Trump Interviewed by Dr. Phil

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Facts

  • Former US Pres. Donald Trump's interview with television host Dr. Phil McGraw aired Thursday. The two discussed Trump’s recent criminal trial in New York and the alleged weaponization of the justice system, among other topics.1
  • When asked about the “darkest” moments he has faced over the last decade, Trump said, “You have to be very strong. You’re fighting very evil forces.” He also said that Pres. Joe Biden is being controlled by 'evil forces' but wouldn't elaborate.2
  • McGraw seemed to largely agree with Trump’s claims about the political motives behind his legal troubles, including his conviction in Manhattan last week. However, he urged Trump to say “enough is enough” and not prosecute his political enemies if he wins the presidency in November.3
  • In response, the presumptive GOP presidential nominee told McGraw, “Sometimes revenge can be justified,” while also noting that his revenge could come through “success.”2
  • Trump also told McGraw he would reveal his vice-presidential nominee at the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee in mid-July. The Trump campaign recently requested more information on a number of contenders.4
  • The interview aired on McGraw’s newly launched “Merit Street” network. The discussion also turned to how the Trump family has been impacted by his trials, general treatment by the media, the Russia collusion probe, and a potential war with Russia.5

Sources: 1The Hill, 2New York Post, 3New York Times, 4NY1 and 5Daily Mail.

Narratives

  • Pro-Trump narrative, as provided by The Post Millennial. This interview demonstrates the massive shift in American politics toward Trump, even while the establishment is doing everything it can to censor it and the positive reactions to it. As McGraw noted, many people have changed their minds on Trump and are ready to vote for him. The political witch hunt and the biased media coverage are endearing Trump to the American people.
  • Anti-Trump narrative, as provided by The New Republic. Even in a softball interview, Trump couldn’t contain his desire to exact revenge on his political rivals. He has been clear about his desire to punish his political enemies, and the sympathetic interviewer didn’t press him on his dangerous fantasies. No matter the setting, Trump will always reveal himself as a threat to a free America.

Predictions