Donald Trump’s escalating rhetoric reaches new heights, but voter impact remains uncertain | US News

October 18, 2024 TruthUSA

Donald Trump has surpassed his previous levels of extreme rhetoric. His campaign remarks as it approaches its end are even more extreme.

Take, for example, his direct quotes from the “enemy within” interview on Fox News on 13 October.

When asked about “bureaucrats undermining you” in a potential second term, he responded: “We have two enemies: we have the outside enemy, and then we have the enemy from within.

“And the enemy from within, in my opinion, is more dangerous than China, Russia, and all these countries.”

Referring to Adam Schiff, a Democratic candidate for the Senate, he remarked: “Adam ‘Shifty’ Schiff, who’s a total sleazebag, is going to become a senator. But I call him the enemy from within.”

When asked about the potential chaos on election day from outside agitators, he stated: “I think the bigger problem are the people from within.

“We have some very bad people, we have some sick people, radical left lunatics.

“It should be very easily handled by, if necessary, by National Guard or, if really necessary by the military.”

Critics view these remarks as a threat to use the military against political opponents, even though he would need to be president to attempt it.

They accuse Trump of promoting an authoritarian agenda – a claim they argue is supported by his own words.

Donald Trump has a history of using dehumanizing language towards specific groups, undermining institutions that provide checks on power, threatening the media, and implying the desire to be a dictator “except on day one.”

Whether he truly resembles an autocrat-in-waiting is a matter of perspective, as his supporters do not perceive it as such.

‘Far-left activists’

In response to the “enemy within” remarks, Trump’s running mate JD Vance dismissed the notion that Trump was suggesting using the military against political opponents.

He explained: “We have various far-left activists discussing civil unrest in the country if Donald Trump were to be re-elected as president.

“Whether they are Democrats or Republicans, if there are riots in American streets, we will not allow it.

“We uphold law and order in this country. That’s what Donald Trump is emphasizing.”

The interpretation of his words lies in the perception and reception of his language.

‘Fascist to the core’

In a highly critical analysis, Trump has been labeled a “fascist” by his top military adviser in office.

General Mark Milley, retired, has referred to Trump as “fascist to the core” and “the most dangerous person to this country”.

This authoritative commentary, coming from someone who was directly involved, resonates with others.

Major-General Randy Manner, also retired, draws comparisons between Trump and Adolf Hitler.

Maj-Gen. Manner is a member of the National Security Leaders for America, a group of retired, senior military figures.

Although spanning different political views, they collectively support Kamala Harris.

Maj-Gen. Manner stated to Sky News: “By definition, Trump is a fascist.

“Powerful and authoritarian individuals align, presenting significant dangers to the world in terms of peace.

“Many of Trump’s actions in the United States resemble those of Adolf Hitler between 1922 and 1933.

“There are numerous similarities in style, technique, division of people, and utilizing a group of thugs to enforce without regard for the rule of law.

“The parallels are stark.”

Kamala Harris sees this as an opportunity to shift the polls. Transitioning from an initial emphasis on joy and opportunity, she is now highlighting the threats she believes Donald Trump poses to democracy.

Ultimately, it’s up to the voter to interpret Trump’s intentions and decide whether his words should be taken seriously – and if not, why not?

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