Trump-Rosie disgrace

Trump – O’Donnell exchange words of criticism

I try not to make it a habit to comment on what celebrities do or say. Basically, my view is "who cares?" So this is a slight deviation from my trend, mainly to point out how childish these people behave. Rosie O’Donnell has harshly criticized Trump for not dethroning Miss USA. This is fair criticism. Miss USA is supposed to be a role model and her behavior can potentially influence many young girls. Underage drinking and other questionable behavior on her part has led many people to want her crown taken away. Again, this is understandable. So, in that regard, I agree with Rosie. The problem is how she did it. I know this is Hollywood and ratings mean everything, and since she arrived on The View her controversial remarks have meant higher ratings for the show. But, she got personal in her criticism, pointing out his infidelity and previous failed marriages. That simply wasn’t necessary.

So what does Trump do? Well, he does the same. He resorts to name calling, especially in regards to her weight and physical appearance, and points out her sexual orientation…clearly uncalled-for. Now, he’s even threatening lawsuits. It won’t be long before we hear "liar, liar, pants on fire" or "I’m rubber, you’re glue." Honestly, I’ve seen better behavior among preschoolers. We’re talking about a real-estate mogul and a daytime television celebrity here, each showing they have the emotional maturity of a 4-year old.

But ratings will go up. The View will get more viewers, and Trump has a new show coming as well. People magazine and Entertainment Tonight will be drooling at the war of words, and American culture will erode a tiny bit more. Basically, this is good TV, however embarrassing it may be for people like me who wish there would be more coverage of those who don’t resort to such cheap tactics. I enjoy healthy debate, and Trump’s decision on Miss USA’s behavior should be the source for some of that healthy debate. But, we’ll hear more of the Trump-Rosie controversy and that will likely take away from the whole purpose of the argument: Should Miss USA keep her crown?

I have a theory. Trump is no fool. His "Apprentice" shows haven’t done quite as well lately and perhaps he saw Miss USA’s behavior as an opportunity to put himself back in the spotlight. I’m sure he knew he would take some criticism and planned on firing back with these kinds of remarks. The result: everyone is talking about Trump once again. Well, thanks in part to Rosie O’Donnell, mission accomplished. I, for one, will not be watching The Apprentice or The View. I’ll simply stick to people who are capable of civil discussion without being mean or hurtful.