I realize that Donald Trump’s unique diplomatic style involves heaping flattery on murderous dictatorial adversaries while dumping insults on long-time democratic allies.
And I’m not going to make a big deal about Trump returning the salute of a North Korean general. Like Obama’s bow to the Saudi king, it was both cringe-worthy and relatively insignificant.
But Geez– I can’t wait to see how Trump’s acolytes explain this:
BREAKING: President Trump on North Korean dictator Kim Jong Un: “He speaks and his people sit up in attention. I want my people to do the same.”
(My guess: “He was joking.”)
I wonder how long before Trump insists that his lackeys follow him around with notepads recording every word of wisdom from him.
Update: The Washington Post reports:
Later, when pressed by a CNN reporter about the comment, Trump claimed it had been a joke.
“I’m kidding,” he said. Admonishing the journalist, the president added, “You don’t understand sarcasm.”
I guess not. What’s clear, however, is that Trump has no heartfelt commitment to American-style democracy and looks longingly at authoritarian regimes.
