In a recent interview on MSNBC’s Velshi, celebrated author Stephen King didn’t mince words when speaking about former President Donald Trump. He labeled him bluntly as “an idiot” and highlighted what he considers Trump’s most perilous attribute: an unwavering belief in his own infallibility.
Self-Assured to a Fault: Belief in Invincibility
King warned that Trump’s firm conviction in his own immunity from failure poses a profound risk. It’s not just the ignorance that King finds alarming—it’s the man’s resolute faith that he cannot be wrong, a trait the author finds deeply troubling. Trump’s seeming certainty, coupled with what King sees as intellectual indifference, is what makes him especially dangerous.
The Horror of a Third Term
As a master of horror fiction, King views the possibility of Trump securing a third term as a real-world nightmare. He imagines it as the closing chapter of a terrifying saga—an outcome so dystopian it barely seems fictional. For King, the very notion of such a scenario turns history itself into a cautionary tale.
King’s Long-Standing Criticism of Trump
This bold criticism builds on years of outspoken commentary from King regarding Trump’s leadership. Most recently, King took aim at one of Trump’s controversial remarks involving Haitian migrants. A joke referencing that remark sparked outrage, accused by many of being racist. King stood his ground, clarifying that the joke was directed at Trump’s rhetoric—not the migrants themselves—and challenged those who misunderstood it to “get a sense of humor checked.”
A Writer’s Moral Compass in the Arena of Politics
King’s willingness to speak plainly about political figures reflects his belief that writers—and public intellectuals—have a responsibility to be vocal, even if it invites backlash. His blunt metaphors and strong language may ruffle feathers, but they underscore his conviction that when power becomes detached from reality, it becomes a narrative of horror we must confront.
Why King’s Words Resonate with Many
For millions of readers and viewers, King’s words strike a chord because they come from someone who has spent his career exploring the consequences of fear, power, and corruption. His warnings feel like a natural extension of his fiction, where unchecked arrogance and human folly often lead to disaster. By speaking out, King invites people to think critically about what leadership should look like in a democracy.
Pop Culture Meets Politics
King’s comments also highlight how deeply politics and pop culture have merged. Authors, musicians, and actors now regularly weigh in on national debates, shaping public opinion outside of traditional news outlets. In King’s case, his reputation gives weight to his words—his readers trust him not just as a storyteller but as someone with moral insight.
A Challenge to Voters
Ultimately, King’s fiery statements are a call to action. He isn’t just criticizing; he’s urging Americans to stay vigilant, pay attention, and participate in the political process. His message is clear: complacency is the real danger. Whether people agree with him or not, his remarks keep the conversation alive and remind voters that elections have consequences.
