The Las Vegas Sun published a strong editorial on Wednesday, sharply criticizing former President Donald Trump and cautioning voters that "the stakes are simply too high." The paper argued that Trump's "mental acuity and sharpness" appear to be diminishing.
Published just six days before Election Day, the editorial claimed that Trump, the Republican presidential nominee, displays "cognitive impairment" and "clear signs of mental illness." It referenced a recent *New York Times* analysis that noted an increasingly dark and angry tone at Trump’s rallies.
This criticism follows backlash from Trump’s rally at New York City’s Madison Square Garden, where some guest speakers reportedly shared racist and hateful views. Among them was comedian Tony Hinchcliffe, who made offensive remarks about Latinos, Jews, and referred to Puerto Rico as a “floating island of garbage.” Trump later told Fox’s Sean Hannity he didn’t know who Hinchcliffe was or who invited him, adding, "I’ve done more for Puerto Rico than any president."
*Sun* Publisher Brian Greenspun told *Newsweek* that recent events, including the Madison Square Garden rally and the *Times* analysis, prompted the editorial. "It’s time to say clearly that this is an issue," Greenspun said, referring to Trump’s behavior and cognitive state.
President Joe Biden’s age and mental fitness have also come under scrutiny, and he withdrew from the race in July after bipartisan calls to step down. However, Greenspun emphasized that Trump’s issues are equally concerning.
The *Sun* called on both Democrats and Republicans to be "alarmed" by Trump’s behavior, suggesting that he is susceptible to "manipulations by his own staff or even foreign adversaries." The paper urged voters to understand that the 2024 election transcends policy and party allegiance, calling it a test of the nation’s commitment to safeguarding its democracy.
Political analyst Craig Agranoff remarked to *Newsweek* that editorials like the *Sun’s* can sway undecided voters in swing states, though they might hold little impact for staunch supporters.
The editorial also criticized Trump’s running mate, Senator JD Vance of Ohio, accusing him of endorsing “extremist ideology” and being quick to follow Trump’s “worst instincts.”
With a readership of 150,000, the *Sun* is Nevada’s largest newspaper. Greenspun asserted that it’s "essential" for news outlets to weigh in on issues of national importance, especially during a presidential election. In Nevada, polling shows a tight race between Trump and Vice President Kamala Harris, with a recent CNN poll showing Trump leading by one point among likely voters, 48% to 47%.
Comments
Post a Comment