Is Trump really that different, or just less sophisticated and more refreshingly forthright? Political journalism tends to engage in political speak, unfortunately often along partisan lines. Trump refuses to engage the media on its own terms, manipulates hostility into victimhood and counterpunches to great effect. He exposes most political speech for what it is, and what it is increasingly perceived to be outside the bubble. This reinforces his image as a political figure who is willing to challenge an out-of-touch, arrogant, intellectually stale, conformist and broken establishment. Unfortunately, the more the media engage in theatrics, double down on hubris and frame Trump in hyperbole, the easier it is for him to deflect real interrogation. The media should calm down, there are plenty of good reasons to oppose and engage Trump that don’t rely on manufactured outrage over his every word. Helgard Muller Via e-mail

Subscribe now to unlock this article.

Support BusinessLIVE’s award-winning journalism for R129 per month (digital access only).

There’s never been a more important time to support independent journalism in SA. Our subscription packages now offer an ad-free experience for readers.

Cancel anytime.

Would you like to comment on this article?
Sign up (it's quick and free) or sign in now.

Speech Bubbles

Please read our Comment Policy before commenting.