Conservative commentator urges Trump to quit social media and stop White House gold leaf
Radio host Erick Erickson told Anderson Cooper he wishes President Trump would stay off social platforms and cease lavish White House decorations.
In an interview with Anderson Cooper, conservative radio personality Erick Erickson lamented President Trump's habit of posting on social media, arguing it diverts attention from critical matters such as the $40 trillion national debt. Erickson said he would prefer the president focus on "renovations" rather than online rants. He also condemned the president's penchant for covering the White House with gold leaf, describing it as overly flashy.
Erickson warned that a large slush fund directed to the president's allies could become a political liability for Republicans in the midterms. He appealed directly to the president, asking him to stay out of cameras and social platforms. The discussion also referenced a book by Maggie Haberman and Jonathan Swan that mentions the gold leaf incident.
Why it matters
The comments highlight internal Republican criticism of Trump's public behavior and spending, which could influence voter sentiment.
How this story developed
- Aug 16 Trump's aide Natalie Harp dubbed his “human binkie” during covert Turkey exit
- Aug 17 While honoring teen lifeguard Ryder Williams and rescued boy Nathaniel Rai, Trump turned to the press and ordered Holmes to be quiet, labeling her “fake news.” He repeated the admonishment, directing the question to the child. The incident echoed earlier attacks on journalists.
- Aug 18 White House officials issued a rebuke following Ossoff’s rally comments about Natalie Harp.
- Aug 18 White House officials used profanity‑laden insults toward Ossoff in their rebuttal.
- Aug 18 Trump added claims of direct contact with Kim Jong Un and demands on South Korea during the same briefing.
- Aug 18 It was disclosed that Harp is a bone‑cancer survivor who attributes her recovery to the 2018 Right‑to‑Try Act.
- Aug 18 Megyn Kelly condemned Senator Jon Ossoff’s remarks about President Trump’s close aide Natalie Harp, calling the attack on the 35-year-old cancer survivor despicable.
- Aug 19 Scott Jennings reacted angrily on his broadcast after Ossoff mentioned Harp.
- Aug 20 Trump ordered an internal inquiry after private letters with Harp were leaked.
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