By Chris Uchenna Agbedo
Guest Columnist
Prof Agbedo writes from University of Nigeria, Nsukka
America has long been celebrated as the bastion of democracy, a beacon of hope and a model for nations worldwide. However, the legacy of Donald Trump—marked by toxic rhetoric, criminal prosecutions, and convictions—has cast a shadow over this image. As the United States grapples with these challenges, the assassination attempt on Donald Trump by Thomas Matthew Crooks at a campaign rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, adds a complex mix to the unfolding scenario. The ugly incident has sent shockwaves through the political landscape, raising significant concerns not only in the United States but also for emerging democracies around the world. This violent episode underscores the volatility of political environments and the potential consequences of divisive rhetoric and extreme partisanship. The implications extend far beyond its borders, raising concerns about the fate of African states still struggling to institutionalise democracy as a system of government. For emerging democracies, this incident holds critical lessons and implications that must be carefully considered.
Donald Trump’s tenure as president was characterised by unprecedented polarisation and contentious rhetoric. His frequent attacks on political opponents, the media, and democratic institutions eroded the norms of civil discourse and respect for the rule of law. As far back as 2016, Amnesty International drew global attention to the atavistic toxicity of Mr. Trump’s rhetoric. The Organisation condemned Trump’s incendiary speech mannerisms as ‘poisonous,’ asserting that his rhetoric had made the world ‘darker.’ It highlighted how Trump’s speech had contributed to a climate of fear, hatred, and intolerance. Amnesty warned that this ‘poisonous’ rhetoric had the power to embolden oppressive regimes and undermine human rights worldwide.
Donald Trump’s rhetoric has been characterised by its confrontational and often derogatory tone. From the campaign trail to the Oval Office, his speeches and social media posts have frequently targeted individuals, groups, and nations with inflammatory language. This assessment remains profoundly relevant today, underscoring the enduring toxicity of Trump’s rhetoric and its far-reaching implications.
On the domestic front, Trump’s rhetoric has exacerbated divisions within the United States. The rise in hate crimes, the increasing polarisation of political discourse, and the erosion of trust in democratic institutions can all be traced, in part, to the environment fostered by Trump’s language. The chants of ‘lock her up’ and ‘you’re fired’ (directed at Hillary Clinton and Joe Biden respectively) have become symbols of a broader trend towards hostility and confrontation, undermining the principles of civil discourse and democratic engagement. Words have power, and the language used by leaders can shape public attitudes and behaviours in profound ways.
Trump’s use of ‘poisonous’ rhetoric has shown how destructive this power can be when wielded irresponsibly. It has demonstrated the potential for language to sow division, incite violence, and erode the foundations of democratic society. Globally, Trump’s rhetoric has had a chilling effect on the promotion of human rights and democratic values. Authoritarian leaders have taken cues from Trump’s playbook, using similar language to justify their own repressive actions. The normalisation of such rhetoric on the world stage has made it more challenging for advocates of democracy and human rights to hold these leaders accountable.
For African states still in the nascent stages of democratic development, the erosion of America’s democratic image presents a disheartening scenario. Many African nations have looked to the United States for guidance and inspiration in building their own democratic institutions. America’s struggles with maintaining its democratic ideals could undermine the confidence and aspirations of these countries.
The perception of America as a beacon of democracy is crucial for African states striving to build and sustain democratic institutions. If the U.S., with its long-standing democratic traditions, is seen faltering, it may lead to skepticism about the viability and resilience of democracy itself. This erosion of credibility can embolden autocratic leaders and weaken pro-democracy movements. The toxic rhetoric and divisive politics that characterised Trump’s presidency could serve as a troubling model for leaders in Africa. The normalisation of such behaviour at the highest levels of American politics risks legitimising similar conduct elsewhere, potentially destabilising fragile democracies. African leaders might feel less constrained by democratic norms and more inclined to adopt populist and authoritarian tactics.
Trump’s criminal prosecutions and convictions highlight the importance of accountability and the rule of law. While this demonstrates that no one is above the law, it also underscores the challenges of maintaining a robust legal system capable of addressing corruption and misconduct. African states, many of which struggle with issues of corruption and weak legal institutions, may find it even more challenging to enforce the rule of law if the American model appears flawed.
The foregoing brings us to the paradox of Trump’s vitriolic rhetoric and the quest to ‘make America great again’ and its implications for his vision of American greatness. It beggars belief how Donald Trump, a figure who has ridden the crest of vitriolic rhetoric throughout his political career, hopes to fulfill his promise to ‘Make America Great Again.’ Rhetoric is a powerful tool in shaping public perception and influencing political outcomes.
Trump’s use of provocative and often inflammatory language has undeniably energised his base, creating a strong sense of identity and solidarity among his supporters. However, this same rhetoric has also deepened political divides and alienated a significant portion of the American populace. To ‘Make America Great Again,’ a leader must unite the country, fostering a sense of shared purpose and common goals.
Trump’s rhetoric, however, has often done the opposite. By constantly vilifying opponents and promoting an us-versus-them mentality, he has exacerbated tensions and sown discord. The chants of ‘lock her up’ and ‘you’re fired’ are emblematic of a style that thrives on conflict rather than cooperation. This divisiveness undermines the very fabric of a unified national identity essential for true greatness. Greatness in a democracy is also measured by the quality of its civil discourse. The ability to engage in respectful, constructive debate is a cornerstone of democratic governance. Trump’s penchant for derogatory remarks and personal attacks has eroded the standards of public discourse. This degradation not only impacts political interactions but also trickles down to societal norms, fostering a culture where incivility becomes acceptable.
