In a flurry of late-night activity on Truth Social, former President Donald Trump unleashed a torrent of over 50 posts, tackling a range of contentious topics from ongoing protests in Minneapolis to accusations of electoral fraud surrounding the 2020 election. This latest social media blitz coincides with heightened tensions following the fatal shooting of Alex Pretti by federal agents, as well as the recent death of Renee Good at the hands of an ICE agent, both of which have ignited protests in the city.
Protests in Minneapolis Spark Controversy
The unrest in Minneapolis has drawn national attention, particularly after the release of new footage showing Pretti, 37, allegedly engaging in aggressive behaviour towards an ICE vehicle shortly before his death. Trump’s supporters have seized upon this footage, positioning Pretti as an instigator rather than a victim of excessive force. One post shared by Trump described him as a “domestic terrorist,” reinforcing the narrative that these protests are not as spontaneous as they may seem.
In a particularly notable claim, Trump amplified a conspiracy theory suggesting that the demonstrators protesting Pretti and Good’s shootings were being financially compensated for their participation. A post he reshared declared, “James O’Keefe has now CONFIRMED that the Minnesota rioters are bought and paid for – to the tune of TENS OF MILLIONS of dollars.” This accusation of ‘astroturfing’—where orchestrated campaigns masquerade as grassroots movements—adds fuel to the fire of political division in the United States.
Electoral Fraud Allegations Resurface
Beyond Minneapolis, Trump’s posts also revisited familiar attacks on the Democratic Party, focusing on alleged voter fraud. With midterm elections approaching, he claimed, “The 2020 election was stolen right in front of your face,” and warned that those involved in electoral misconduct should prepare for accountability. These assertions, despite extensive debunking, continue to resonate with his base.
Among the more dubious claims was a suggestion that Wisconsin, a state leaning Democratic, reported 7.14 million registered voters while only having 4 million adults of voting age. This statistic has been challenged by independent voting analyses, which indicate that the actual number of registered voters is closer to 5 million. Trump’s narratives regarding electoral integrity remain a cornerstone of his ongoing political strategy as he seeks to galvanise support ahead of significant elections.
A Broader Attack on Political Opponents
Trump’s social media activity did not solely focus on Minneapolis or the 2020 election; it also extended to allegations against the California government for purported collusion with criminal organisations. By linking various issues—immigration, crime, and electoral processes—he aims to paint a picture of systemic corruption and incompetence among his political adversaries.
This strategy is not new for Trump, who has consistently leveraged social media to amplify his agenda and reinforce a sense of grievance among his supporters. His late-night posts often serve as a rallying cry, aiming to energise his base while simultaneously sowing discord among opponents.
Why it Matters
Trump’s latest social media outburst encapsulates the ongoing polarisation in American politics, where conspiracy theories and unfounded accusations have become part and parcel of public discourse. As the nation approaches critical midterm elections, the implications of Trump’s narratives may resonate far beyond his immediate followers, influencing broader public opinion and shaping the political landscape in the Asia-Pacific region and beyond. The interplay of misinformation, grassroots activism, and electoral integrity continues to be a pressing concern in democratic societies, highlighting the need for vigilance and accountability in the face of rising political extremism.
