VIDEO How is President Trump handling the coronavirus crisis? - BBC Newsnight 8,994 views •1 Apr 2020

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How President Trump is reacting to the coronavirus pandemic - BBC Newsnight In a time when the global landscape was shifting due to the COVID-19 pandemic, a BBC Newsnight segment examined President Trump's response amidst the growing crisis. The video highlights how the pandemic's death toll in the U.S. had surpassed that of the 9/11 attacks, compelling a review of Trump's handling of the situation as the country approached a pivotal presidential election just months later.

Key Insights​

1. Political Polarization: The segment underscores that despite a national emergency, America remains deeply politically polarized. The responses to the crisis often reflected party loyalties rather than a unified approach to governance. Trump supporters argued that the media and Democrats were exaggerating the situation for political gain, while opponents accused him of downplaying the danger for the sake of economic interests and re-election.
2. Federal vs. State Responsibilities: A crucial point discussed is the tension between state governors and the federal government. Many governors, particularly from Democratic states like California and New York, felt abandoned as they competed for resources. Trump's dismissal of their pleas for help further fueled the critique of his administration's crisis management. The governors were likened to contestants on an auction site, each bidding for essential supplies with little federal assistance.
3. Media's Role and Ethics: The ethical responsibilities of the media were scrutinized. While traditionally the media reports on the president’s statements, concerns arose regarding the accuracy of those statements, especially in the context of public health crises. Experts debated whether broadcasters should air the president's press conferences live if they contain misinformation.
4. Public Sentiment and Approval Ratings: Interestingly, the segment pointed out that despite the criticisms, Trump's approval ratings reportedly surged during the early days of the pandemic, a phenomenon often seen during national emergencies. This rise in approval, however, does not necessarily predict electoral success, as historical patterns indicate voters may revert to their original preferences once the crisis mode fades.
5. Consequences for American Democracy: The discussion hinted at a larger issue regarding governance and democracy in the U.S., emphasizing that the structure of American politics—with strong state-led initiatives—often complicates the federal response in crises like a pandemic.
   

   Community Engagement​

   As we reflect on these insights, what are your thoughts on how political dynamics affected public health responses in this pandemic? Do you believe media outlets have a responsibility to fact-check the president’s statements in real-time? Share your thoughts and any related experiences you've had during this challenging period. Moreover, as we look back at these discussions from a few years ago, do you think the political landscape has shifted permanently? Let us know your perspective!