Communication or Confusion: Analyzing Trump’s Public Messaging During the Pandemic
Here’s an excerpt:
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One of the most noticeable issues with Trump’s public messaging has been the frequency with which he has sent out conflicting or unclear messages. For example, in a single tweet, Trump has urged Americans to “just disinfect the area” and also claimed that the virus is “under control.” This type of inconsistency has led to confusion among the public, with many individuals unsure of how to respond to the pandemic.
Another example is Trump’s repeated claims that the malaria drug hydroxychloroquine is an effective treatment for COVID-19. While some early research suggested that the drug could be useful in treating the disease, numerous subsequent studies have cast doubt on its effectiveness. Yet, Trump continued to advocate for its use, even going so far as to reveal that he had taken the drug himself. This type of confusion has undermined the public’s trust in the administration’s scientific advice.
Furthermore, Trump’s tendency to use social media to announce policy decisions, often without consulting his public health officials, has created confusion among the American people. For instance, in March, Trump announced on Twitter that he was ordering a 15-day national lockdown, only to later clarify that he meant to say he was recommending, rather than mandating, the measure. This type of confusion has led to frustration and a sense of uncertainty among the public.
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