The Trump Show: How the President Became the Main Character in American Politics
Donald Trump has once again proven why he is often referred to as the ultimate showman in modern politics. This year, he became the first sitting U.S. president to attend a Super Bowl, turning the NFL’s most-watched event into an episode of “The Trump Show.” Unlike President Joe Biden, who declined a Super Bowl pregame interview last year, Trump not only accepted the opportunity but also attended the game in person. By doing so, he transformed the spectacle into a platform to reinforce his presence in American culture and politics. The 24/7 nature of Trump’s presidency, marked by constant news conferences, controversial announcements, and relentless social media activity, has made him inescapable. Whether you are a die-hard supporter or a vocal critic, it’s impossible to ignore Trump.
This level of ubiquity is not an accident. According to White House aides, Trump’s non-stop visibility is a strategic move to captivate Republican voters and overwhelm Democratic opponents. At her first press briefing, White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt highlighted a Politico headline: “Trump is everywhere again,” framing it as evidence of his ability to dominate the narrative. For Trump, being omnipresent is not just about politics—it’s also about feeding his ego. MSNBC anchor Chris Hayes, in his book “The Sirens’ Call,” argues that Trump’s need for attention is insatiable. “He’ll take condemnation, rebuke, disgust, as long as you’re thinking about him,” Hayes writes.
The Psychology of Trump’s Ubiquity: A Puzzle of Power and Ego
Trump’s relentless pursuit of attention stems from a deep-seated psychological need to be the center of the universe. History professor Ruth Ben-Ghiat, author of “Strongmen: Mussolini to the Present,” explains that Trump has cultivated a “personality cult” where he is seen as both a man of the people and a demigod. For such a figure, visibility is not optional—it’s essential. “The strongman must appear not just omnipotent but also omnipresent,” she said. Trump’s constant presence in the media is a deliberate effort to reinforce this image.
His strategy seems to be working. By flooding the public space with his words, actions, and image, Trump keeps himself at the forefront of national conversation. His detractors often accuse him of creating chaos, but for his fans, it’s a sign of strength and vitality. Trump’s ability to stamina-shame his opponents—particularly Biden—is a recurring theme. At the National Prayer Breakfast, he joked about how busy he’s been, prompting laughter from the audience. The subtext was clear: he’s the one with the energy, the drive, and the will to keep America talking.
The Cultural Warfare: Trump’s Playbook for Dominance
Trump’s approach to politics is less about policy and more about performance. Many of his executive orders, public appearances, and even his Truth Social posts are designed to send cultural signals rather than enact tangible change. Economist Tyler Cowen, in an essay on Trump’s strategy, argues that the president is “investing in changing the culture.” According to Cowen, Trump’s playbook is simple: flood the zone with policies, announcements, and controversies that shift cultural debates in his favor. The details don’t matter as much as the headlines.
For Trump’s base, this approach is a winning strategy. Every tweetstorm, every fiery speech, and every photo op feels like a victory. Conservative radio host Clay Travis, founder of OutKick, says that Trump’s attendance at the Super Bowl reflects a “major vibe shift” in his favor. He believes that a majority of NFL players, owners, and executives now support Trump—a stark contrast to 2017, when many athletes openly criticized him. Young men, in particular, have swung toward Trump in significant numbers, drawn to his unapologetic style and entertainment value.
The Super Bowl as a Symbol of American Culture—and Trump’s Ambitions
The Super Bowl is more than just a football game—it’s a spectacle that encapsulates American culture. From the high-stakes competition on the field to the multi-million-dollar commercials, the event is a celebration of consumerism, entertainment, and patriotism. For Trump, attending the Super Bowl is not just about watching a game; it’s about inserting himself into the heart of American identity. By being present, he reinforces his image as a leader who understands—and embodies—the spirit of the country.
For his supporters, Trump’s presence at the Super Bowl is a triumph. They expect him to be cheered by the crowd and for chants of “USA!” to erupt. For his critics, however, it’s another example of how Trump co-opts cultural events to advance his personal brand. Either way, Trump’s decision to attend the Super Bowl is a calculated move to stay in the spotlight—and to remind America that, in the world of Donald Trump, the show never ends.
