When Trump Joked About Kim Jong Un, Inside the United States, a Fireball Spewed Out on Social Media
On the morning of June 15, President Donald Trump dropped a line that traveled faster than a meme on Twitter: “I want my people to sit up at attention for me just like the North Koreans do for Kim Jong Un.” The comment, delivered during a Fox News interview outside the White House, has become the latest example of Trump’s brand of dead‑pan humor that fans say wishes for the rhetoric of authoritarian leaders.
What Happened?
- Trump was speaking about a possible White‑House visit by Kim, the ruler of a country that’s more known for its nuclear ambitions and human‑rights abuses than its coffee shops.
- He said, “Hey, he’s the head of a country… He talks and his people sit up at attention. I want my people to do the same.” The quip was meant to reference the “attentive” posture of North Korean officials.
- Within seconds, sections of the internet exploded in outrage, with politicians, journalists and everyday netizens reminding each other that President Trump’s jokes have previously flirted with praising autocrats.
Trump’s “I’m Just Joking” Response
When reporters pressed him on what he meant, the President sighed (once again) and said, “I’m kidding. You don’t understand sarcasm.”
It’s a line that echoes a March dinner remark about Chinese President Xi Jinping being “president for life” – a comment that also met with a barrage of dissent. Whenever Trump borders on praise for a dictator, a report of boo‑horns seems to follow.
Official “Apology” from the White House
Sara Sanders, the White‑House spokeswoman, quickly stepped in, proclaiming, “The president was clearly joking with his comments.” That, however, has not been enough to placate the chatter that Trump’s word on the world stage is being taken too seriously.
Experts Weigh In
Data‑driven strategist Chris Barron told Reuters he thinks “they believe Trump is an autocratic despot, waiting for any line that can light that train of thought.” This reflects how early a misstep can turn into an entire narrative arc.
Former Obama speechwriter David Litt added a bit of context: “When a president jokes about dictators, timing matters. If Trump wants to let in that dry humor, maybe he should wait until he’s no longer in office.”
Key Takeaways
• Trump’s comment about Kim Jong Un sparked an instant social‑media tantrum that highlighted how his remarks can be portrayed as authoritarian sympathy.
• The President habitually distances himself from these remarks, labeling them “jokes,” but the fallout shows the language might be too precarious for a president.
• Public figures and journalists alike point out that leaders should exercise restraint when referencing regimes that are notoriously brutal, lest they empower foes or unsettle allies.
• It becomes clear that what feels like a harmless smirk could usher in an uphill battle against the perception that Trump is “the autocrat’s best friend.”
