During Donald Trump’s first term, standing up against him was both fashionable and profitable. This made him seem more like a punchline than a president. Trump’s desire to be a beloved celebrity often clashed with the criticism he faced. However, the landscape has shifted. Now, prominent public figures and media personalities face repercussions for speaking out in ways that were previously unimaginable.
Journalist Don Lemon, for example, encountered troubles when he spent a night in jail. Another instance is the abrupt end of ‘The Late Show With Stephen Colbert,’ where many talented comedians worked. Even ’60 Minutes,’ a highlight of television journalism, faced turmoil due to alleged political interference. Such events characterize what a less-free America looks like today.
Trump experienced a rough patch recently. His green Reflecting Pool attracted ridicule, and he suffered an embarrassing defeat in a conflict he initiated. Yet, the silence from some of the country’s most vocal celebrities reveals his continued influence. These celebrities once freely criticized Trump but now remain quieter.
A year ago, singer Selena Gomez, granddaughter of undocumented immigrants, shared a tearful Instagram story. She condemned the administration’s immigration policies, stating, “all my people are getting attacked.” However, intense online backlash, including from Piers Morgan and anonymous right-wing accounts, forced her to delete the post. Political commentaries at major Hollywood awards shows have dwindled, and even ‘Saturday Night Live’ appears less critical of Trump.
Jennifer Lawrence, an actress known for her outspoken views, expressed a shift in attitude. She told The Times that celebrities do not influence voters. She questioned the purpose of sharing opinions that might exacerbate national divisions. Her sentiment mirrors that of many peers who have adopted a similar stance. Curiously, outspoken far-right commentator Tucker Carlson has lately been more vocal against Trump than the previous #Resistance crowd.
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