The Future of the National Enquirer: Trump's Stake and the Impact of Potential Buyers
As discussions about the pending sale of the National Enquirer continue, one prominent question is whether this sale would be beneficial for Donald Trump. The answer, as it often does in such matters, hinges largely on who ends up owning the publications.
The Current State of the National Enquirer and Trump's Relationship
Richard Greco makes an illuminating point that it all depends on who buys the National Enquirer. Considering the current owner, Jeffrey "Pecker" Pecker has been a staunch ally to Trump, with a long-standing history of maintaining a friendly relationship. In fact, Pecker has been in the business of protecting and possibly even enhancing Trump's public image by acquiring and keeping under wraps numerous scandalous stories. These stories, if released, could have significantly affected Trump's public perception and political standing.
The Role of Financial Transactions in Media Ownership
The relationship between Pecker and Trump is more than just a friendly one. Pecker has received payment for the stories he acquires, ensuring that he doesn't get stiffed, as Trump is known to do with other partners. This financial stability has been crucial for Pecker, as he's had to handle scandalous material that could have damaged Trump's political career if it had come to light too early or in the wrong context.
Potential New Owners and Their Impact
Indeed, the ownership of the National Enquirer could drastically change the publication's role and direction. One of the most intriguing scenarios is that Jeff Bezos, owner of Amazon and The Washington Post, could take over the Enquirer. Bezos, known for his transparency and often pushing the envelope, might be inclined to release the archives and let the public scrutinize past events. This would provide a fascinating look into how the media has shaped political narratives, especially regarding Trump and other public figures.
Other potential buyers, such as Sheldon Adelson or Robert Mercer and his daughter Rebekah, could have very different implications. Adelson, a prominent donor to the Republican Party, and Mercer, one of the funders of the alt-right, would likely result in a conservative-leaning media outlet. This could amplify existing political narratives and potentially exacerbate divisions within the public.
The Uncertainty and Trump's Response
The uncertainty surrounding the sale of the National Enquirer is palpable, and it's quite fitting that Trump has chosen to use one of his favorite phrases to explain his stance: "We'll see what happens.” This response encapsulates his often unpredictable and malleable approach to business and political strategies. Trump's oft-repeated line reflects not just a statement of observation but also a reflection of his current indecision about the situation.
For Trump, the mere thought of a new owner might rattle his political machine. A conservative-leaning media outlet could create opposition, while a more liberal-leaning one might present an opportunity for counter-propaganda. Trump’s ambiguity on the matter could be his strategic approach to navigate the uncertain waters of media ownership and its impact on his public image and political standing.
Conclusion
The sale of the National Enquirer is an important moment not only for the media landscape but also for Donald Trump's political legacy. The next owner could either protect Trump's legacy or expose it to new scrutiny. The outcome will likely depend on the individual or group behind the purchase and their intended role for the publication.
If the National Enquirer is up for sale, it's crucial to pay attention to the details of the buyer and the future of the publication. The impact on Trump and his political career, as well as the broader media and journalism ecosystems, could be significant. As the story unfolds, it will be intriguing to see how the National Enquirer's future aligns with its historical role and its relationship with Donald Trump.