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Words carry immense weight, and nowhere is this more evident than in politics. Words can shape public opinion, inspire action, and, if used carelessly, sow chaos. As the election season progresses, it is clear that our political language has become increasingly heated and reckless. It is time to pause and consider its importance.
Consider the accusatory language surrounding former President Trump, such as “threat to democracy” and “existential threat.” These words are not just political criticism; they turn opponents into adversaries, creating an environment in which conflict and hostility can flourish. Following the recent assassination attempt on Trump, many media outlets rushed to pin the blame on Trump’s own words and highlighted his tendency to simplify complex issues into simple narratives.
And we’re watching it happen in real time. Not even 72 hours into the news cycle, leaders are failing to pause to ease tensions; instead, they’re intensifying them. Just a day after the assassination attempt, former Democratic presidential candidate Hillary Clinton called Trump “a danger to the country and the world” on MSNBC, while Elon Musk suggested in a since-deleted message that “nobody’s even trying to assassinate” President Joe Biden or Vice President Kamala Harris.
David Marcus: The left has normalized assassination attempts
Some argue that Trump’s inflammatory rhetoric has exacerbated instability, while others argue that words directed at Trump have fueled tensions. Let’s set aside the debate of whether Trump or Harris’ words are more egregious. With two assassination attempts in just over two months, the more pressing question is why our words seem to be leading to such alarming outcomes. Whatever your position, it is crucial to recognize how our words can create a chain reaction of attacks.
This pattern is not new. Recent history is replete with examples of inflammatory language inciting violence. During the 2016 election, portrayals of immigrants as “invaders” and “criminals” led to a spike in hate crimes. “Lock her up” chants aimed at Hillary Clinton stoked hostility toward her supporters and intensified political divisions. And let’s not forget that Trump’s rhetoric is believed by many to have led to January 6th. More recently, words like “anarchist” and “thug” have been used to describe some racial justice protesters, resulting in backlash and violence against those communities.
In today’s tense atmosphere, it’s not surprising that many of Trump’s supporters feel they must band together to defend him. The more aggressive the rhetoric of his critics, the more staunchly his supporters seem to resist. Ironically, opponents who try to challenge Trump’s claims often end up further divisive and strengthening his case.
Effective criticism need not rely on hyperbole or hostility. For example, Kamala Harris’ declaration that Trump is “a small guy with big consequences” is impactful yet measured. Such thoughtful criticism encourages reflection, not retaliation.
Why are we drawn to emotive language when a more rational approach can achieve similar, or even better, results?
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“In reality, the current political dialogue often resembles an angry clamor rather than a forum for constructive debate. There is no denying that words can provoke action, but they also have the power to foster understanding and strengthen connections. If we want to transcend entrenched positions, we must adopt a language that fosters dialogue, not division.”
What do we have to do to realize that our words matter? That we are setting a precedent for the next generation? My daughter just started kindergarten. When she gets called into the principal’s office for a fight at school, the explanation that “someone else said it” will no longer be acceptable to me. Yet pundit after pundit and leader insist that it’s all Trump’s fault, and that we must keep using the words as long as he’s in power.
We face a crucial choice: either continue to stoke the flames of anger and misunderstanding, or adopt a more considered approach to dialogue. It is essential that we acknowledge the potential impact of our words and engage in dialogue that prioritises understanding over conflict. Failure to do so will not only undermine the quality of our political dialogue, but the very foundations of our democracy.
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Ultimately, we must ask a fundamental question: Are we building walls that divide us, or can we foster true engagement in meaningful debate? The responsibility falls on each and every one of us to elevate the language of this election and transform it from a source of incitement into an opportunity for true understanding.
This change is not simply overdue, it is crucial to the health of our democratic process.
To read more articles by Lee Hartley Carter click here
