By John Q. Hosedrinker 
President Trump recently claimed to have invented the word “equalize,” despite its centuries-long existence, while announcing a new executive order aiming to lower prescription drug prices by 80% through price negotiation or government-set limits based on international prices. This order mandates a 30-day deadline for drugmakers to comply. Separately, he expressed fondness for the term “groceries,” highlighting its “old-fashioned” appeal. These pronouncements occurred amidst recent policy announcements and speeches.
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Donald Trump’s claim to have invented the word “equalize” is, to put it mildly, inaccurate. He declared this “new word,” supposedly the “best word,” during a discussion about his plan to lower drug prices. The audacity of this assertion is striking, especially given its demonstrably false nature.
The reality is that “equalize” has been a part of the English language for centuries. Dictionaries clearly show its first recorded usage dating back to 1599, well before Mr. Trump’s birth. This fact alone exposes the hollowness of his boast, a common occurrence in his public pronouncements.
This incident highlights a recurring pattern in Mr. Trump’s rhetoric: an apparent inability or unwillingness to acknowledge established facts. Whether through genuine ignorance or deliberate misrepresentation, he frequently presents opinions as established truths. The claim regarding “equalize” is merely one example among many, illustrating a tendency to inflate his own importance and contributions.
The humorous irony of this situation is not lost on many. The juxtaposition of his grandiose self-proclamation with the easily verifiable historical evidence creates a comedic effect. It’s reminiscent of other instances where he’s taken credit for things he didn’t accomplish.
Beyond the comedic aspect, however, lies a more concerning issue: the potential for misinformation. When a prominent figure like Mr. Trump makes such unsubstantiated claims, it contributes to a climate where factual accuracy is diminished. This undermines public trust in institutions and information sources, further fracturing already divided society.
The inherent absurdity of the statement allows for some levity. It’s a moment that invites ridicule and underscores his lack of knowledge. The sheer audacity of claiming to invent a word with such a long and established history is both comical and alarming. It seems as if he seeks to remake history, to rewrite it in a way that enhances his image and legacy.
However, beyond the amusement, a more substantial reflection emerges. The incident underscores a prevailing pattern of behavior: a disregard for truth and accuracy. It is precisely this behavior that has become a significant cause of division and distrust, with implications extending far beyond a simple verbal gaffe.
This claim about “equalize” also evokes past incidents where Mr. Trump has made similarly inaccurate claims. He’s previously asserted that he invented other phrases, concepts, and even technologies that predate him by decades or even centuries. This consistent pattern strongly suggests a deliberate attempt to manipulate public perception and solidify his position.
The situation highlights the broader problem of unsubstantiated claims made by public figures. It’s crucial for individuals to be critically aware of the information they consume and to cross-reference claims with reliable sources. Blind acceptance of such pronouncements, regardless of the source, can have serious consequences.
In conclusion, Mr. Trump’s claim about inventing the word “equalize” is not only demonstrably false but also a symptomatic illustration of a more significant problem: the erosion of factual accuracy and the spread of misinformation in public discourse. His pronouncements serve as a reminder to remain vigilant in our evaluation of information, irrespective of the speaker’s prominence or authority. The readily available historical context of “equalize,” dating back to 1599, allows for a quick and effective debunking of his claim. This simple example serves as a powerful illustration of the dangers of unchecked pronouncements from powerful figures.