President Trump’s tone of voice was quiet, his speech tempo measured, his rhetoric at times stern and then hopeful, and the content of his speech to the Arab countries was solid. Those expecting verbal flame throwing were disappointed. Those expecting detailed policy positions were also disappointed. The disappointment comes from those who don’t really like Trump, for what that’s worth.
There were a couple points the President made that are worth noting. These are in order of importance:
A key quote: “Religious leaders must make this absolutely clear: If you choose the life of terror, your life will be empty, your life will be brief, your soul will be damned.”
Another: “Muslim majority countries must take the lead in combating radicalization.”
All in all, a solid speech. There was nothing too flashy.
I get the impression from the muted response on Twitter that Trump-critics are disappointed to not have more fodder for their reflexive anti-Trump hate. Alas, this speech was a disappointment on that score.
There’s also this: The President’s speech reminds everyone, again, that Donald Trump is president. When the media is frothing at the mouth with conspiracy theories, they can delude themselves that Trump’s end is nigh and he’s going to be out of office and their nightmare will end.
Sorry, folks, the Nightmare just gave a solid speech on foreign soil.