By John Q. Hosedrinker 
Robert F. Kennedy Jr., the Trump administration’s appointee for health protection, recently swam with his grandchildren in Rock Creek, a waterway with a decades-long swimming ban due to high bacteria levels and sewage contamination. Fox News host Jesse Watters downplayed the incident, despite evidence of high E. coli levels posing significant health risks. This event highlights a stark contrast between the administration’s rhetoric and actions regarding public health. The incident also raises concerns about the fitness of Kennedy for his appointed role.
Read the original article here
Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s recent swim in what’s been described as a polluted waterway, possibly containing fecal matter, has sparked a flurry of reactions, and it speaks volumes about the nature of Trumpism. The incident, and the subsequent defense of it by a Fox News host, highlights a disturbing pattern of behavior and a willingness to accept almost anything, no matter how unsanitary or illogical, if it aligns with a particular political ideology.
The sheer fact that a prominent political figure, a potential presidential candidate, would willingly swim in water described as contaminated with human waste is, frankly, astounding. One would expect a basic level of concern for personal hygiene and health, yet this incident seems to suggest a disregard for such common sense. This isn’t simply a matter of a poor decision; it suggests a mindset that prioritizes something else entirely.
What makes this even more unsettling is the response from a Fox News host. Instead of criticizing Kennedy’s actions, this host, supposedly a voice of reason and authority, seemed to defend or even condone the behavior. This suggests a deeper problem; a lack of critical thinking and a prioritization of loyalty to the movement above all else, even basic common sense. This selective application of judgment—what is deemed acceptable or unacceptable behavior seems to hinge entirely on whether the actor aligns with their political worldview—is a hallmark of cult-like thinking.
The incident isn’t just about the swim itself; it’s about the broader context. The responses, both from Kennedy’s supporters and from certain media outlets, reveal a disturbing willingness to overlook questionable actions or even celebrate them as acts of defiance against perceived enemies. This kind of uncritical acceptance of potentially harmful behavior is a significant indicator of a group operating under a cult-like mentality.
The narrative that emerged in the wake of the event further illustrates this point. Instead of acknowledging potential health risks, there’s a tendency to frame it as a courageous act of rebellion, a rejection of established norms and sensitivities. The act of swimming in the polluted water, in this warped narrative, becomes a symbol of resistance and toughness. This twisting of reality, this blatant denial of obvious facts, is a common trait in cult-like groups.
The parallels to other instances of blind loyalty within Trumpism are undeniable. Similar instances of ignoring or downplaying scandals or questionable behaviors have occurred repeatedly, demonstrating a pattern of prioritizing group loyalty above all else. This pattern suggests a structure where critical thinking and independent judgment are actively discouraged, where unwavering allegiance is the most important virtue.
Furthermore, the online commentary surrounding the incident was revealing. The comments ranged from outright approval of Kennedy’s actions to sarcastic suggestions that all Trump supporters should follow suit, underscoring the complete disconnect from reality and a dark humor that normalizes potentially harmful behavior. This suggests a shared belief system that prioritizes symbolic actions over actual consequences.
In conclusion, the incident involving Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and the subsequent reaction within certain circles provide a compelling illustration of the cult-like aspects of Trumpism. The lack of concern for public health, the willingness to defend questionable behavior, and the twisting of the narrative into a symbolic act of defiance all point to a mindset that prioritizes unwavering loyalty and a rejection of rational thought above all else. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the potential dangers of such a mentality and highlights the need for critical thinking and independent judgment in the face of powerful narratives and group pressures. The willingness to dismiss such a concerning event speaks volumes about the inherent nature of the movement, making it a clear example of the cult-like characteristics often observed.