The curious case of Donald Trump

Even though the 2016 Presidential Elections are over a year away, an abundance of hype and controversy has begun through campaigns, debates and scandals involving certain presidential hopefuls. 

One of these hopefuls, Hilary Clinton, is currently trying to explain (although some might say cover her tracks) her role in security breaches from using unsafe servers.  However, she still remains the heavy favorite for the Democratic party.  Other potential nominees, such as Donald Trump, have taken people aback in other ways – much more “in your face” ways.

Prior to the 2012 Presidential election, Trump announced he would be running for president, but nothing ever formulated from his claims.  However, this time things have been very different.  Trump has taken his abrasive and boisterous personality in front of the entire nation and has vaulted to the top of the Republican candidate polls by a significant margin. 

Essentially, he’s become the quintessential case of “love him or hate him.”  There is simply no in between with Trump.  Maybe that’s how it should be.  Based on what he’s already said in his brief campaign, Trump himself sees many things that way himself. 

His remarks on Mexican immigrants have been heavily criticized.  Trump claims that Mexicans who cross the border into the United States are full of problems, such as drugs and other crimes such as rape, and goes as far to call them rapists.  A divisive statement to say the least, one many campaign managers would cringe to hear their candidate say.  However, it’s comments like this that have given Trump momentum.  Some people love Trump for his boldness in saying for these remarks, and others despise him for it. 

From a PR standpoint, having a candidate say something like this – something not just offensive and derogatory, but divisive – could be considered a crisis all in its own.  However, this is the curious case of Trump.  He is gaining momentum and power for his outlandish and bombastic remarks. 

Yes, he is receiving his very fair share of flack, but as of the moment, that doesn’t seem to be hurting him as he sits atop the Republican polls.  We will have to wait and see whether or not statements like this will work for Trump as his campaign continues and if he is fortunate to win the republican nomination. 

Appealing to one party is different than appealing to the entire nation.  His approach may have to change.  Depending on how well he does this election, it would be a very interesting case study – from a public relations standpoint – to examine what worked and what didn’t for Trump.