Praised for what was a relatively gracious acceptance speech — especially after a rancorous campaign — President-elect Donald Trump has shown signs he is learning the requirements of his new job on the fly. Trump’s first speech boldly claimed that he wanted to be president “for all Americans.” That notion — where it was taken at face value — sounded a hopeful note for those able to muster a belief in reconciliation. That’s clearly not everybody. Those who can’t muster such belief — despite President Obama’s hopeful tone — were out in massive protests after the election. Trump’s reaction to the protests, which came in two very different Twitter bursts, is perhaps instructive.
Trump’s first tweet about the protesters sounded like it came straight from candidate Trump. In it he blamed the “media” for “inciting” the protests and played the victim, saying it was “very unfair!”
Just had a very open and successful presidential election. Now professional protesters, incited by the media, are protesting. Very unfair!
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) November 11, 2016
Then Trump’s second tweet about the protests struck a decidedly different tone, less combative and more inclusive. What one might even call more presidential. In it Trump credited the protesters with “passion for our country” and said he loved seeing it displayed. For those looking for signs, however small, that Trump will govern in a different style than he campaigned in, the second tweet is a small piece evidence that he can alter his tone.
Love the fact that the small groups of protesters last night have passion for our great country. We will all come together and be proud!
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) November 11, 2016