Did Trump’s Rhetoric Encourage the Pipe Bomb Terrorist?

Trump Explosive Devices
President Donald Trump speaks about crude pipe bombs targeting Hillary Clinton, former President Barack Obama, CNN and others, during an event on the opioid crisis, in the East Room of the White House, Wednesday, Oct. 24, 2018, in Washington. Evan Vucci / AP Photo
Trump Explosive Devices
President Donald Trump speaks about crude pipe bombs targeting Hillary Clinton, former President Barack Obama, CNN and others, during an event on the opioid crisis, in the East Room of the White House, Wednesday, Oct. 24, 2018, in Washington. Evan Vucci / AP Photo

Did Trump’s Rhetoric Encourage the Pipe Bomb Terrorist?

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On Wednesday, law enforcement officials confirmed that “pipe bombs” were sent to many prominent Democrats, and liberals, including former President Barack Obama, former Vice President Joe Biden, former Secretary of State, Hillary Clinton, and California Rep. Maxine Waters. Others who received similar explosive devices include billionaire philanthropist George Soros, and actor Robert De Niro. CNN’s New York newsroom also received a bomb and was evacuated, forcing anchors to host their shows from the street. While at first striking a conciliatory tone, President Trump now explicitly blames mainstream media, and reportedly refuses to accept responsibility. Today, we’ll ask Steve Clemons of The Atlantic if Trump’s rhetoric has contributed to these terrorist attacks.