We May Not Agree on Donald Trump But Can We at Least Agree on Barron? by Ann Marie Patitucci

Opinion
6 years ago

We May Not Agree on Donald Trump But Can We at Least Agree on Barron?

Millions of people were disappointed, angry even, when Donald Trump was elected President. But that is no reason for them to target or cyber bully his 11-year-old son, Barron Trump. Barron wasn’t elected President; his father was. This child didn’t ask for any of this. And yet, on Inauguration Day, “Barron Trump” trended on Twitter. Barron (then 10) was targeted for his appearance and social skills. "Saturday Night Live" writer Katie Rich even suggested that he “will be this country’s first homeschool shooter.” We are better than this. (Rich was suspended by SNL and later apologized.)

Barron continues to be scrutinized. Just the other day Ford Springer, a reporter for The Daily Caller, suggested that Barron’s attire for public appearances “isn’t normal.” I have an 11-year-old son myself. I can imagine his response to the suggestion that he, or his behavior, “isn’t normal.” If the article went viral? Well, we can all imagine how that might amplify his feelings. What’s worse? Springer was not alone in his criticism. We are better than this. 

Former White House child Chelsea Clinton took to Twitter to defend Barron: "It's high time the media and everyone leave Barron Trump alone and let him have the private childhood he deserves.” I couldn’t agree more.

If there’s one thing we should all be able to agree on, regardless of party affiliation or our feelings about Donald Trump, it should be this: No adult should target or cyber bully a child. Let’s set an example for our own children. Be the change you wish to see in the world.

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Donna John
Well said, @amghalstead.
Elisa Schmitz
So true, Ann Marie Gardinier Halstead! Kids of politicians (and even celebrities) should not be targets of ridicule or shaming. They didn't ask to be put in the spotlight. Kindness (and common decency) is paramount!
Elisa Schmitz
BTW, I think the writer who tweeted that has been suspended. Good for SNL for taking action! Ann Marie Gardinier Halstead Donna John
Ann Marie Patitucci
You're right, @elisa. She was suspended and she also apologized.
Heather Murphy-Fritz
Love this article and couldn't agree more!
Gina Pomering
100% , nice job Ann Marie!
Leila Ward
Completely agree!
Elisa Schmitz
I love this updated version of your original tip, Ann Marie Gardinier Halstead ! You are so right!!!
Katie Sloan
It's such a shame that this is still an issue? White House kids are off limit. Period.
S Roberts
I haven't watched tv for over 2 yrs and the news for 25. Where I get my information that makes me decided who I'm going to vote for is not discloable and that's where it ends. I don't discuss politics on any level because you're either preaching to the choir or throwing a rock at a hornet's nest. My personal social media participation is limited, however because of my business accounts I read the tweet by Katie Rich. Suspended? Deleted tweet? Apologized? Should've been fired, banned from having any social media accounts and personal or handwritten apology to Barron required. It's beyond concerning, actually sickening that those who have influence over such masses feel they can fire off remarks such as this and get off with just a suspension, deleting the post and a public apology. What restitution would you require if this was your child?
Ann Marie Patitucci
Great points and questions, Stacey! "Preaching to the choir or throwing a rock at a hornet's nest"- love it!

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