As President Donald Trump viciously attacked his perceived political foes, he whipped up boos from the gathered troops directed at California leaders, including Gov. Gavin Newsom.

cross-posted from: https://discuss.tchncs.de/post/38390606

Internal 82nd Airborne Division communications reviewed by Military.com reveal a tightly orchestrated effort to curate the optics of Trump’s recent visit, including handpicking soldiers for the audience based on political leanings and physical appearance. The troops ultimately selected to be behind Trump and visible to the cameras were almost exclusively male.

One unit-level message bluntly said “no fat soldiers.”

“If soldiers have political views that are in opposition to the current administration and they don’t want to be in the audience then they need to speak with their leadership and get swapped out,” another note to troops said.

Cherry picking your fan boys, very Alpha move.

  • jrs100000@lemmy.worldEnglish
    2·
    4 days ago

    They kind of have to. They can order to them to stand there for the speech and to cheer at the end, but there are a lot of ways to interpret that order. Better to hand pick people who want to be there, rather than deal with a bunch of sarcastic soldiers trying to make their displeasure known on camera.

    • Bluefalcon@discuss.tchncs.deOP
      3·
      4 days ago

      Yeah military people usually don’t do that, especially to the position as esteemed Commander-in-chief. The USMJ will get your ass if you do. This is so bizarre to do even for him. That is saying alot.

      • jrs100000@lemmy.worldEnglish
        2·
        3 days ago

        I think its mostly just how thin his skin is and how hes publicising these events. Usually with a VIP political figure addressing the troops the big concern is physical security. They know full well that ~50% of the people in the room hate their guts, and they are totally ok with and used to that. They also know everyone will at least keep their mouth shut if they disagree.