It’s been quite clear that Donald Trump’s calls for “unity” and “compassion” are as hollow as his claim of being a “self-made” zillionaire.
The president recited the correct words as federal, state and law enforcement officials apprehended a suspect believed to be responsible for sending pipe bombs to the president’s political foes and a major media organization.
Then he returned almost immediately to form.
He blasted Democrats as wanting to take the nation on a track to “socialism.” Moreover, he blamed the media for fomenting the anger that has infected the nation’s political debate.
No mention, of course, of his own role in the anger that allegedly prompted Cesar Sayoc to send out the bombs.
In a more perfect political world, the president of the United States would talk at his campaign rallies about the specifics of his policy proposals, rather than merely attacking those on the other side.
He would, for instance:
- Articulate why his tax policies would help individuals and families.
- Explain in detail why the nation wants to declare trade wars with its trading partners worldwide.
- Line out — with specifics — his view that the nation’s environmental policies haven’t improved the environment and why they’re harmful to job growth.
- Explain, again with detail and context, why the government is considering an elimination of the term “transgender.”
He won’t do any of that. He will rely on applause lines spoken to fervent crowds of supporters. He will continue to applaud chants of “Lock her up!” when the crowd erupts in anger at Hillary Rodham Clinton.
He’ll continue to applaud a politician who assaults a reporter while decrying “political violence.” He will keep insisting that the media are using the bomb/terror story for “political gain” against Republicans.
Unity, Mr. President? Sure thing. The man’s calls for unity don’t mean a single thing.