In a recent interview with MSNBC’s Jen Psaki, former Trump White House staffer Sarah Matthews raised concerns about Donald Trump‘s current state, asserting that he has “gotten more unhinged in his rhetoric.” Matthews, who resigned as Trump’s deputy press secretary on the day of the 2021 U.S. Capitol riot, pointed out that while Trump’s first four years were marked by controversies, the type of rhetoric he is using today is particularly troubling.
The alarm in Matthews’ voice is palpable as she draws attention to Trump’s language, likening it to something “almost Hitler-esque,” especially when addressing topics like immigration and making statements such as “Poisoning the blood of our country.” She expresses worry about Trump’s attempt to tap into people’s darkest instincts, fueling anger and agitation. Matthews acknowledges that Trump has a history of such behavior, but the current rhetoric raises additional concerns for her.
During her testimony before the House panel investigating the January 6, 2021, insurrection, Matthews highlighted the potential threat Trump poses to democracy, emphasizing that it may sound “pretty alarmist” but urging voters to pay attention to Trump’s words and actions. She emphasizes Trump’s statements about being a dictator on day one and his efforts to overturn the 2020 election results as significant red flags.
When Psaki questions Matthews about supporting President Joe Biden in a hypothetical 2024 election rerun against Trump, Matthews responds with a commitment to prioritizing democracy. Despite potential policy disagreements with Biden, she states, “I would put policy aside and cast my vote for him for democracy.” Matthews firmly believes that Trump has demonstrated a lack of commitment to upholding the Constitution, solidifying her stance in favor of Biden.
Interestingly, Matthews reveals that she supported Trump’s Republican primary rival Nikki Haley, citing Haley’s 40% vote in South Carolina as evidence that some Republicans are ready to move on from Trump. This nuance in Matthews’ perspective showcases a willingness to consider alternative candidates within the Republican Party.
The gravity of Matthews’ warnings is underscored by her firsthand experience within the Trump administration. She emphasizes the importance of voters being vigilant and critically assessing Trump’s rhetoric and actions, suggesting that the potential consequences for democracy are too significant to ignore.
In conclusion, Matthews’ recent comments serve as a stark warning about the perceived deterioration in Donald Trump’s rhetoric and its potential impact on democratic principles. As the political landscape evolves, her insights, rooted in personal experience, provide a unique perspective on the ongoing dynamics within the Republican Party.
