Former US President Donald Trump has ignited a fresh controversy after sharing a meme comparing himself to O.J. Simpson’s infamous 1994 white Bronco chase. The post, widely condemned as ‘disgusting and racist,’ has drawn sharp criticism from political opponents and social media users alike.
The meme, posted on Trump’s Truth Social platform, features a split image of Simpson’s slow-speed police pursuit alongside a photoshopped image of Trump in a similar vehicle, captioned: ‘The Real Original.’ Critics were quick to slam the comparison, calling it a tasteless attempt to capitalise on a tragic chapter in American history.
Backlash and Accusations of Racism
Political analysts suggest the meme was intended to portray Trump as a victim of persecution, mirroring Simpson’s claim of being ‘framed.’ However, many have pointed out the glaring differences between the two cases, noting that Simpson was ultimately acquitted of murder charges in a trial that exposed deep racial divisions in America.
‘This is beyond tone-deaf—it’s outright offensive,’ said Democratic strategist Maria Cardona. ‘Comparing a murder case that traumatised the nation to his legal troubles shows how detached from reality Trump has become.’
Trump’s History of Controversial Memes
This isn’t the first time Trump has used inflammatory imagery to rally his base. In recent months, he has shared memes depicting President Biden bound and gagged, as well as posts echoing Nazi-era rhetoric. Experts warn that such content could further polarise an already divided electorate ahead of the 2024 election.
‘Trump’s social media strategy thrives on outrage,’ said media professor Dr. Ethan Zuckerman. ‘But this latest post crosses a line by invoking one of the most racially charged moments in modern US history.’
As the backlash grows, the incident raises fresh questions about the role of social media in politics and the boundaries of acceptable discourse in the digital age.
