Why Do Trump Supporters Get Triggered Over Late Night Comedians Taking a Jab at Him or His Administration?

The world of late-night comedy can seem cruel to those on the receiving end, especially Donald Trump and his supporters. While some may argue that the triggers come more from the liberal side, the issue at hand is the reaction of Trump supporters when faced with jokes about their idol. This article aims to dissect why they get triggered and how it reflects their political beliefs and the media environment they engage with.

Triggering Moments vs. Jokes

Jokes aimed at Donald Trump can often feel one-sided due to the nature of his responses. While Trump supporters may argue that he is thick-skinned and quick to anger, it is important to understand why his supporters react as they do.

Respondents argue that getting triggered is more of a liberal phenomenon. However, the core issue lies in the idea that jokes at the expense of a leader can ignite a defensive response in those who believe their leader is being disrespected. The phrase “sticks and stones may break my bones, but words will never hurt me” implies certainty in one's opinion. If someone is unsure, they are more likely to try and defend themselves, even if it is just their feelings about a leader.

Compared to other contexts, such as the reaction to cartoonists depicting Muhammad, the triggers for Trump supporters can be seen as a form of respect and validation. Islam prohibits making fun of their prophet, and the same attitude is applied when Trump supporters see their leader being mocked. In religious doctrines, disrespecting a leader (or prophet) reduces the power of their influence. The same principle applies here, where the name of Trump as a leader gains power and influence when it is respected, and loses power when it is disrespected.

The Lack of Public Impact

It is often claimed that late-night shows barely impact public opinion or viewer engagement. Yet, these shows still have significant cultural and political influence. When these shows are not watched, it is because the writers, not the creators, are the ones responsible for the content. Jimmy Kimmel, for example, went off the air for several months due to a writers' strike, leaving the shows with less engaging content. By the time they resumed, no one seemed to miss them, indicating that their content was not highly valued by the general public.

In contrast, John Oliver, an Independent comedian with a more transparent approach, has received widespread criticism and backlash from Trump supporters for his parodies. However, his shows are popular and are watched and discussed within certain circles. The difference lies in the delivery and the perceived malice of the jokes. Other hosts like Stephen Colbert, Jimmy Fallon, and Eric Andre have taken a more direct and personal approach, which Trump supporters find offensive and disrespectful.

The Role of Conservative Media

The journey to support or criticize a political figure often begins with the media one consumes. Trump supporters are more likely to watch conservative news sources that reinforce their beliefs and opinions. In fact, news in America is highly polarized, with each side presenting a skewed view of the world. What one watches profoundly influences their perceptions of events and the individuals involved. For example, if someone watches Fox News all day, they are more likely to hate Jimmy Kimmel, as Kimmel provides a different perspective that contradicts Fox News.

Trump supporters see Jimmy Kimmel, and other late-night hosts, as enemies because they represent a negative image of Trump. In their minds, these comedians are trying to undermine their leader. The same goes for those who poked fun at Barack Obama, who was not spared mocking or criticism. And while some may claim that Biden does not receive the same treatment, the frustration is rooted in the same seed — the perception that personal attacks diminish the leader's power and influence.

Concluding Thoughts

The reaction of Trump supporters to late-night comedians is a microcosm of the broader political landscape. It reflects the power of media and the importance of defending one's leader, even when presented with humor or criticism. Understanding these reactions is crucial for both politicians and comedians as they navigate the complex relationship between entertainment and politics.