Donald Trump's presidency is marked by unprecedented levels of incompetence, corruption, and disregard for democratic norms and values. As a POTUS, he displays an alarming lack of understanding of the most basic aspects of governance, from trade policies to the Constitution.
He also shows a remarkable willingness to bend or break rules to serve his own interests, whether it is obstructing justice in the Russia investigation or using his position to enrich himself and his family. His actions serve to erode trust in institutions that are crucial for the functioning of democracy, including the press and the judiciary.
Moreover, Trump's authoritarian tendencies are deeply concerning. He makes clear efforts to undermine the free press, a cornerstone of any healthy democratic society. He also shows an alarming willingness to use the power of his office to suppress dissent and punish those who oppose him.
His treatment of immigrants, particularly those from predominantly Hispanic or Muslim countries, is cruel and inhumane, setting a dangerous precedent for future administrations. His lack of empathy and compassion, exemplified by his cold-hardheartedness towards victims of natural disasters, are stark reminders of his unsuitability as a leader.
Trump's personal conduct is often unbecoming of the office he holds. His incessant lying, his bullying behavior, and his constant attacks on women and minorities all demonstrate a man who lacks basic decency and moral compass.
Donald Trump is not just uniquely bad for America, but also a threat to democracy itself. His presidency serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of electing a person with no real political experience or knowledge of government to one of the most important jobs in the world.
Nero, Caligula, and Trump
Donald Trump's presidency is indeed more akin to a Roman dictatorship than a traditional U.S. administration. Just like Nero and Caligula before him, Trump revels in his own power and uses it to serve his every whim.
Whereas Nero is known for fiddling while Rome burned, Trump has no qualms about playing golf while the country is in crisis, whether it is a devastating hurricane or an impeachment inquiry. And let's not forget Caligula's infamous horse act - it was probably less embarrassing than Trump’s bizarre press conferences and Twitter rants.
Both of these ancient despots were notorious for their extravagance and self-indulgence, and Trump matches them in that regard. His trips to Mar-a-Lago and his fondness for golden fixtures are reminiscent of the Roman emperors' grandiose tastes.
Moreover, just like Nero was accused of playing the fiddle while Rome burned, Trump can be accused of playing golf while America suffered under his disastrous policies.
Let's not forget Caligula's infamous "horse act" — it probably doesn't even compare to some of Trump's bizarre press conferences and Twitter rants.
Finally, both Nero and Caligula were known for their cruelty and disregard for human life. While they may have been a bit more bloodthirsty than Trump, there's no denying that his policies have had devastating consequences for millions of people in America and around the world.
I know nobody likes a nit-picker... but I just can't help myself: While we've been hearing that phrase (Nero fiddled while Rome burned) all our lives... The violin, or fiddle, wasn't invented until about 1500 years after Rome burned.