According to a report by The Daily Beast on Monday, July 8, 2024, former President Donald Trump took to Truth Social on Sunday night, seemingly mocking President Joe Biden’s outreach to the Islamic community.
Trump’s post featured a screenshot of Biden’s message on X (formerly Twitter), which read: “Jill and I wish a Happy Islamic New Year to all families who celebrate. May the arrival of the 1446 Hijri New Year bring you love, peace, and prosperity.”
Many of Trump’s devout followers quickly grasped the implication, responding with disdain for Muslims. One follower commented that Biden’s account must be run by “Hamas Interns,” reflecting severe misunderstanding and hostility towards Muslims. Other supporters praised Trump, reinforcing his stance against the Islamic community.
However, not all responses were negative. Some Trump supporters expressed confusion over his intent, questioning what was wrong with Biden acknowledging the Islamic New Year. One Muslim woman and Trump supporter wrote, “As a Muslim and a Trump supporter, there shouldn’t be any issue wishing us well.” This sentiment highlights a portion of Trump’s base that does not agree with his Islamophobic undertones.
Others criticized Trump, labeling him Islamophobic and bringing up his past sexual abuse lawsuits, while voicing solidarity with Palestinian women and children affected by the conflict in Gaza.
Trump has a long history of pushing Islamophobic views. His administration’s controversial “Muslim ban” sought to block refugees and travelers from several predominantly Muslim countries from entering the U.S. This executive order faced multiple legal challenges and was seen by many as a direct attack on the Muslim community. Additionally, Trump frequently used social media to spread anti-Muslim propaganda, further fueling divisions and prejudices.
The timing of Trump’s post is significant amid the U.S.’s divided stance on the Hamas-Israeli conflict in Gaza. Trump’s appeal to his ultra-conservative fan base is evident as he seeks to capitalize on the current political climate.
In his 2024 presidential campaign, Trump has reiterated his hardline stance on Muslims, pledging to reinstate his Muslim ban if re-elected. His post on Truth Social can be seen as an attempt to reaffirm his position and rally his supporters. Meanwhile, Trump’s lead over Biden in recent polls has sparked renewed calls for the president to resign from office. Despite not holding many in-person rallies since the tumultuous first debate, Trump has been active on Truth Social, posting numerous conspiracies and controversial statements to his followers. His strategy appears to be maintaining a strong online presence to influence public opinion and keep his base energized.
The reactions to Trump’s post reflect the broader divisions within American society. On one hand, a segment of the population echoes Trump’s Islamophobic rhetoric and views Muslims with suspicion and hostility. On the other hand, there are those who recognize the importance of religious tolerance and the value of acknowledging diverse cultural celebrations.
Biden’s message on X was a simple gesture of goodwill, intended to acknowledge and celebrate the Islamic New Year. Such messages are part of the president’s broader effort to promote inclusivity and unity. However, in the current polarized political climate, even benign statements can become contentious.
Trump’s post, though lacking in direct commentary, serves as a dog whistle to his supporters, signaling his continued opposition to Muslim communities. This approach is consistent with his past actions and statements, which have often sought to divide rather than unite.
As the 2024 presidential race heats up, Trump’s use of social media to convey his positions and rally his base will likely continue to be a significant factor. His ability to influence public discourse through platforms like Truth Social underscores the evolving nature of political communication in the digital age.
