In a stunning and provocative move, Donald Trump has ignited a firestorm of backlash after referring to himself as a “king” in a viral social media post.
The declaration, made shortly after a significant policy announcement, quickly stirred national controversy and drew condemnation from across the political spectrum. Critics say the post, which included a doctored image of Trump in royal regalia, signals troubling implications for his political messaging and intentions.
On Wednesday, February 19, the 78-year-old former president posted the now-infamous statement to Truth Social. In it, he implied a monarch-like status—a move that set off alarms about his views on democratic norms and leadership. Amplifying the outrage, the official White House X (formerly Twitter) account reposted the quote alongside a satirical image of Trump wearing a golden crown. The fake Time magazine cover featured the words “LONG LIVE THE KING” with the New York skyline in the backdrop, making the message appear even more surreal.
Among the first to respond was New York Governor Kathy Hochul, who criticized the message as authoritarian and out of touch. “We are a nation of laws, not ruled by a king,” she posted. “Public transit is the lifeblood of New York City and critical to our economic future — as a New Yorker, like President Trump, knows very well.”
Doubling down in a public press briefing, Hochul expressed her outrage, noting, “New York hasn’t had a king in over 250 years—and we’re not about to start now. In case anyone’s forgotten, New Yorkers don’t back down. Not now. Not ever.”
She defended the state’s latest infrastructure reforms, citing sharp improvements in traffic flow, transit punctuality, and small business activity since a congestion program took effect last month.
“We’ll see you in court,” she concluded—signaling legal resistance to any policies or rhetoric that undermine state governance or democratic institutions.
David Hogg, vice-chair of the Democratic National Committee, also took aim at the viral post, stating, “Republicans, stop overreacting and calling Trump a king,” in a tweet that included the White House’s satirical image.
While supporters of Trump downplayed the statement as political theater, critics argue that the symbolism behind it cannot be ignored—especially during an election year. For many, the “king” reference evokes fears of autocracy and erodes the foundational principles of American democracy.
What’s at Stake?
Trump’s decision to label himself in monarchic terms has opened a broader national conversation about power, leadership, and the lines between influence and authoritarianism. Though likely intended as a symbolic statement or media provocation, the reaction from elected officials and the public underscores growing concern about how such language shapes political discourse.
Whether the post was satire, self-flattery, or a trial balloon for more extreme rhetoric, it leaves many asking: What kind of leadership does Trump envision? And how far is too far in the battle for political dominance?
As Governor Hochul and others vow to challenge the notion of “kingship” in American politics, this episode may prove to be more than a viral moment—it could become a defining test of the country’s democratic resolve.