Trump Fails to Incite Navy Against Obama, Faces Awkward Silence
Donald Trump faced a significant setback during his address to U.S. Navy officers at the service’s 250th anniversary celebration in Norfolk, Virginia. Attempting to provoke the crowd into booing former President Barack Obama, he was met with an unexpected silence.
Event Details
On a sweltering afternoon, Trump delivered an hour-long speech that started approximately 45 minutes late. The audience consisted of active-duty Navy personnel, some of whom were facing unpaid work due to the ongoing government shutdown. Trump’s address included a mix of personal anecdotes, war stories, and campaign-style rhetoric.
A Failed Provocation
In a moment aimed at garnering laughter and boos, Trump referenced his former White House physician, Ronny Jackson, stating, “He was also the doctor for Barack Hussein Obama. Have you heard of him?” This remark, intended to spark a reaction, fell flat, with the audience remaining muted.
Trump’s Fitness Claims
In a bizarre twist, Trump claimed that Jackson considered him the best physical specimen among past presidents, including Bush and Obama. He recounted an imagined scenario where Jackson was asked to compare the health of the three presidents, to which he humorously concluded, “That’s easy. President Donald Trump!” The audience’s response was minimal, merely offering a faint round of applause.
Comparison with Other Military Speeches
This moment echoed a previous awkward attempt at engagement from Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth. During a speech at Marine Corps Base Quantico, Hegseth’s remarks, which included the acronym “FAFO” (a phrase implying aggressive action towards enemies), received only mild laughter and minimal encouragement.
Controversial Figure: Ronny Jackson
Ronny Jackson, whose medical license lapsed amid controversies during his tenure as White House physician, continues to be a staunch supporter of Trump. Once dubbed “Candyman” for his alleged over-prescription of drugs, he has remained a loyal ally and even treated Trump after an injury sustained at a rally last year.
Reflection on Military Engagement
Trump later remarked, “I’ve never walked into a room so silent before,” indicating his surprise at the audience’s reaction—or lack thereof. The backdrop of the ongoing government shutdown loomed over the celebration, as many service members were confronting unpaid duties.
Overall, Trump’s attempt to incite the Navy against Obama not only flopped but highlighted the divide between political entertainment and the solemnity of military service.
