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characterised by a unique mix of of such a leadership style extend beyond
populism, nationalism, and a penchant for political discourse; they have cultivated
confrontation. His leadership style, often a culture of hostility and distrust,
described as demagogic, is defined by a undermining the very institutions that
direct appeal to emotions and prejudices uphold democracy.
rather than reasoned arguments. This One of the most striking aspects of
approach has reshaped the political Trump’s presidency was his prolific
landscape, creating an environment where use of Twitter, which he employed as a
divisive rhetoric became the norm. His primary communication tool. His tweets
ability to galvanise a dedicated base, often transformed how political leaders engage
through incendiary language, has raised with the public. Beneath the spectacle
questions about his statesmanship. and theatrics lies a shrewd strategist
who understands the power of image and
branding. Trump’s tweets frequently
blurred the lines between fact and fiction,
contributing to a climate of misinformation
that challenges the very foundations of
informed democratic discourse.
This direct line to the public empowered
him to address issues at lightning speed,
allowing rapid responses to criticism
or events. However, it also created a
culture where inflammatory comments
escalated tensions and deepened divisions,
often overshadowing substantive policy
discussions. His tweets, designed to
provoke emotional reactions, served as
both a rallying cry for supporters and a
source of outrage for opponents.
WhatsApp forward. Source unknown
By framing issues in stark, black-and-
white terms, he has successfully painted
himself as a champion of the common man,
standing against a supposedly corrupt
elite. This rhetoric has not only polarised Fear is a powerful motivator, uniting
the electorate but has also fostered an people against perceived threats to their
atmosphere where dissenting voices are well-being, their families, or their country.
silenced or ridiculed. The consequences The issue of immigration was at the heart
SENIORS TODAY | ISSUE #68 | FEBRUARY 2025 11
