Why Donald Trump Should Not Be Invited to Give a Commencement Address

When it comes to inviting a guest to give a commencement address, finding the right speaker is no small task. However, for many schools and student bodies, the idea of former U.S. President Donald Trump addressing graduates is a non-starter. There are several compelling reasons why his presence would be particularly problematic.

A Threefold Rejection: Self-Involved, Dishonest, and Inappropriate

The last time Trump was invited to speak, it was at the Boy Scouts of America Jamboree. Interestingly, he was not invited back, nor was he considered for any other speaking engagements. This exclusion is not without reason, as his speaking style and behavior are scrutinized for several critical flaws.

Personal Reflections and Lies

Trump's speeches are often characterized by long, self-centered monologues that focus mainly on his own achievements and great work. These are far from uplifting; instead, they are more often than not seen as manipulative and self-serving. The sheer fact that these addresses can be described as 'rambling monologues' is a stark indictment of their quality and effectiveness. Additionally, there are reasons to question the honesty of many of his claims, particularly when it comes to his college career and any allegations of academic misconduct. These aspects do not bode well for an individual seeking to inspire a new generation of young adults.

Charged Negotiations and Convictions

For numerous reasons, Trump is not a name that would appear on the lips of any institution looking to inspire its graduates. He has been involved in a series of legal battles and allegations that have cast a shadow over his public persona. He is currently facing multiple criminal charges, including 91 felony counts. He has also been under scrutiny for his actions that are labeled as 'beyond the pale' in terms of behavior and conduct. Any person or entity that would ask him to give a public address, especially one that should be celebratory and uplifting, would be in a very precarious position.

Chaos and Paranoia

The man is decried as a generator of chaos, and his presence at a graduation ceremony would likely be fraught with difficulties. Not only is he not seen favorably by his alma mater, but the very notion of inviting him comes with a severe lack of the coherence and clarity needed for such a significant event. Even those familiar with his rhetoric acknowledge that he struggles to convey his thoughts in a logical and coherent manner. A graduation address is about celebrating achievements and looking to the future, not engaging in paranoid delusions and conspiracy theories.

Rejection in Public Forays

In a broader sense, the rejection of Trump for speaking engagements is not just about his personal failings. It's about the values and ethics that are upheld by institutions. Trump is neither respected nor trusted by a significant portion of the population. Furthermore, his recent trials in court, his pending investigation, and his captive audience acts all contribute to the understanding that inviting him would be to condone and endorse his actions, which are widely seen as not only unethical but also illegal.

Continued Scrutiny and Condemnation

Regardless of the legal outcomes, the image and actions of Trump continue to have repercussions. Even if newly unearthed information does not substantiate all the allegations against him, the lingering doubts and the continued investigations mean that his presence at any public event, especially one meant to inspire and uplift, is both inappropriate and contentious.

Conclusion

While many former presidents and political figures have been honored with the opportunity to give commencement addresses, Donald Trump's invitation would be unjustified and inappropriate. The reasons for this rejection stem from his pervasive insistence on self-promotion, the undeniable lies he has spread, and his lingering legal and ethical issues. Therefore, any institution contemplating an invitation to this former president should seriously reconsider, particularly in light of the importance of instilling values of honesty, integrity, and responsibility in the next generation.