Today, Explained The late, great Hannibal Lecter
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Aug 15, 2024 
Margaret Hartmann, Senior Editor at Intelligencer, dissects Donald Trump's unsettling references to Hannibal Lecter in his speeches. She explores how this infamous character has been misappropriated to shape narratives around immigration, showcasing the disconnect between fiction and reality. The discussion also critiques historical immigration fears, drawing parallels with the Mariel Boatlift, and examines the language of political figures like Biden and Trump, revealing how communication styles can influence public perception and voter engagement.
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Trump's Strange Rants
- Donald Trump repeatedly references Hannibal Lecter in speeches, alongside other bizarre claims.
- These include assertions about magnets not working underwater and a misattributed Robert E. Lee quote.
Hannibal Lecter Explained
- Hannibal Lecter, portrayed by Anthony Hopkins in Silence of the Lambs, is a cannibalistic serial killer.
- Trump's referencing of this fictional character is perplexing, especially given the film's inaccurate portrayal of mental illness.
Trump's Hannibal Lecter Bit
- During his speeches, Trump vilifies migrants, claiming they come from prisons and mental institutions.
- He then references Silence of the Lambs and Hannibal Lecter, sometimes quoting lines from the movie.