Effective governance requires collaboration and compromise, traits that are difficult to cultivate in a climate of hostility. Trump’s combative style has often led to legislative gridlock and heightened partisan conflict, hindering progress on critical issues such as healthcare, immigration, and infrastructure. The focus on inflammatory rhetoric detracts from substantive policy discussions, impeding the development of comprehensive solutions to the nation’s problems. America’s global standing is also influenced by the conduct and rhetoric of its leaders. Trump’s aggressive and often undiplomatic language has strained relationships with allies and emboldened adversaries. Greatness on the world stage requires not only strength but also diplomacy and the ability to build coalitions. The legacy of Trump’s rhetoric has been one of isolation rather than cooperation, impacting America’s ability to lead effectively on global issues.
The culmination of this divisive approach oxygenated by toxic rhetoric is evident in his criminal convictions, making him the first former president in American history to face such legal repercussions. Trump’s criminal prosecutions and subsequent convictions are a direct consequence of the culture he cultivated. His disregard for legal boundaries and ethical standards, often cloaked in bombastic rhetoric, led to numerous investigations and legal challenges. The charges of falsifying business records, among others, reflect a pattern of behaviour that prioritisrd personal gain and power over the rule of law and accountability. The fact that Donald Trump is the first former president to face criminal convictions is historically significant. It highlights a critical juncture in American politics where the actions of a leader have resulted in unprecedented legal scrutiny. This development is a pointer to the fact that no one, not even a former president, is above the law. It reinforces the fundamental democratic principle that leaders must be held accountable for their actions.
The violent episode at Donald Trump’s campaign rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, where Thomas Matthew Crooks presumably opened fire on Mr. Trump, raises significant questions about the motivations behind such an extreme act. Could Trump’s legendary negativities – polarising rhetoric, criminal convictions, generic impact on American politics – have been the catalyst for Crooks’ violent outburst? Perhaps, understanding the mindset of Crooks is crucial to discerning the causative factors behind his actions.
While it may be speculative and conjectural to definitively state what motivated Crooks without access to his personal thoughts and feelings, it seems tenable to consider Trump’s overweening divisive approach to governance and criminal convictions, as the significant factors. Phrases like “lock her up,” referring to Hillary Clinton, and “fake news,” aimed at the media, have not only energised his base but also contributed to an environment where extreme actions feel justified. This toxic atmosphere may have influenced individuals like Thomas Crooks, pushing them towards radical actions.
The constant vilification of opponents and the portrayal of political battles as existential threats can have profound psychological impacts, potentially leading to violence. His recent criminal convictions, including 34 felony charges of falsifying business records, have further tarnished his legacy and intensified the already heated political climate. For some, including possibly Crooks, these convictions could symbolise a perceived betrayal of public trust and an embodiment of the corruption Trump once vowed to eradicate.
Crooks’ actions might have been driven by a perception of Trump as a figure, who, despite his promises to ‘drain the swamp,’ became emblematic of the very issues he decried. The sense of disillusionment and betrayal felt by some could potentially lead to extreme actions.
Crooks’ background as a registered Republican who also donated to a Democratic-aligned group suggests a complex and conflicted individual. This duality may reflect broader societal tensions, where people are torn between ideological extremes, leading to unpredictable and violent outcomes. All in all, Cooks’ assassination attempt on Mr. Trump portends profound implications for emerging democracies and teachable moments for political leaders of African states.
Thomas Matthew Crooks’ assassination attempt on Donald Trump has reverberated far beyond the United States, holding profound implications for emerging democracies and offering teachable moments for political leaders, especially in African states. This event highlights the critical importance of fostering political environments that prioritise unity, respect, and the rule of law, as well as speaks to the potential consequences of divisive rhetoric and unethical leadership. The attempted assassination of a prominent political figure like Donald Trump highlights the inherent fragility of democratic institutions, especially in societies where political tensions run high. Such fledgling democracies, often characterised by nascent institutions and fledgling norms, are particularly vulnerable to such destabilizing events. The attack points to the imperative of strengthening democratic structures and ensuring that they are robust enough to withstand crises. Most often, they face the challenge of building and sustaining robust democratic institutions.
For countries in Africa such as Nigeria, where 25 years of unbroken democracy have on the flipside become 25 years of ‘Democratic Debt Accumulation’ (courtesy of BusinessDay 23 June 2024), Crooks’ misadventure underscores the need for strong, resilient institutions that can withstand political turbulence and safeguard the democratic process.
Leaders must strive to use language that promotes unity and peace rather than division and conflict. Inflammatory rhetoric can not only deepen societal divides but also incite violence and undermine the democratic fabric. Leaders in emerging democracies should take heed of the dangers posed by inflammatory rhetoric and strive to promote unity and understanding.
The divisions in American society, exacerbated by Trump’s rhetoric and actions, mirror challenges faced by many emerging democracies. The aftermath of the assassination attempt should prompt leaders to focus on reconciliation and bridge-building. Political reconciliation involves addressing the grievances of all segments of society, promoting inclusive governance, and fostering a culture of dialogue and cooperation. This is essential for the long-term stability and health of any democracy.
The foregoing discussion has far-reaching implications for African states. African democracies must work to build strong, independent institutions that can uphold the rule of law and protect the democratic process from disruptions and violence. Leaders must recognise the power of their words and actions. Toxic rhetoric and divisive politics can have long-lasting detrimental effects on democratic societies.
African leaders and citizens must strive to foster a culture of respectful dialogue and constructive debate, avoiding the pitfalls of incendiary language and polarization. Responsible leadership that prioritises unity and respect is crucial for maintaining peace and stability.
The safety of political figures and the general public must be a top priority. Investing in security measures and preparedness can prevent violent incidents and enhance public trust. Transparent and fair legal processes are essential for holding leaders accountable and maintaining public confidence in governance.