In a recent interview with MSNBC’s Jen Psaki, highlighted by The Mediate on September 23, 2023, former U.S. Secretary of State and 2016 Democratic presidential nominee Hillary Clinton sharply critiqued former President Donald Trump’s communication approach. Clinton accused Trump of using “projection,” a psychological defense mechanism where one attributes negative actions or intentions to others.
Discussing an excerpt from the conversation aired on “Morning Joe,” Clinton articulated, “Whenever [Trump] accuses somebody else… it’s almost guaranteed he’s doing it himself or he’s already done it.”
Clinton’s claims came in response to Trump’s recent statement denying any intention to pardon himself for alleged wrongdoings should he regain the presidency. Skeptically, she remarked, “I don’t believe him on anything. Why would I start believing him on that?”
This isn’t the first time Trump has been pinpointed for projection. The 2020 Really American PAC ad showcased instances where Trump seemingly attributed his actions to Democrats.
As the 2024 election approaches, the spotlight will likely intensify on Trump’s communication patterns, and whether Clinton’s “projection” critique becomes a central narrative in political discussions.