Trump's Overwhelming Sense of Entitlement: A Deep Dive into "Grand Entitlement Disorder"

Donald John Trump, who served as our 45th President, presents a psychological puzzle that's as intriguing as it gets. Current psychiatric textbooks might not have a term yet, but "Grand Entitlement Disorder" could easily make its debut in future chapters. This idea captures individuals with a rock-solid belief in their own supremacy and entitlements, going beyond ordinary narcissism.

Entitlement through history: from kingship claims

The idea that leaders are entitled has been around forever, echoing back through history with concepts like "Divine Right," where kings claimed their rule was God-given. In a democracy like ours, however, this mindset doesn't sit comfortably and can shake our very democratic ideals.

"Grand Entitlement Disorder" in today's political scene

Back in 1977, Richard Nixon famously said, "If a president does it, it isn't illegal," showcasing a pretty loose take on presidential power. Trump, though, has taken this a step further. While Nixon tried hiding his questionable actions, Trump openly stretched legal limits and seemed unbothered by constitutional norms.

Trump's time in office was marked by actions that sidestepped traditional checks and balances. He often tested executive power, with Congress sometimes backing him up. Many GOP lawmakers fell in line, likely worried about political fallout if they didn't.

The Supreme Court's role in expanding presidential power

The Supreme Court case, Trump v. United States, was monumental. It concluded that a president can't be prosecuted when exercising "core powers"—yet didn't specify what those entail. This vague ruling essentially wrapped a protective blanket around presidential actions, sparking fears about unrestrained authority.

During this case, justices entertained scenarios about presidential power, even hypothetically suggesting extreme military actions might be within bounds. It seemed like a step toward a more concentrated executive power.

How democratic safeguards are being tested

Trump's entitlement, combined with political and court backing, chips away at our democratic safeguards:

 
• The Constitution's emoluments clause, meant as a guard against profiteering through office, often got ignored.
 
• Military limits on domestic roles, outlined in Possee Comitatus Act, were sidelined.
 
• Due process took a hit.
 
• Detention and deportation procedures grew harsher.
 
• Foreign policy ignored long-term alliances.
 
• Personal financial gain seemed a presidential agenda, lacking openness.
 
• Federal bureaucracy became politically charged like never before.
 
• Election tampering efforts moved forward, legality aside.
 
• Media faced threats, and history got bent toward political narratives.
 
• International deals seemed short on diplomatic tact.
 
• Environmental considerations went out, risking global health.
 
• Unqualified appointees ended up in federal jobs, weakening government.
 
• Personal grudges and aggression dominated political discourse.

The start a shift in politics

Trump's presidency strayed far from what our founding fathers had in mind—a government marked by balance and accountability. The rise in "Grand Entitlement Disorder" hints at creeping authoritarianism and makes our presidency seem more kingly.

History often shows that unchecked power leads downhill. The old saying, "the higher they fly, harder they fall," warns us about such hubris. It falls on our democratic institutions now more than ever, reclaiming their duty in holding up national principles.

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