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The Role of an Apologist in Presidential Communications: Is Kayleigh McEnany an Enabler?
The Role of an Apologist in Presidential Communications: Is Kayleigh McEnany an Enabler?
The position of a Press Secretary is not just a role of conveying official statements and clarifying policies, but it often involves a much darker aspect: defending controversial actions and statements. This article delves into the debates surrounding Kayleigh McEnany, examining whether she fits the role of an apologist or, as some suggest, more accurately a liar and enabler.
The Foundation of Her Position
During the 2016 campaign, Kayleigh McEnany was known for defending every lie that came out of Donald Trump's mouth. In fact, she wasn't just a defender of true lies—she often made up her own. This propensity for maintaining the narrative through any means possible ultimately won her favor with the White House, leading to her appointment as Press Secretary.
Given this history, it's clear why she might continue to repeat any BS that Trump wants her to say. However, some argue that she is not simply an apologist but rather an enabler. Her job is to explain and cover for their boss, which is more about enabling rather than offering a straightforward defense.
The Interview Question That Goes Beyond the Norm
Legend has it that during job interviews, a potential Press Secretary might be asked a series of questions such as:
Would you lie? Would you obfuscate? Would you spin? Would you pivot? Would you rationalize? Would you equivocate? Would you apologize?The fact that these questions are part of the interview process highlights the expectation that the person hired will not just clarify but also defend with all means necessary. This raises the question of whether Kayleigh McEnany, and other apologists in similar roles, are fulfilling a more sinister role than that of an apologist.
The Enabler in Action
A Press Secretary is hired to explain and cover for their boss, and in the case of Trump and McEnany, this role has taken on a propaganda and provocative dimension. While many would argue that an apologist is someone who defends something controversial, the term "enabler" seems more fitting. Enablers in these roles shield their bosses from accountability, often by rationalizing their actions and statements.
Kayleigh McEnany's role as an enabler can be compared to other historical examples, such as Jay Carney, Pierre Salinger, and George Ackerson. These individuals, like McEnany, have played a critical role in shielding their respective administrations from scrutiny and criticism.
Conclusion: The Need for Flak Catchers
Donald Trump's presidency has necessitated the existence of individuals like Kayleigh McEnany. Due to his inarticulate nature, he requires someone to defend his disastrous presidency, allowing him to avoid the blame. The role of the enabler is to catch the flak and defend the indefensible. If they dig the hole deeper, he can deny them or fire them. This is a much more cynical and dangerous role than that of a traditional apologist.
As the battles continue, it's clear that the role of the Press Secretary in this context extends far beyond simple communication and into the realms of cover-up and manipulation.
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