Donald Trump has just given his first Congressional Address and it seems he used the momentous occasion to use thinly-veiled propaganda to fuel his own political gains.
Emotional propaganda, at that.
Of course, there was the whole ‘Make America Great Again’ promises that have become synonymous with Trump’s politics with gems such as ‘Buy American, Hire American’ with a lot of ‘God Bless America’ in between but this time, he really brought out the emotions and patriotism in the audience.
He announced a new Homeland Security initiative to ‘save’ Americans from illegal immigrants.
“I have ordered the Department of Homeland Security to create an office to serve American Victims. The office is called VOICE –- Victims Of Immigration Crime Engagement. We are providing a voice to those who have been ignored by our media, and silenced by special interests.”
He then pointed out family members of American victims of illegal immigrants – Jamiel Shaw, Susan Oliver, Jenna Oliver, and Jessica Davis.
Our deepest and heartfelt sympathies go out to these poor, poor people – we honestly can’t imagine what it would be like losing someone we love in this horrific way.
But it left a slightly bad taste in our mouths because it almost felt like Trump was using these tragedies to fuel his own policies – we all know how anti-immigration the American president is.
And we guess he’s not as worried about the Americans who were killed by white Americans as they don’t serve his political purpose?
Trump then paid tribute to a slain navy officer, his wife present in the audience.
“We are blessed to be joined tonight by Carryn Owens, the widow of a U.S. Navy Special Operator, Senior Chief William “Ryan” Owens. Ryan died as he lived: a warrior, and a hero – battling against terrorism and securing our Nation. I just spoke to General Mattis, who reconfirmed that, and I quote, ‘Ryan was a part of a highly successful raid that generated large amounts of vital intelligence that will lead to many more victories in the future against our enemies.’ Ryan’s legacy is etched into eternity.”
“The Bible teaches us, there is no greater act of love than to lay down one’s life for one’s friends. Ryan laid down his life for his friends, for his country, and for our freedom – we will never forget him.”
It was an emotional few minutes as Ryan and his widow in the audience were given a standing ovation.
Call us sceptics, but we just wonder whether the tragic stories are masking more sinister intentions.
