The Position: When Donald Trump decided to run for President, he took on a new role where careful language and a fair-minded approach were essential. Running for the highest office in the nation meant that past actions and rhetoric would be re-evaluated in a more critical light.
Trump's past racist behaviors, which were previously viewed with leniency, now became a central issue. His role in the Birtherism movement and his inflammatory rhetoric alienated many. Being president means maintaining the appearance of impartiality and ethical conduct, a stark contrast to his campaign and post-election actions.
The Power of Positive Reinforcement: Manipulative Rhetoric
Positive Reinforcement: Trump's rise to power was not just about appearing racist; it was about masterfully using racial rhetoric to maintain his support and amplify his message. His campaign speeches and actions, such as blaming immigrants, inviting only white athletes to the White House, and criticizing Colin Kaepernick, all served a specific purpose—stoking fear and division to increase his base's loyalty.
By aligning with and amplifying the racist rhetoric of his base, Trump created a feedback loop where supportive cheers for his controversial comments grew louder and more frequent. He often turned to his supporters and the media to validate his statements, exemplifying a leadership style that prioritized coarse rhetoric over ethical considerations.
The Consequences of Ignoring Past Misconduct
If Trump had been consistent in his racist behavior, some might argue that it would have been obvious long before his presidency. However, the intensity and universality of his racist rhetoric after becoming president reveal a tactic of manipulation rather than a core belief. By fostering an environment where his base's racist views were amplified, Trump created a dangerous precedent for leadership in the United States.
It is incumbent upon all citizens to challenge these actions, not just those who oppose Trump. Recognizing the manipulative nature of his rhetoric underscores the importance of ethical leadership and the need for leaders to prioritize the common good over personal gain.
Conclusion: As Trump's presidency demonstrated, the effects of his past and current stated views on race cannot be ignored. His ability to leverage and amplify racist rhetoric for personal gain reveals a concerning trend in American politics. It is crucial that we remain vigilant and hold leaders accountable for their words and actions, especially when they perpetuate division and exclusion.