The Apotheosis of Donald Trump
On the president’s 80th birthday, it became clear that he has entered his decline.
TL;DR
- A UFC event on Donald Trump's 80th birthday at the White House is described as garish and crass, reflecting the president's style.
- The event symbolized Trump's belief in discarding institutional restraints for 'Trump 2.0,' characterized by indiscipline and improvisation.
- The administration is depicted as detached from reality, with Cabinet meetings described as exercises in self-abasement.
- Trump's actions are cited as causing policy failures in foreign relations (Iran, NATO), the economy, and humanitarian aid (USAID, PEPFAR).
- Concerns are raised about his appointments, the weaponization of government agencies, and self-enrichment.
- Trump's approval ratings and consumer confidence have fallen, his coalition is fracturing, and signs of Congressional resistance are emerging.
- The article details patterns of Trump's personality disorder, exacerbated by advancing age, leading to increased impulsivity, rage, and detachment from reality.
- Physical signs of aging and cognitive decline are observed, such as meandering speeches, disorganized behavior, and a narrowing vocabulary.
- The author concludes that Trump is seeing the world he wounded turn against him, likening his situation to an old ruler whose reign ended in ruin.