During a recent episode of NBC’s “Meet the Press NOW,” Lara Trump, co-chair of the Republican National Committee and daughter-in-law of former president Donald Trump, responded to questions about Donald Trump’s controversial comments on Vice President Kamala Harris.
At recent rallies, Trump referred to Harris as “mentally impaired” and a “very dumb person,” remarks that have drawn attention from both parties.
NBC’s Kristen Welker highlighted that Trump’s tone has intensified, particularly towards Harris, as the election season progresses. In addition to his remarks on Harris, Trump called Minnesota Governor Tim Walz a “moron,” raising questions about the impact of his rhetoric.
Welker directly asked Lara Trump if this language best represents her father-in-law and the Republican Party, noting concerns about whether such remarks are appropriate.
Lara Trump defended Donald Trump’s language, saying, “This is Donald Trump, and he has never tried to make himself out to be anyone other than who he is.”
She explained that his remarks were delivered in a lighthearted manner at his rallies and that his audience typically understands the context. According to Lara, Trump has always engaged with his supporters in a candid way, which resonates with them.
Democrats, however, have criticized Trump’s language, calling it reminiscent of “middle school”-like name-calling and arguing that it distracts from policy discussions.
They believe that these personal attacks undermine the political discourse and shift attention away from substantive issues that voters care about.
Even within the Republican Party, some lawmakers have suggested that Trump focus on policy rather than personal insults. They argue that attacking Harris’s policies would be a more effective way to engage voters and present an alternative to the Democratic platform.
With the election nearing, Republicans are eager to make their message resonate, especially in battleground states.
Welker also noted concerns from some Republican candidates running in down-ballot races. These candidates, facing tough reelection campaigns, have expressed worries that Trump’s language could hurt their chances by alienating certain voters, particularly moderates and independents.
Lara Trump dismissed these concerns, asserting that Donald Trump has a history of helping down-ballot Republican candidates. She emphasized that Trump traditionally polls higher than many of these candidates and has consistently elevated them through his popularity with the Republican base.
“Any concerns about Donald Trump being on the ticket with them, I really don’t buy,” Lara said. She suggested that Democrats are likely more worried about losing the Senate and failing to gain ground in the House because of Trump’s presence on the ticket.
As Election Day draws closer, the question remains whether Trump’s rhetoric will help or hinder his campaign and those of other Republican candidates. While his language energizes his core supporters, the broader impact on swing voters and key races will be closely monitored in the weeks ahead.
