Staff Reports
In a predictably charged press conference held at Mar-a-Lago, President-Elect Donald Trump showcased his talent for cutting through the political noise and tackling serious issues head-on. The event covered a variety of topics, including significant investments in data centers by DAMAC Properties and Trump’s bold ambition to rebrand the Gulf of Mexico as the Gulf of America. The new name, he argued, reflects both pride in the nation and a stance against immigration policies that have allowed millions to enter the U.S. unchecked.
Trump did not hold back when discussing the Panama Canal, drawing a curious parallel between historical policy decisions and contemporary governance. While addressing the media, he referred to the Panama Canal Treaties orchestrated by former President Jimmy Carter as a notable blunder, asserting that this deal significantly impacted Carter’s political downfall in the 1980 election. Trump highlighted that handing over control of the Panama Canal was not just a policy mistake but a strategic error with lasting repercussions for America’s military and economic security.
The media, quick to take offense, seemed to believe that discussing the Panama Canal during the period of mourning for Carter was in poor taste. They feigned indignation, eager to defend a figure they deem sacrosanct despite Carter’s controversial policies. Trump, however, was steadfast, clearly delineating his critique of the policy from any personal attacks on Carter. He aptly pointed out that it was not he who decided to bring up such contentious topics; rather, the media’s own line of questioning warranted that discussion.
WATCH: Donald Trump Shuts Down Reporter Who Got Fauxfended Over His Jimmy Carter/Panama Canal Criticismshttps://t.co/zFfHW9Ikz3
— RedState (@RedState) January 7, 2025
In a world where the mainstream media continually positions itself as the arbiters of acceptable speech, Trump’s comments struck a nerve. They perpetuate the narrative that any critique of a Democratic president must be silenced, especially when that president has passed away. The truth is, debates about the legacies of leaders like Carter are essential, yet they remain stifled by media narratives that prioritize decorum over honest discourse. It’s no surprise that these same outlets would rush to deliver their verdicts if the roles were reversed, ensuring that any criticism of Trump would be met with less sensitivity.
It is illuminating to consider that the left, including journalists and politicians, has long abandoned the notions of civility and decorum. Their shock at Trump’s comments only underscores their glaring hypocrisy. They have rallied ferocious critiques against Trump throughout his presidency, and yet they pretend to be offended by his remarks regarding a political figure they admire. In this jab-and-counter climate, it seems there will always be a slanted view of who deserves criticism and, unfortunately, who does not.
