The article examines the serious implications of Donald Trump's recent social media post, where he shared a video depicting Barack Obama and his wife, Michelle, in a racially offensive manner. The post, which Trump later deleted amid backlash but did not apologize for, exemplifies a concerning trend of dehumanization in political rhetoric. This kind of language is not merely an isolated incident; it ties into a broader historical pattern of using animalization to demean opponents and marginalize certain groups.

The author highlights that the practice of dehumanizing opponents is well-documented throughout history, particularly in fascist regimes and genocidal contexts. For instance, during Nazi Germany, Jews were described using animalistic language, which served to justify horrific acts of violence and discrimination. Similarly, during the European colonial era, African communities were often depicted with a rhetoric that stripped them of their humanity, legitimizing slavery and exploitation. The recurrence of such tactics particularly in modern political discourse raises alarming questions about the state of decency and civility in public communication.

The piece argues that Trump's behavior represents a significant departure from established norms of political discourse, undermining the foundations of decency that have been in place for decades. It suggests that Trump has effectively dismantled the basic rules of civility that had once governed political conduct, enabling a more aggressive and divisive style of communication that resonates with certain segments of the population. This trend not only reflects a shift in political culture but also has the potential to incite further racial and social tensions in society.