After his latest debate with Vice President Kamala Harris, former President Donald Trump reacted strongly. On “Fox and Friends,” he not only declared that he won the debate but also demanded that ABC News lose its broadcasting license. Here’s a simplified look at the conversation that unfolded:
Host (Ainsley): “What’s your reaction? Why didn’t the moderators correct her?”
Trump: “Because they are dishonest. I think ABC took a big hit last night. To be honest, they are a news organization. They have to be licensed to do it. They ought to take away their license for the way they did that. That bloodbath was referring to the economy. Everyone loved the term as soon as they heard the word, sort of a vicious word.”
Trump’s comments reflect a familiar pattern of behavior. When he perceives unfavorable coverage, he tends to attack the media rather than address the criticism. This response was no exception. Trump’s call for ABC News to lose its license is a clear attempt to undermine the credibility of a news organization that he believes did not cover him fairly.
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Throughout his career, Trump has often criticized media outlets for bias. This strategy of deflecting criticism by attacking the media is something he has employed before. For example, during his presidency, Trump frequently labeled mainstream media as “fake news” and claimed they were out to get him. This tactic serves to shift the focus from any personal shortcomings to alleged media unfairness.
On “Fox and Friends,” Trump’s reaction was centered around his belief that the debate was unfairly handled. He argued that ABC News failed to correct misinformation during the debate, a claim that reflects his broader criticism of how the media covers him. By calling for the network to lose its license, Trump is leveraging his usual strategy of discrediting the sources that challenge him.
Social media responses to Trump’s remarks highlight the divisive nature of his approach. Brian Krassenstein tweeted, “Trump, on Fox and Friends, calls for ABC News to lose their license after he was destroyed in the debate.” This tweet captures the essence of Trump’s response: when faced with criticism, he blames the media rather than addressing the content of the debate itself.
BREAKING: Trump , on Fox and Friends, calls for ABC News to lose their license after he was destroyed in the debate:
Last Night I told you all, you will know that Trump got destroyed in the Presidential debate if they start blaming the moderators and ABC News.
Well, here you… pic.twitter.com/I0272SJaxH
— Brian Krassenstein (@krassenstein) September 11, 2024
Jacob in Cambodia added, “Of course. If Trump doesn’t win at something or get recognition enough to feed his narcissistic personality, we see this type of behavior.” This reflects a view that Trump’s reaction is driven by his need for validation rather than genuine concern over media bias.
Of course. If Trump doesn’t win at something or get recognition enough to feed his narcissistic personality, we see this type of behavior. Bottom line, is that he’s trying to make ok for his poor performance at the debate.
— Jacob in Cambodia 🇺🇸 🇰🇭 (@jacobincambodia) September 11, 2024
Mike Harvey commented, “Has Trump ever owned any failure he has been apart of, ever? Classic narcissist. I don’t want a narcissist in the Oval Office, I want a president.” This highlights a concern that Trump’s behavior reveals a lack of accountability, which many find troubling.
Has Trump ever owned any failure he has been apart of, ever? Classic narcissist.
I don’t want a narcissist in the Oval Office, I want a president.
— Mike Harvey (@electMikeHarvey) September 11, 2024
Trump’s call for ABC News to lose its license is a striking example of how he deals with criticism. Instead of focusing on the substance of the debate or acknowledging any areas for improvement, he attacks the media and questions their legitimacy. This approach not only diverts attention from his performance but also reinforces a pattern of blaming others for his perceived failures.
Featured image via Screengrab