Former US president Donald Trump made headlines during a rally in New Jersey where he recited a 1963 soul song called “The Snake” in its entirety. He used the song to draw parallels with his anti-migrant stance, claiming that allowing people into the country would only lead to trouble. Trump’s use of the song has drawn objections from the family of the original songwriter, Oscar Brown. His rhetoric around the country’s migrant crisis has become increasingly violent as he gears up for the upcoming presidential election.
Despite his passionate recitation of “The Snake,” Trump’s audience in New Jersey seemed subdued in their reaction, with some looking on quizzically and others appearing disinterested. Trump awkwardly asked if they enjoyed it, cautioning them that they should actually be scared. His use of fear tactics and violent language has drawn criticism in the past, with opponents accusing him of using language similar to that of Hitler and making derogatory remarks about illegal migrants during his previous presidential campaign in 2016.
During the rally, Trump went on to make a rambling reference to the fictional cannibal character Hannibal Lecter from the 1991 film “Silence of the Lambs,” calling him a “wonderful man” who often had a friend for dinner. This strange segue into cannibalism before returning to the topic of migration left many puzzled and drew attention on social media. Trump’s tendency to veer off into tangents and make controversial statements has become a trademark of his public appearances, appealing to his base but also sparking criticism from his opponents.
Trump’s use of “The Snake” and his references to cannibalism highlight his controversial and polarizing approach to issues such as immigration. By drawing on fear and using inflammatory rhetoric, he seeks to rally his supporters and appeal to their anxieties about immigration and national security. However, his tactics have also drawn condemnation from critics who accuse him of spreading hate and promoting divisive ideologies. As the presidential election approaches, Trump’s rhetoric is likely to become even more intense and discordant as he seeks to secure another term in office.
