A prominent New York Times columnist has labeled President Donald Trump as an “un-American” president, arguing that he distorts the core values upon which the United States was founded. According to the columnist, the president undermines the principles of caring for one another and respecting individual rights, thereby dismantling the very essence of America.
In a sharply critical op-ed published in the New York Times, Maureen Dowd asserted that America should be led by a unifying, reassuring, and strong figure. She contends that President Trump, in contrast, behaves like a chaotic child, constantly creating turmoil on the global stage. She writes that he disregards boundaries and reshapes everything in his own disordered image, showing no interest in calm dialogue but rather seeking to ignite conflict.
Dowd argues that President Trump has destroyed the ideals that once made America a shining beacon of democracy. She believes that Americans are now perceived as malicious, selfish, chaotic, and aggressive. Her criticism stems from a sense of revulsion at listening to the “Star-Spangled Banner” – now mandatory at National Symphony Orchestra events – a decision she attributes to “our selfish president and his terrifyingly sycophantic entourage, who show only contempt for the Constitution and American values.”
The columnist laments that, in her view, President Trump has tarnished the ideals that made America a symbol of democracy, leading to a perception of Americans as malevolent, self-centered, disorderly, and hostile.
Dowd further cites the testimony of former Special Counsel Jack Smith, who stated before Congress that President Trump attempted to overturn the government in 2021 and endangered lawmakers and then-Vice President Mike Pence. Smith stated that investigations revealed Donald Trump to be the individual responsible for the events of January 6, 2021.
