Slate News What Next | Barron Mania
Feb 25, 2025
Dan Adler, a staff writer for Vanity Fair and an expert on Barron Trump, dives into the mystery surrounding the president's youngest son. With no social media and little public speech, Barron has become an icon of Trump masculinity for Gen Z. Adler discusses the transformation of Barron's image during his father's presidency, the cultural impact of memes, and his college experience at NYU amidst a political spotlight. The conversation delves into the narratives shaping Barron’s role in the evolving political landscape and celebrity culture.
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Barron's Early Fame
- Barron Trump's public image is built from memes and online speculation.
- He gained early attention through footage of his father's Hollywood Walk of Fame star ceremony and later for his reactions during the 2016 victory speech.
Barron's Silence as Strategy
- Barron Trump's silence allows others to project their interpretations onto him.
- This withholding strategy is effective, similar to celebrities like Daft Punk or The Weeknd.
Barron's Evolving Image
- Barron Trump's image has evolved from a potentially progressive, even autistic child to a MAGA hero.
- This shift happened during his father's second term, coinciding with a rise in speculation about Barron's influence.