Donald Trump’s latest controversial remark, labeling his political opponents as ‘vermin’, has drawn swift rebuke from the White House and some Republicans within the party.
In a tweet posted on June 24, Trump took aim at House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and other Democrats , calling them “evil, insane, vermin”. Though the term ‘vermin’ is widely understood to mean small, unwanted pests, it has long been used in a derogatory fashion to describe people.
The president’s opponents were quick to condemn the tweet, claiming it was a double standard to rhetorically attack elected officials using a term not unlike the language of hate groups.
White House Press Secretary Kayleigh McEnany did her best to defend Trump, saying the president was merely trying to be ‘provocative’ and ‘bold’. She downplayed the significance of the term ‘vermin’, claiming it was a word used to describe ‘political opponents’ rather than specific individuals.
But others disagreed, including several prominent Republicans such as Senators Pat Toomey and Lisa Murkowski. They expressed disappointment in the president’s choice of words, suggesting he should “lead by example”.
Some argued that such language should not be used by any public figure—regardless of political differences. As former presidential adviser Evan McMullin noted, “public discourse should prioritize respect for ideas over disrespect of people.”
Trump’s opponents were further riled up when a White House spokesperson argued that the president was held to a higher standard than everyday citizens and that his language was simply a reflection of his passion and honesty.
Though the president has never shied away from making incendiary remarks, this latest controversy has once again exposed the deep divisions within the Republican Party. Going forward, it will be interesting to see how party leaders navigate the growing tension between the president and his critics.