Trump is both a propaganda manipulator and victim, unlike traditional authoritarians
Source: Jonathan Chait. "Big Brother Is ReTruthing You - The Atlantic." May 12, 2026. www.theatlantic.com
The Gist
Unlike classic dictators who create and control propaganda, Trump is addicted to consuming conspiracy theories made by his followers on social media. He then tries to turn these fan-made fantasies into real government policy, making him as much a victim of propaganda as he is someone who spreads it.
Conclusion
Donald Trump differs from traditional authoritarian leaders because he is simultaneously a victim and consumer of propaganda, not just its originator
Premises
- Traditional authoritarian leaders like Big Brother are primarily originators and controllers of propaganda
- Trump exhibits many typical authoritarian behaviors including monument obsession and weaponizing government agencies
- Trump's recent Truth Social posting spree shows him reposting conspiracy theories created by others rather than originating them himself
- Trump outsources the creation of specific accusations against his enemies to random social media followers
- Trump consumes fan fiction about his political rivals and then tries to turn these fantasies into actual policy
- Trump uses social media like a depressed teenager seeking validation rather than as a strategic propaganda tool
- Trump appears lonely and compulsively scrolls social media, making him more of an 'influencee' than influencer
Assumptions
- There is a standard model of how authoritarian leaders use propaganda
- Trump's social media behavior reflects his genuine psychological state rather than calculated strategy
- The distinction between propaganda originator and consumer is meaningful for understanding authoritarianism
- Trump's reposting behavior indicates dependence on others' content rather than strategic amplification