Failure to communicate: Trump’s messaging isn’t working

The Hill
by Keith Naughton, opinion contributor
February 19, 2026
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Failure to communicate: Trump’s messaging isn’t working
The article discusses how former President Donald Trump's communication strategy has repeatedly fallen short, contributing to his political challenges. Critics argue that Trump often relies on vague or contradictory messages, failing to clearly articulate his policies or respond effectively to crises. This lack of a coherent messaging framework has led to confusion among supporters and alienated key voter groups, ultimately undermining his ability to govern and achieve political goals. The piece highlights specific instances where Trump's communication style backfired. For example, during the COVID-19 pandemic, his inconsistent messages about mask-wearing and reopening the economy created public distrust and complicated efforts to manage the crisis. Similarly, his approach to economic policies often lacked clarity, making it difficult for voters to understand or support his initiatives. These missteps have been noted by political analysts, who
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Originally published on The Hill on 2/19/2026