In a recent interview with Lex Fridman, former President Donald Trump admitted that he occasionally regrets his social media posts, particularly when he shares others’ content without fully grasping the context. The interview, which aired on Tuesday, September 3, 2024, also included discussions about Trump’s interactions on Truth Social, a platform he started in 2021.
When asked by Fridman if he ever regrets his posts on social media, Trump responded affirmatively but indicated that such instances are rare. He stressed that most of his posts reflect his beliefs.
Trump explained that his regrets primarily stem from reposting content created by others, as he sometimes inadvertently associates with groups he doesn’t endorse. He stated that sharing his original thoughts on the platform is less problematic for him.
Trump’s admission follows a controversy over a re-post on Truth Social, which contained a crude sexual reference to Vice President Kamala Harris and attracted widespread condemnation for sexism. The post featured a picture of Harris and Hillary Clinton with a crude caption. It was interpreted as a derogatory comment about Harris’ past relationship with former San Francisco, California Mayor Willie Brown, and a jab at President Bill Clinton’s affair with Monica Lewinsky.
The post drew severe criticism for its offensive content. CNN anchor Anderson Cooper expressed his concern about the escalating level of Trump’s campaign tactics, emphasizing that the posts targeted two highly influential women in American politics.
Despite these criticisms, Trump’s supporters continue to back his social media activities. Republican vice presidential candidate, JD Vance, described Trump as a politician who breaks traditional norms and brings humor and light-heartedness into his campaign.
Trump appears to have a favorable view of Truth Social, calling it his “typewriter” and stating that it has served him well. He even confessed to posting from bed occasionally, demonstrating the informal nature of his social media use.
Some Republican strategists, however, have expressed dissatisfaction with Trump’s approach to social media. Jason Roe, a Republican strategist, argued that Harris’s campaign and policy stances provide ample opportunities for substantive political discourse, but expressed disappointment that Trump often chooses to engage in less significant content.
The effect of Trump’s social media behavior on his political future is yet to be determined. Recent polls indicate that Harris is gaining ground among women voters. A Reuters/Ipsos poll showed Harris with a four-point lead nationwide, and a Fox News survey revealed increased support for her in four key southern Sunbelt states.
