- Question
Has Trump transformed what it means to be Presidential?
What makes a good President? Is it pragmatism and vision, or, something else entirely? Trump presents himself as a political outsider: his disregard for political correctness is what attracted many of his supporters. Yet, his critics see his unruly behaviour as a weakness; that it is unbecoming for a President. Has Trump changed what it means to be Presidential? The Merriam-Webster defines “presidential” as: “of, relating to, or befitting a president or a president’s authority”. But, is that what Trump means, and his supporters, refer to?
Trump has changed what acting presidential means
Trump is an unconventional President. Yet, his supporters consider this one of his strengths. Trump has changed the meaning and importance of acting presidential.
Trump has not changed what acting presidential means
This position holds that Donald Trump did not change what it means to be presidential. It argues that the office's core standards endure regardless of his conduct — that being presidential still means being trustworthy — so his failure to act the part does not redefine the expectation.
The meaning of presidential has been evolving for decades
The way we communicate has changed drastically in recent years. Leaders now promote their messages through more far-reaching methods. Trump is the latest in a long list of presidents who are seeing the benefits of social media.