Why Trump Didn't Give a Graduation Address in 2020

The question of why President Donald Trump did not give a graduation address to the 2020 graduates has puzzled many. Was it simply a matter of indifference, or was there a more significant reason behind this decision?

Trump’s Political Approach and Media Usage

Trump’s approach to media is well-documented, with a tendency to command airwaves whenever he desires, often resulting in lengthy, speech-filled segments that can sometimes veer off into his own narrative rather than addressing the issues or sentiments of his audience. This style would not be well-received at a graduation ceremony, where the goal is to inspire and motivate.

On a personal note, it's important to recognize that Trump does listen to his advisors, specifically Jared Kushner and Ivanka Trump. However, the administration's approach to communication is often characterized by a high reliance on confrontation and rhetoric that may not resonate during such formal events. The word “NO” can be seen as a recurring theme, reflecting a reluctance to bend to others' recommendations.

Why Trump Was Not Invited

There were several reasons why President Trump was not invited to give a graduation address:

1. Presidential Priorities and Media Consumption Patterns

The media landscape, often referred to as the “MSM,” or mainstream media, had largely been associated with the Obama administration. Given the current political landscape, it is plausible that invitations for such events are managed by the current administration's team, which may have different criteria and priorities. President Trump's political agenda often focuses on maximizing media attention and control over the narrative, rather than following a more traditional script for such formal addresses.

2. Motivational and Relevant Content

Most graduation speeches are designed to be motivational and uplifting. Trump’s speeches, when they do occur, often emphasize his personal achievements and the challenges he faced, rather than providing motivational content that would inspire graduates. For example, when he addressed the Boy Scouts, he turned the event into more of a self-promotional platform. Thus, it is understandable that the organizers sought a speaker who could address current issues and future challenges in a more meaningful way.

3. Appropriate Communication Skills

Since English is typically a required subject in graduation ceremonies, the organizers might have been looking for a speaker who could deliver a cohesive and comprehensive message, rather than one who might use fragmented or incomprehensible language. Trump’s tendency to speak in more unstructured, at times incoherent, sentences may not have been the best fit for a formal graduation speech.

The Broader Context

It is also worth considering that the demographics and values of the 2020 graduates might not align with those who typically support Trump. The term “trumpistas” is often used to describe strong supporters, and it is likely that a significant portion of the graduates are not in this category. Trump, in his approach, tends to focus on groups that align with his political base, such as the left side of the political spectrum and Grammar School dropouts. While he did give motivational speeches to graduates of Trump University, these events catered to a different audience and context compared to general public graduations.

In conclusion, the decision not to invite President Trump to give a graduation address in 2020 was likely a combination of strategic choices, personal communication preferences, and a mismatch between his style and the expectations of a graduation ceremony. While Trump’s media presence remains prominent, his approach to formal speeches may not always align with the goals of such celebratory occasions.