On Memorial Day, President Donald Trump utilized his Truth Social platform to convey a message that was both stark and politically charged. The post, sent out early in the morning, was notably filled with criticisms directed at his political opponents and perceived adversaries. Referring to them as “scum,” he also labeled the federal judiciary as “USA hating” and “monsters,” while painting his predecessor, former President Joe Biden, as “incompetent.” This messaging, particularly on a day meant to honor the sacrifices of military personnel, has raised eyebrows regarding the appropriateness of intertwining political divisiveness with a solemn occasion.
In the post, Trump wished “Happy Memorial Day to all, including the scum that spent the last four years trying to destroy our country.” The insinuation was that this group was responsible for a surge in illegal immigration under the Biden administration. Specifically, he claimed that approximately 21 million illegal entries occurred during Biden’s term, a statement that contradicts the verifiable data from U.S. Customs and Border Protection, reported previously by news outlets, including CNN. Such claims underscore a pattern of exaggerations often associated with Trump’s rhetoric.
Further amplifying his narrative, Trump placed blame on what he termed “an incompetent president” for the influx of migrants, as well as alleging that the judicial system is complicit in safeguarding criminals. He accused certain judges of actively obstructing his deportation agenda by keeping “murderers, drug dealers, rapists, gang members, and released prisoners” from being expelled from the country. Trump’s accusations against the judiciary painted an alarming picture of a system that he believes is negligent in protecting American citizens, which he deems “sick” and “dangerous.”
Memorial Day in the United States serves as a grave reminder of those who have lost their lives while serving in the armed forces. Given the day’s somber significance, there exists an unspoken consensus that wishing someone a “Happy Memorial Day” can come off as insensitive. It is a time meant for reflection rather than celebration. Nevertheless, Trump was scheduled later that day to participate in a traditional observance at Arlington National Cemetery. His plan included laying a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, followed by remarks delivered from the amphitheater within the historic site.
During his first presidential term, Trump mainly adhered to prepared remarks when participating in Memorial Day events, honoring the tradition established by his predecessors. While he was present at Arlington for his first three years in office, in 2020 the event was shifted to Fort McHenry due to the COVID-19 pandemic, highlighting the ongoing adaptations that have taken place during unprecedented times.
On a day marked by solemnity, Trump’s earlier statements have led to criticism concerning his penchant for blending political messages with traditionally apolitical settings. For instance, just two days prior to Memorial Day, he delivered a commencement address at the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, infusing political themes into what is usually an apolitical celebration of military graduates. He took a victory lap regarding the success of his electoral victory, alongside airing grievances related to ongoing investigations surrounding his actions.
In particular, Trump’s address featured a curious mix of traditional wisdom handed down to graduates and partisan rhetoric, where he taking swipes at previous administrations for engaging in “wars of choice.” With a striking proclamation that the role of the military was not to “host drag shows” or “spread democracy to everybody around the world at the point of a gun,” he asserted a vision for a military focused solely on dominance against any threat to the nation.
Previously, Trump has faced backlash for blending politics with ceremonial events, an example being his 2018 Memorial Day message on social media, suggesting that the sacrifices of the fallen soldiers would be appreciated for the successes of his administration. More recently, in August 2024, the U.S. Army reprimanded him for filming a political video at Arlington Cemetery. This event further accentuated the boundaries that exist between honoring military service and engaging in political activities on sacred grounds.
In summary, President Trump’s approach to Memorial Day this year stands as a reflection of his broader communication strategy, one that is divisive and confrontational, even during moments that are meant for collective remembrance and respect. This juxtaposition of a festive greeting during a day of solemnity has sparked conversation on the appropriateness of such political maneuvers, raising questions on presidential decorum and the expectations of leadership in times of national mourning.
