Lecture Notes on Trump’s Rhetoric and Language Use

Introduction

Discussion on Trump’s views regarding discrimination and national security.
Focus on his response to a question about banning Muslims from entering the U.S.

Discrimination:
- Question raised about the morality of discriminating based on religion.
- Trump acknowledges concerns but emphasizes national security.
Terrorism and Violence:
- References to attacks in Paris and California to illustrate perceived threats.
- Claims there is "tremendous hatred" in the world.

Simplicity of Language:
- 220-word response analyzed for readability.
- 78% of words are one syllable (172 words).
- 17% are two syllables (39 words); very few three-syllable words.
- Speech analyzed to be at a fourth-grade reading level, compared to peers.
Sentence Structure:
- Use of simple sentences (e.g., "We have a real problem.").
- Rarely employs complex sentences or independent clauses.
Direct Address:
- Frequently addresses listeners with commands (e.g., "Look at Paris").
- Engages audience with implicating phrases (e.g., "you see people talking").

Framing Negative Responses:
- Trump positions backlash against his views as an overreaction.
Ending Strong:
- Often rearranges sentences to end with impactful words (e.g., "root cause").
Repetition:
- Repeats phrases for emphasis (e.g., "We have a problem").
- Key phrases include "tremendous" and "problem."

Salesmanship:
- Trump's language evokes feelings rather than focusing on facts.
- Utilizes a huckster's approach to engage and persuade.
Perception Management:
- Positions himself as relatable, claiming support from friends who agree with him.

Trump’s use of language is effective for political communication, particularly with certain audiences.
Emphasizes emotional connection over detailed information or rational arguments.