On Christmas Day 2024, President-elect Donald Trump generated widespread attention and controversy with a series of social media posts filled with sharp criticisms of political adversaries, suggestions of U.S. territorial control, and disdain for recently pardoned federal inmates. His statements, made on Truth Social, stood in stark opposition to the more traditional holiday messages issued by outgoing President Joe Biden.
Trump’s initial greeting, which began as a festive wish for all, soon turned contentious as he directed fiery comments at several targets. He aimed comments at Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, mockingly calling him the 'governor' of Canada, and pointedly suggested the nation could become the 51st state of the U.S. He claimed this move would drastically cut Canadian taxes by 'more than 60 percent' and double the size of their businesses. Trump stated, 'If Canada was to become our 51st State, their Taxes would be cut by more than 60%, their businesses would immediately double in size, and they would be militarily protected like no other Country anywhere in the World.'
Not stopping there, Trump continued to cast his gaze outward, focusing on the Panama Canal, which he argued might need to return to U.S. control. He lamented the financial resources the U.S. has spent on the canal, which he recalled took the lives of 38,000 Americans during its construction. He claimed it was still under the 'illegal' management of Chinese soldiers, saying, 'Merry Christmas to the wonderful soldiers of China, who are lovingly, but illegally, operating the Panama Canal.'
To the people of Greenland, Trump asserted their needs were aligned with U.S. national security interests, reiterateing, 'Likewise, to the people of Greenland, which is needed by the United States for National Security purposes and, who want the U.S. to be there, and we will!'
Simultaneously, Trump attacked Biden's decision to grant clemency to 37 federal death row inmates, who were granted commutation of their sentences to life without parole. Trump expressed indignation, saying to them, 'I refuse to wish a Merry Christmas to those lucky 'souls' but, instead, will say, GO TO HELL!' His comments were sharply framed, describing the inmates as the 'most violent criminals' who had engaged in heinous acts including murder and rape. This post was aimed at solidifying his public stance against what he perceived as leniency from Biden.
Reflecting on the tone and approach taken by both political leaders, Biden shared warm messages characterized by kindness and encouragement. His posts emphasized holiday cheer and compassion, contrasting starkly with Trump's approach. Biden’s traditional Christmas greeting recognized service members and wished Americans peace during the holidays, declaring, 'Jill and I hold a special place in our hearts for the brave men and women in uniform.' This was coupled with sentiments aimed at uplifting those struggling during the holidays.
The divergent styles of the two leaders highlighted the broader political divide as Trump is set to take office on January 20. His brash comments, including one where he described his opposition as 'Radical Left Lunatics,' serve as reminders of the animosity he maintains against his political rivals. Trump’s style, often described as confrontational, suggests he intends to carry his combative rhetoric forward as president.
These posts are not without their critics. Following Trump's Christmas Day barrage, commentators and politicians voiced varying opinions. Supporters saw his remarks as strong positions reflecting concerns over national security, whereas detractors expressed alarm over his aggressive stances, with some referring to his language as reminiscent of dictatorial rhetoric.
The backdrop of Trump’s remarks included multiple legal battles and his claims of election fraud from the previous election. He concluded his Christmas message by asserting, 'We had the Greatest Election in the History of our Country, a bright light is now shining over the U.S.A. and, in 26 days, we will, MAKE AMERICA GREAT AGAIN. MERRY CHRISTMAS!'
While his supporters rallied to his defense, believing he holds America to higher standards with calls for control over the Panama Canal and Canada, critics warn of the potential fallout from such views. The Canadian government, represented by their Public Safety Minister Dominic LeBlanc, viewed Trump's comments about Canada becoming the 51st state as mere jest. Greenland’s Prime Minister Múte Egede firmly stated, 'Greenland is ours. We are not for sale and will never be for sale.'
Overall, Trump's Christmas messages encapsulated his unapologetic stance, combining holiday wishes with political hits and territorial ambitions. This blend of festive cheer and fiery rhetoric will undoubtedly resonate as he prepares for his administration.
With his confrontational communication style signaling what lies ahead, observers around the globe will be watching eagerly to see how Trump’s words translate to actions once he is sworn in as president. The contrasting moods of Christmas 2024, marked by Trump's aggressive messaging against Canada, China, and federal inmates, remind citizens of the charged atmosphere as the nation moves toward another chapter under Trump’s leadership.
