Capitol Report
By State Representative, Leon D. Young
Leon D. Young
Donald Trump is at it again. Apparently incensed that his poll numbers has taken a dip in Iowa, to once Ben Carson and now Ted Cruz, the Donald is resorting to his old tricks: fearmongering.
In an obvious attempt to seize the moment and capitalize on the horrific terrorist attack in San Bernardino, CA, Trump has unleashed his latest diatribe, which is calculated to incite controversy while unhinging certain voters in the electorate.
Earlier this week, Trump called for the United States to bar all Muslims from entering the country until the nation’s leaders (Congress) can “figure out what is going on.”
A prohibition on Muslims – an unprecedented proposal by a leading American presidential candidate – is an idea that’s truly more typically associated with hate groups.
Repudiation of Trump’s remarks was swift and severe among religious groups and politicians from both parties. Jeb Bush, a former governor of Florida and presidential rival, responded by saying that Mr. Trump is “unhinged.”
While another rival, Senator Marco Rubio of Florida, called the remarks, “offensive and outlandish.”
Not to be outdone in condemning Trump, Hillary Clinton said the idea was “reprehensible, prejudiced and divisive.” In addition, organizations representing Jews, Christians and those of other faiths quickly joined in denouncing Mr. Trump’s proposal.
Not surprisingly, Trump wants to have it both ways — in talking out of both sides of his mouth.
Back in September, Trump was quoted as having declared “I love Muslims.” However, Trump’s sentiments about Muslims has changed drastically since the Paris terrorists attacks.
As evident by the fact that he has recently called for a database to track Muslims in America; and repeated discredited rumors that thousands of Muslims celebrated in New Jersey after the World Trade attack on September 11, 2001.
Naturally, Trump is unapologetic and would never admit that he did something wrong.
If anything, Trump continues to double-down on his inflammatory rhetoric and ridiculous contentions.
According to Trump, there will be more World Trade attacks unless we prohibit Muslims from entering the country.
This only serves to frighten gullible people, while promoting a “them” versus “us” mentality, which plays directly into the hands of ISIS.
I’m tired of hearing people talk about Trump’s tough-talking style and how he is needed to get things done.
Let’s not get this thing twisted, Donald Trump, at best, is a reality TV personality who has advanced his personal brand by bullying people.
He is completely clueless about the powers of the presidency and the constraints of the U.S. Constitution.
To put this in his own vernacular: Donald Trump, you’re fired!