Trump Puts On a Show, Casting Democrats as the Villains

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by Katie Rogers

February 25, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

President Trump has taken to painting Democrats as villains in an effort to divert attention from economic struggles and midterms concerns. With the economy under scrutiny and elections looming, Trump is doubling down on his strategy to cast Democrats as unpatriotic and unstable. This approach aims to shift focus away from his administration's challenges by framing opponents as the real threat to American values. The tactic reflects a broader political playbook where attacking opponents' character becomes central to rallying support. By labeling Democrats as "crazy" and "unpatriotic," Trump seeks to polarize the electorate, reinforcing divisions that benefit his base while dismissing critics as out of touch with mainstream America. This rhetoric has been a recurring theme in his campaigns, designed to energize supporters and marginalize adversaries. This strategy matters because it influences voter perceptions and shapes the political narrative heading into the midterms. By casting Democrats as villains, Trump aims to consolidate support among his base while dismissing their policy ideas as radical or disloyal. Understanding how this rhetoric plays out is crucial for anyone following U.S. politics, as it highlights the power of framing in shaping public opinion and election outcomes.

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Originally published on NYT Homepage on 2/25/2026