Trump's anxiety following assassination attempts

In a recent CNN segment, Haberman observed Trump’s visible anxiety during a rally in Uniondale, New York, where he reacted to perceived threats from the crowd. His comments about having a “yip problem,” a term often associated with anxiety, marked a stark contrast to his typical projection of strength. The first assassination attempt occurred in July when a gunman shot Trump in the ear at a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, resulting in one death and multiple injuries. The second incident involved an individual aiming a rifle at Trump while he was at his golf club in Florida. Concerns have even emerged among those close to Trump regarding potential post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) stemming from these events, suggesting that the psychological toll of these threats is significant and ongoing.

Trump’s Public Reactions

During the Uniondale rally, Trump described a moment of alarm, indicating he thought someone was approaching him aggressively. Haberman highlighted that his startled response and body language reflected a deeper sense of vulnerability. This acknowledgment of anxiety is unusual for Trump, who has historically emphasized a strong and assertive public persona.

Ongoing Threats

The atmosphere surrounding Trump and his campaign has become increasingly fraught with various threats, including physical and online dangers. Haberman noted that Trump and his team feel as if they are constantly under attack, which has affected their daily operations. These assassination attempts have not only heightened security concerns but also altered the psychological landscape for Trump as he navigates his political career amidst these challenges.