Former ABC News political reporter warns of ‘possibility of violence regardless of election results’
A former ABC News political journalist said he believes former President Donald Trump’s victory in next month’s election could spark an unprecedented national “mental health crisis.”
Mark Halperin, who currently works at Newsmax and previously worked as a journalist and political analyst at MSNBC and NBC News, made this prediction in a book. episode On “The Tucker Carlson Show,” he sounded the alarm about the potential psychological effects of a second term in office for Trump.
Halperin believes a Trump victory could lead to major changes within the Democratic Party, calling it “the biggest mental health crisis in the history of the country.”
“I think tens of millions of people will be questioning their connection to the nation, their connection to the rest of humanity, and what their future holds for themselves and their children,” Halperin said.
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When Carlson asked, “Are you serious?”, Halperin replied, “100% serious,” citing possible workplace trauma, alcoholism, and rising rates of marriage break-up. stressed the need for increased access to mental health professionals.
Mr. Halperin has covered every U.S. presidential election since 1988 and is the co-author of this book. game changechronicling the 2008 presidential campaign, detailed the severity of the crisis, stating: The psychological damage will be unprecedented and lasting. I don’t think this country is ready for that. ”
He also expressed concern about potential violence arising from the crisis.
“I think there will be workplace conflicts, confrontations at social events, and protests that could turn violent,” he warned. “You won’t understand how something like this could happen. This is similar to a traumatic personal loss, where people struggle to process their emotions.”
Despite the grim predictions, Halperin expressed hope that Trump might recognize the potential impact and show leadership and act responsibly. “I hope he chooses his words and appointments wisely, believing that minimizing this mental health crisis will lead to a successful presidency.”
Looking ahead to Trump’s possible defeat, Halperin acknowledged that the outcome would depend largely on the nature of the defeat.
“If Mr. Trump loses by a narrow margin, his supporters may perceive fraud in the electoral process, which could further exacerbate the psychological impact,” he said, alleviating any fears. He suggested that transparency and clear communication from leaders are essential.
Mr. Halperin concluded by noting the importance of bipartisan efforts by the governors to address potential conflicts and protect public safety. “The risk of violence may be minimized if the losing candidate makes clear a desire to avoid violence and the governor remains vigilant,” he said.
“However, if these steps are not taken, we are deeply concerned about the potential for violence, regardless of the election outcome.”
Mr. Halperin’s harsh assessment of the potential scenario posed by a second Trump administration largely echoes his comments earlier this week in which he suggested that Mr. Trump would defeat Democratic nominee Vice President Kamala Harris if the election were held today. has been done.
“As I characterized this week, there is no doubt in my mind that the polls are accurate. At this point, Trump is winning and the numbers are trending in his direction. “It’s deafening,” Halperin said. said At the corner of the interactive platform “2WAY” where he serves as the editor-in-chief.
Halperin cited “issues in states with different demographics,” adding, “I have confidence in Mar-a-Lago, I have concerns in Wilmington, and I have Democratic elected officials who ask me what I know every day. “There are bigger concerns among the people.” […] And through their questions, they made it clear to me that they were concerned.
“That doesn’t mean she can’t win, but that’s how we’re heading into the weekend. Democrats are concerned about the status quo.”