It seems Donald Trump may have finally attacked the wrong person. While he may never apologize or admit that what he said was racist and wrong, there are a whole lot of people standing up to tell him that it was. Trump’s Friday tweet insulted NBA star LeBron James and CNN anchor Don Lemon.
While Lemon has probably grown accustomed to Trump’s childish bullying by now, no one was happy about the bullying of James, who sat for an interview to discuss his new I Promise school to teach at-risk youth and provide an education, food, and even a college education when they graduate.
Trump’s “I like Mike!” refers to Michael Jordan, arguably tied with James as the best NBA player of all time. He didn’t seem very flattered by Trump’s mention of his name.
Jordan’s spokesperson issued a statement on Jordan’s behalf amidst the backlash against Trump for his childish and petty rant against an athlete who has done so much good for his community.
‘I support LJ. He’s doing an amazing job for his community.’
I'd much rather live in a world reflecting the values, philanthropy, and yes intelligence of LeBron James and Don Lemon's intelligent commitment to truth and journalism than the divisive peevishness, lies, and narrow self-interest displayed by the President of the United States.
— Dan Rather (@DanRather) August 4, 2018
This is not the first time Jordan has spoken up against the president. When Trump attacked the NFL players who have protested police brutality by using their platform to take a knee during the national anthem at games, Jordan said:
‘One of the fundamental rights this country is founded on was freedom of speech, and we have a long tradition of nonviolent, peaceful protest. Those who exercise the right to peacefully express themselves should not be demonized or ostracized. At a time of increasing divisiveness and hate in this country, we should be looking for ways to work together and support each other and not create more division.’
Keep doing you @KingJames! ?? https://t.co/LOFVdQgyYr
— Stephen Curry (@StephenCurry30) August 4, 2018
Lebron James has been more concerned about continuing the exciting and necessary work he began on behalf of children.
Let’s get it kids!! Love you guys https://t.co/kY88geedus
— LeBron James (@KingJames) August 4, 2018
NBA Commissioner Adam Silver also stood up for James, just as many others have. James has been too talented, kind, and unselfish for most to tolerate Trump’s words.
Statement to USA TODAY Sports from NBA Commissioner Adam Silver, who is in Johannesburg, South Africa for the third NBA Africa Game (in partnership with the Nelson Mandela Foundation), in response to President Trump’s tweet about LeBron James and CNN’s Don Lemon pic.twitter.com/5Q01VX0bt6
— Sam Amick (@sam_amick) August 4, 2018
Perhaps Trump needs to focus on trying to be president instead of bullying better men.
Featured image screenshot via YouTube
