Trump's Visit To Saudi Arabia Sends Wrong Message
I don't think I will ever be able to get the image out of my head of Trump bowing and curtsying to Saudi Arabia's King Salman. Sure other presidents, both Republican and Democrat, have visited the Saudis and even kissed and held hands with their leaders. This is not uncommon among men in Arabic countries, and I do not care one way or another. To argue about such expressions of respect serves no one.
The hypocrisy of it all doesn't even frustrate me that much. Trump specifically targeted Muslims during his campaign and continues to do so. From Muslim bans and registries to lying about seeing Muslims celebrating the 9/11 terrorist attack, there has been no doubt left in my mind that he does not like them. But I've grown used to his hypocrisy and expect nothing less. The man proves on a daily basis that he cannot tell the truth. It would actually shock me were he to be sincere and honest.
The problem I have with Trump visiting Saudi Arabia is the same I have had for any other president: women's and gay rights violations. It is beyond abhorrent that an American president, Democrat or Republican, would ever visit this country without at least commenting on these crimes. I'm not talking about something they did 20 years ago. I'm talking about current laws and customs that contribute to outright violence, imprisonment and even death.