Trump Spreads Fake Denzel Washington Quote
Donald Trump recently shared a fabricated quote attributed to actor Denzel Washington in support of his presidency. The erroneous quote claimed Washington praised Trump as “braver” and “smarter” than anyone he had met, describing Trump as a “great friend” and “an even better president”. This post was made on Trump’s own social media platform Truth Social.
Fact-checking efforts, such as those conducted by Snopes, have confirmed that Washington never made any such statement. In fact, the actor, who has a history of donating to Democratic causes, has not publicly expressed support for Trump. This fake quote has previously been misattributed to other celebrities like Mick Jagger and Matthew McConaughey.
Trump’s decision to share such disinformation coincides with his intensive campaign schedule leading up to the midterm elections. His actions occur amidst predictions that Republicans may lose control of the House and potentially the Senate, which Democrats could gain a majority in.
The president’s declining popularity is evident in recent polling data. A Pew Research Center survey indicates a dismal 30 percent approval rating, with a significant 68 percent disapproval. Similar findings from Reuters/Ipsos and CBS News/YouGov reflect a consistent drop in public support.
These polls also highlight diminishing satisfaction among Trump’s base. Only 67 percent of Trump supporters now approve of his job performance, marking a significant decline from earlier in his term. The sentiment across the Republican base has similarly waned.