"On many sides" ad-libbed Trump from a prepared statement after the Charlottesville attack this last saturday. Hatred and bigotry on "many sides"; which appears to be what he truly believes. Because you can't dictate personal ideology to what's really in your heart.
I've been a life-long rock-n-roll music fan. So I'll never forget when I was a young kid (I think I was 9 years old) & I listened to punk rock music for the first time. Afterwards, I began drawing the swastika symbol because I saw it somewhere (I'm guessing associated with some shitty right-wing punk rock band). As soon as my dad saw it, he calmly explained to me why it was wrong for me to draw that symbol. He went into specifics despite probably giving me nightmares for a few days. But I never drew that swastika again: one; because when you're a kid your father can do no wrong & you do what he tells you. But most importantly, because he showed me enough respect to explain the horrible tragedy associated with the symbol.
That moment from my childhood (which has probably been repeated in similar ways countless times around the world) came to mind as I watched the interview of Charlottesville killer James Field's mom. She said something along the lines of "I don't get involved in his political beliefs". Which to me seems like the wrong way to approach these issues. It's fine to accept that your children's political views might be different than your own, but extremism should be cautioned against in order to prevent tragedies.
But then again; who am I to judge the poor woman? His murderer of a racist son has grown up in a toxic environment of hatred for the opposite political side. I've read the right-wing websites & youtube channels blaming & mocking "antifas" & "SJW's" for everything. & of course the left hates & mocks the altright & nazis as well. But now with the "alt-right" ascendant & more involved in street activism: I'm afraid clashes will continue to occur. & the person holding the highest office in the land doesn't appear to have the moral leadership to calm down either side.
The most damaging explanation of why Trump didn't condemn nazis on late Saturday or on Sunday, could be as simple as because Trump was never taught by his parents about the evils of nazism. Thus he's not taking seriously the dangers of fascism in his effort not to alienate the white nationalists who make up a percentage of his base.
The least damaging explanation could be because Trump was waiting to learn more about the case to see who was the perpetrator. & once the Donald did learn more about the case, he didn't want to admit his mistake & somehow thought the whole thing would just blow over. I hope Trump learned his lesson when it comes to nazis & white supremacists; this country will not tolerate their hatred. & if God forbid more violence occurs, swift condemnation & action from the presidency will be expected.
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