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The latest eruption from the former president involves his ire, once again, directed at the returning host of a late-night comedy show: Jimmy Kimmel. It appears the comedian’s return to the airwaves has been met with a level of outrage from Trump, culminating in an “unhinged new rant” and, crucially, a direct threat of legal action against ABC, the network carrying Kimmel’s show. This sort of behavior is becoming increasingly predictable and reveals a few telling facets of his mindset.
Firstly, the fact that Trump is so agitated over Kimmel’s return is, in itself, quite revealing. If Kimmel’s show truly had low ratings and a lack of popularity, as Trump has implied previously, why the obsession? The timing of the threat is key. The implication that the return was somehow not just a programming decision, but a slight, a personal attack, suggests a deep-seated sensitivity about his public image and a craving for control. He seems to interpret any form of criticism, or even perceived criticism, as an active threat.
The threat of legal action is practically a signature move. It’s a common tactic employed to silence critics and create a chilling effect. The idea that legal action will be “lucrative” is a particularly troubling revelation. It suggests that the underlying motivation isn’t about upholding principles or correcting perceived injustices, but instead, a desire for financial gain and the intimidation of perceived adversaries. This sort of action is a transparent attempt to bully and coerce, using the threat of a costly and time-consuming legal battle as a weapon. It’s a clear indication of the kind of person he is and what really matters to him.
This scenario also highlights Trump’s apparent fear of public perception. His fixation on ratings, both his own and others, hints that he understands the importance of public opinion. It shows the desperation he has in making sure everyone is talking about him and nothing else. His reaction indicates that he sees Kimmel as a threat to his power and influence. This behavior is of a person who believes that winning equates to complete control and who is willing to use any tool at his disposal to stay on top, and on top of everyone’s mind.
The narrative also raises interesting questions. If his administration had nothing to do with Kimmel’s original “cancellation”, why the outrage now? And why the threat against ABC? Perhaps it is as simple as the fact that he does not like to be made fun of, and the idea of not being in the headlines every day is not something he appreciates.
The reactions of others in the public sphere are also noteworthy. Many are calling out the hypocrisy of someone who has spent his career building an image of someone who can handle anything, while simultaneously showing such a thin skin when faced with criticism. Others are pointing out the obvious, that this is all about projection, that he is the one who cannot handle the reality of the situation, and is quick to lash out in anger to take the attention away from himself.
The core of Trump’s response to Kimmel’s return exposes a pattern: a man who lashes out at anyone and everyone who challenges his authority, or who dares to poke fun at him. This behavior is a dangerous trend, especially considering the potential implications for freedom of speech, and how easy it is for those in power to attempt to manipulate and threaten others to get what they want.