Trump and the media just can't let the election go

Ruben Navarrette Jr. on Jul 30, 2017

Now who's living in the past?

As this tacky telenovela continues, let's be clear why the media hate Trump so much. It's not just partisan bias; a Center for Public Integrity survey in October found that 96 percent of political donations from media figures in last year's general election went to Clinton. And it's not just foolish pride and the fact that, as I have noted, too many in the media can't get over the fact that they missed the big story of Trump's victory.

It's also the fact that -- consistent with the old adage that we despise most in others the characteristics we see in ourselves -- Trump and broadcast media are the same animal.

Both have narcissistic instincts and take themselves too seriously. Both love the sound of their own voice, and dismiss opposing views. Both relish going on the attack, but have thin skins and take criticism personally. Both know how to make lots of money from shrewdly marketing a brand. Both worship at the altar of mass communication and understand the power of mega soapboxes to shape public opinion and advance political agendas.

And most of all, both Trump and the media are having a tough time getting beyond a dreadful election that most Americans would like to forget.

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Ruben Navarrette's email address is ruben@rubennavarrette.com.