Donald Trump, the former President of the United States, has recently admitted to occasional regrets over his social media posts, especially when he shares content from others without fully comprehending its context. The statement was made during an interview on Lex Fridman’s podcast that aired on September 3, 2024. Trump’s activity on Truth Social, a social media platform he helped to establish in 2021, was among the discussed topics.
Fridman queried Trump on if he ever finds himself reconsidering his social media posts. In response, Trump confirmed that he does have occasional regrets. However, he was quick to specify that these instances of regret are few and far between, suggesting he firmly stands by the majority of his posts.
Going deeper into his social media regrets, Trump admitted that they mostly occur when he reposts content from others. Sometimes, he said, these individuals are associated with groups he would not want to endorse. He added that he finds posting his original thoughts less problematic.
This admission was made in the wake of the recent uproar regarding a re-post by Trump on Truth Social. The controversial post, which included an offensive sexual reference to Vice President Kamala Harris, has been the subject of severe criticism and accusations of sexism. The contentious re-post depicted a picture of Harris and Hillary Clinton with a crude caption, which was seen as a taunt at Harris’s past relationship with former Mayor Willie Brown of San Francisco, California, and President Bill Clinton’s affair with Monica Lewinsky.
The post has been denounced broadly for its distasteful and sexist content. Anderson Cooper, a CNN anchor, remarked on the severity of these posts, pointing out that they represent a significant shift in Trump’s campaign strategy. Cooper noted that the posts were targeting two women who are among the most influential and successful figures in American politics.
Despite the backlash, Trump’s supporters continue to defend his social media conduct. JD Vance, the Republican vice presidential candidate, described Trump as a politician who breaks traditional norms and appreciates humor and light-hearted moments in his campaign. Vance’s statements suggest that Trump’s supporters see his controversial posts as a reflection of his unconventional and entertaining approach to politics, rather than inappropriate behavior.
Trump appears to have a positive view of Truth Social, referring to it as his “typewriter” and stating that it has turned out quite well for him. He even conceded that he sometimes posts from his bed, which underlines the casual nature of his social media use.
Several strategists within the Republican party have expressed their discontent with Trump’s social media strategy. Jason Roe, a Republican strategist, argued that Trump’s team had opportunities to address substantial issues relevant to undecided voters through Harris’s campaign and policy positions. Roe, however, expressed disappointment that Trump has chosen to engage in what he considers trivial and unproductive content instead.
The effect of Trump’s social media activity on his political future remains uncertain. Recent polls indicate that Harris is improving her standing and extending her lead over her opponent among women voters. Notably, a Reuters/Ipsos poll showed Harris with a four-point nationwide advantage, while a Fox News survey revealed increased support for her in four key southern Sunbelt states.
