The lyin’ king Trump is the kind of leader the nation’s father feared and reviled

The comparison between former President Donald Trump and George Washington, the nation's first president, has become a recurring theme in political discourse, particularly as Trump continues to challenge norms of leadership and governance. This analogy, drawn from a recent op-ed published in *The Age*, frames Trump as a modern-day "king" whose behavior starkly contrasts with the principles embodied by Washington. The piece highlights how Trump's approach to power—marked by self-promotion, disregard for traditional decorum, and a penchant for controversial statements—stands in direct opposition to Washington's measured, restrained, and principled leadership style.

The narrative begins with a personal reflection on visiting Mount Vernon, where the author learns that Washington's dentures were crafted from animal and human teeth, a detail often overlooked in historical accounts. This anecdote serves as a metaphor for the physical discomforts and challenges faced by Washington, juxtaposed against the emotional and political turmoil caused by Trump's rhetoric and actions. The article underscores the irony that while Washington endured physical suffering without complaint, Trump frequently expresses frustration over perceived slights or criticism, suggesting a fundamental difference in their character.

Ron Chernow, a respected biographer of Washington, is quoted extensively in the piece, emphasizing the vast ideological and behavioral differences between the two leaders. Chernow notes that Washington was known for his discretion, courtesy, and avoidance of self-promotion, traits that would have been alien to Trump. He describes Trump's conduct as "non-stop bragging and boasting," a stark departure from Washington's humility and restraint. This characterization is reinforced by references to Trump's public displays of ego, including his insistence on delivering a lengthy Independence Day speech and his frequent use of the phrase "we rule by common sense," despite the correct term being "govern."

The article also delves into the broader implications of these contrasting leadership styles. It points out that Washington was deeply committed to preserving the fragile new democracy, recognizing the dangers of centralized power and advocating for checks and balances. In contrast, Trump is portrayed as someone who views democratic institutions as obstacles to his ambitions, seeking to consolidate power through executive orders, tariff policies, and attempts to influence primary elections. The text suggests that Trump's actions threaten the very foundations of American democracy, echoing concerns raised by figures like John Adams, who praised Washington's self-control and moral fortitude.

Another notable point is the comparison of their living environments. While Washington's home at Mount Vernon was modest and unadorned, reflecting his values of simplicity and dignity, Trump's residence in the White House is described as overly opulent, with excessive gold accents and grandiose interiors that symbolize his desire for visibility and status. This visual contrast reinforces the argument that Trump's leadership style is fundamentally at odds with the ideals of the Founding Fathers.

The article further touches on Trump's financial dealings, noting that during his first year in office, he reportedly earned over $2.2 billion from various ventures, including cryptocurrency projects. Despite the significant drop in value of some of these assets, the sheer scale of his earnings raises questions about conflicts of interest and the ethical boundaries of presidential conduct. This aspect of Trump's tenure adds another layer to the critique, highlighting how his pursuit of wealth appears to prioritize personal gain over public service.

As the piece concludes, it draws attention to Trump's potential plans to replace historic landmarks with commercial developments, such as replacing cherry trees in East Potomac Park with a luxury golf course. This proposal is framed as an affront to national heritage, drawing a parallel to the famous story of Washington chopping down a cherry tree—a tale that symbolizes honesty and accountability. By suggesting that Trump might engage in similar acts of environmental exploitation, the article implies a troubling shift in priorities and values.

In sum, the article presents a comprehensive and critical analysis of Trump's leadership style, using Washington as a benchmark to highlight the divergent paths taken by two leaders separated by centuries. Through detailed comparisons and expert commentary, it paints a picture of a presidency that challenges the foundational principles of American democracy, raising important questions about the role of ethics, integrity, and public service in contemporary politics.