As the hush money trial of former President Donald Trump unfolds, revelations about his unconventional approach to technology have emerged, shedding light on his idiosyncratic methods of communication and information consumption. From dictating tweets to his aversion to computers, Trump’s technological quirks offer a glimpse into his unique leadership style and mindset.
Trump’s Technological Preferences: Former aide Madeline Westerhout’s testimony during the trial has provided insights into Trump’s preferences regarding technology. Rather than typing himself, Trump relied on Westerhout to take notes and even dictate tweets, showcasing his hands-on approach to communication. Additionally, his penchant for capitalizing certain words and frequent use of exclamation points underscored his distinctive style.
Lack of Computer Literacy: Perhaps most striking is Trump’s apparent aversion to computers and email, as revealed by Westerhout. In an era where digital communication is ubiquitous, Trump’s refusal to embrace modern technology highlights his disconnect from contemporary norms. This revelation adds another layer to the portrait of Trump as a leader out of step with the digital age.
Emotional Testimony and Personal Dynamics: Westerhout’s emotional testimony, coupled with her fond recollections of Trump as a “really good boss,” provides a nuanced perspective on their working relationship. Despite her dismissal following a controversial statement, Westerhout’s loyalty to Trump underscores the complex dynamics within his inner circle and the enduring impact of personal connections on political affairs.
Alternative Sources of Information: The trial testimony also revealed Trump’s reliance on alternative sources of information, such as uplifting news articles and online posts curated by former aide Natalie Harp. This practice reflects Trump’s preference for curated content that aligns with his worldview, highlighting his distrust of mainstream media and traditional channels of information.
Technological Illiteracy and Policy Pronouncements: Trump’s technological illiteracy has been a recurring theme throughout his presidency, manifesting in puzzling policy pronouncements and erratic behavior on social media. His promotion of non-existent technologies, such as “6G,” underscores his lack of understanding of technological advancements, further reinforcing perceptions of him as out of touch with reality.
Preference for Analog Media: Trump’s preference for analog media, such as printed newspapers, further reinforces his nostalgic outlook and resistance to embracing digital platforms. His ritualistic consumption of newspapers on Air Force One exemplifies his attachment to traditional modes of information consumption, despite the prevalence of digital alternatives.
Conclusion: The revelations from Trump’s hush money trial offer a revealing glimpse into his unconventional approach to technology and communication. From dictating tweets to shunning computers, Trump’s idiosyncratic behavior underscores his unique leadership style and worldview. As the trial unfolds, these insights provide valuable context for understanding Trump’s presidency and its impact on American politics.
