Washington, D.C. – A political and media storm is erupting in the United States as President Donald Trump officially announced that he would impose “severe punishment” on individuals and organizations that spread negative news related to his health on social media.
In a speech at the White House, Trump expressed unprecedented anger, emphasizing that “information fabricators” are trying to destroy his reputation and power. In particular, he unexpectedly called out famous actress and MC Whoopi Goldberg, accusing her of “deliberately participating in a smear campaign against the President.”
“They think they can spread fake news about my health to weaken me. They are very wrong. Especially Whoopi Goldberg – she will pay the price,” Trump declared to the camera, his tone full of challenge.
Media explosion
Immediately after the shocking announcement, social media exploded. The hashtags #WhoopiVsTrump and #TrumpHealthScandal quickly climbed to the top of Twitter in just a few minutes.
Trump supporters praised him as a “fearless warrior,” ready to smash all false rumors.
Meanwhile, opponents said this was a “dangerous retaliation,” which could threaten freedom of speech in the US.
Whoopi Goldberg, currently one of the veteran hosts of the program “The View,” has not given an official response. However, inside sources said she was “stunned” by Trump’s statement and is considering legal action.
Socio-political consequences
Many experts warn that Trump’s move could trigger a crisis of press freedom and freedom of speech in the US.
A Harvard law professor commented:
“If the President can threaten to punish an individual just because they comment on his health, this is an extremely dangerous precedent for democracy.”
Meanwhile, Wall Street investors are also worried. Just a few hours after the speech, the Dow Jones index fell 200 points, reflecting the widespread uncertainty in the market.
Personal and political war
Many observers believe that Trump’s direct targeting of Whoopi Goldberg is not just a matter of fake health news, but also a personal and political confrontation. Whoopi is famous for being a frequent critic of Trump on television.
With the latest statement, Trump not only launched a “war against rumors” but also opened a front against Hollywood and the liberal media.
The whole world is watching
International media simultaneously reported on the incident. From London to Tokyo, major newspapers are asking: “Is this a turning point marking the escalation of information control in the US?”
Many people are worried that if Trump continues to expand the “blacklist” of sanctioned people, the US will witness an unprecedented confrontation between the government and the entertainment and media industry.
The big question hanging in the air:
How will Whoopi Goldberg react to this direct attack?
Does Trump really dare to turn the threat into legal and political action?
And more importantly: is freedom of speech in the US entering a “risky new era”?
CNN asserts: This story does not end here.