- Key Points:
- Trump supporters wear bandages on their right ears to symbolize solidarity after the assassination attempt.
- The trend started at the Republican National Convention (RNC) in Milwaukee.
- The bandage trend is seen as both a tribute to Trump and a statement against political violence.
Why Are Trump Supporters Wearing Bandages on Their Ears?
In a striking display of solidarity, Donald Trump’s supporters have turned his recent assassination attempt injury into a fashion statement. Following an attack that left Trump with a bandaged right ear, supporters at the Republican National Convention (RNC) in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, began wearing similar bandages as a tribute to the former president and as a political statement.
The assassination attempt occurred on July 13 during a rally in Pennsylvania, where Trump was shot in the ear. The attack claimed the life of one rally attendant, critically injured two others, and ended with the shooter, Thomas Matthew Crooks, being shot dead by a Secret Service sniper. In his first public appearance since the incident, Trump showed up at the RNC with a bandaged ear, sparking a new trend among his supporters.
What Does the Bandage Symbolize?
Several Trump supporters, particularly from the Arizona delegation, started sporting white rectangular bandages on their right ears at the RNC. This act of wearing bandages has become a way for them to express their support and love for Trump, as well as to condemn political violence. The supporters’ versions of the wound dressing range from white fabrics and cotton pads to folded pieces of paper.
Joe Neglia, an Arizona delegate, called the bandage ‘the newest fashion trend,’ predicting that “Everybody in the world is going to be wearing these pretty soon.” Ray Michaels, another Arizona delegate, told the Associated Press, “We realized that this was a tragedy that should never have happened, and we want [Trump] to know that we are going through this with him.” Texas delegate Jackson Carpenter added, “We need a symbol about political violence not being acceptable in America.”
How Has the Trend Galvanized Trump Supporters?
The bandage has galvanized Trump supporters, who attribute his survival to “divine intervention.” Trump himself has stated, “it was God alone who prevented the unthinkable from happening.” The bandage trend joins other forms of expression among Trump’s supporters, including the chant “fight fight fight” and various merchandise portraying Trump as a survivor, along with the now-famous image of him pumping his fists after the rally shooting.
Conclusion
The bandage trend among Trump supporters is a vivid example of how political symbols can evolve rapidly, turning a sign of injury into a badge of solidarity and defiance. This trend reflects not only their unwavering support for Trump but also a broader message against political violence in America. As this symbolic fashion statement gains traction, it underscores the intense and personal connection many of Trump’s supporters feel with their leader and their willingness to publicly display their allegiance in unique ways.
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