Trump Declares Victory, Labels Media ‘The Enemy Camp’

Image Name: Donald Trump’s Victory Speech

Image Credit: Business Today

In the early hours of Wednesday morning in West Palm Beach, former President Donald Trump addressed a crowd of supporters, family, and campaign team members as he declared victory in the U.S. presidential race. Notably absent from his thank-you acknowledgments was the media, whom he referred to as “the enemy camp.”

During his speech, Trump introduced his running mate, Ohio Senator JD Vance, with a jab at the press. “I told JD to go into the enemy camp. He just goes: OK. Which one? CNN? MSNBC? He’s like the only guy who looks forward to going on, and then just absolutely obliterates them,” Trump said. This statement highlights his long-standing antagonistic relationship with the media, whom he has often labeled as the “crooked media” and the “enemy of the people.”

Trump’s hostility towards the press is well-documented, but in recent weeks, his rhetoric has intensified. Less than a week prior to his victory speech, Trump made a controversial joke at a campaign rally, implying he wouldn’t mind if reporters were shot at in the event of another assassination attempt against him. Reflecting on an incident in July where a gunman fired at him during a rally, Trump lamented about gaps in his bulletproof shields. “To get me, somebody would have to shoot through the fake news and I don’t mind that so much,” he commented. He further described the press as “seriously corrupt people.”

Trump’s communications director later issued a statement claiming that these comments were meant to express concern for the safety of the news media. Despite the explanation, Trump’s remarks have continued to fuel his combative stance against the press.

On Wednesday morning, Trump declared victory over his Democratic opponent, Kamala Harris, and promised a “golden age” for the United States. “This was a movement like nobody’s ever seen before, and frankly, this was, I believe, the greatest political movement of all time. There’s never been anything like this in this country, and maybe beyond,” Trump proclaimed.

As Trump takes on another term, his relationship with the media remains a contentious issue. The former president’s rhetoric and actions underscore his view of the press as adversaries rather than allies in the democratic process. The implications of this stance are significant, as they influence public perception of the media and its role in holding leaders accountable.

Trump’s comments and actions are part of a broader pattern of attacking institutions that he perceives as adversarial. This approach has garnered both support and criticism, reflecting the polarized nature of contemporary American politics. As the country moves forward, the interaction between political leaders and the media will continue to be a focal point of discussion and debate.

This story was originally featured in The Guardian