“Sharpton refused to directly label the President a racist, however, arguing that making racism ‘personal’ devalues them.”
Civil rights leader Al Sharpton had some sharp words to say in a recent Politico podcast, warning that “any match could lead to an explosion, and we’re getting that kind of atmosphere from this president.” Like many others, Sharpton called on President Trump to apologize for his remarks following the incidents in Charlottesville.
Previously, Al Sharpton had alleged that Donald Trump is a “proponent” of racism. Sharpton refused to directly label the President a racist, however, arguing that making racism “personal” devalues them. Sharpton also said that he wasn’t overly worried about the President’s personal psychology, but instead is concerned about public policy. Sharpton also slammed Trump for refusing to label the attack in Charlottesville an act of “domestic terrorism.”
The clash between police and protesters didn’t unfold until after Trump’s speech ended.
The comments came ahead of the rally held in Phoenix on Tuesday. Thousands of supporters gathered to express their continued support for the embattled President. Trump’s poll numbers have declined in recent days, and in many battleground states, such as Michigan, disapproval now outweighs approval.
Trump “Heated” Rally Draws Protests
Despite triple digit temperatures, thousands of people stood in line for a chance to hear the President. Crowd estimates haven’t been released yet, but President Trump was effusive in his praise of the crowd. Regarding crowd size, Trump said, “it is incredible.” The President spoke for roughly 75 minutes. Several other speakers, including Vice President Pence and Martin Luther King Jr’s nice Alveda King, also spoke at the rally.
The rally also drew in protesters. Police ended up using tear gas and pepper spray to disperse the crowds outside of the rally. Four individuals were arrested for activities related to the protests. The clash between police and protesters didn’t unfold until after Trump’s speech ended.
During the speech, Trump claimed that there weren’t “too many people outside protesting,” however, most media sources indicate that protester crowd sizes were substantial. Trump also argued that “our movement is a movement built on love.” The President has been harshly criticized for allegedly not doing enough to condemn the recent white supremacists rallies in Charlottesville.
Besides Charlottesville, President Trump has also been faced with many difficult choices throughout August. Shakeups at the White House have generated constant headlines, and in the weeks ahead, Congress is expected to deal with tax reform, raising the budget ceiling, and other issues. These battles are on the horizon, but reportedly Trump and Senator Mitch McConnell are not currently on speaking terms. Meanwhile, Trump recently outlined his strategy for Afghanistan, which will include continuing commitment to the unstable South Asian state.
President Trump has also come to blows with the Republican members of Congress, and especially the Senate. Republican Arizona Senator Jeff Flake has emerged as one of the harshest critics of the Trump administration. Flake is now facing a tough reelection battle with Trump surrogate Kelli Ward. The GOP establishment is throwing their support and a lot of money behind Flake. Trump blasted the sitting senator at the rally, stating that Flake is “ weak on borders, weak on crime, so I won’t talk about him. Nobody wants me to talk about him. Nobody knows who the hell he is.” Ward was in attendance at the rally. Trump has so far been a vocal supporter of Ward in spite of strong establishment resistance.
