President Donald Trump has a way of making a splash. Since he initially announced his intention to run in the presidential election, he has found a way to cause a ruckus. From grandiose announcements of intense change to accusations at other politicians and business leaders, the man does not like to be told he's wrong. So naturally, as any mature adult would, he took to Twitter.
While Trump has flirted with the idea of stepping away from the majestic medium, like when he disclosed to CBS that he was planning on being "very restrained" on Twitter, he never seems to actually leave.
While many celebrities, politicians, and world leaders have social media accounts, Donald Trump has abused the privilege through the attitude he brings to his tweeting habits. Instead of acting like the respectable, mature leader that Americans deserve, President Trump sounds more like an angsty 13-year-old who is throwing a temper tantrum. Specifically, he has taken it upon himself to wage war against media sources, anyone who slightly relates to a Democratic stance, opposing candidates, Republicans who do not agree with him, and President Obama's past decisions. Some may argue that President Trump should humbly start making the changes he sees fit without attacking anyone in the process. *crickets*
Instead, the President makes it too easy to ridicule what he says. What he may not understand is how his constant defense of his actions colors him as a suspicious, insecure leader, and a biased source to boot. While social media gives leaders the opportunity to present concise, official statements to the public, Trump's mixed messages offer no real, official element.
President Trump describes his social media use as "a way of fighting back," framing his Twitter participation to be war-like. Republican Representative Justin Amash describes Trump's behavior on Twitter as what "a child does when he wants to get his way." This is concerning in a world leader, who may very likely fly off the handle one day and offend individuals that the U.S. could benefit from a partnership with.
Leaders' words are to set the tone for those under their authority. Their words are supposed to mean something, holding importance and power. President Trump does nothing but further aggravate and divide the American people.
President Trump has no limits as to what he will and will not discuss on Twitter. Five months after the election, he is still out to get his previous opponent, Hillary Clinton. A graceful winner whom we can take pride in? I don't know who you're following, but it isn't this guy.
While his outrageous social media habits may have gained some attention during election season, it is now time for President Trump to sit down, shut up, and do the job he signed up for. The United States has found itself struggling with honest, respectable leaders from both parties for some time. Thanks to President Trump's Twitter tirades, it looks like American citizens are going to be waiting a bit longer.