Source: Libertarian Institute
by James Rushmore
“During a debate with political commentator Ryan Girdusky back in May, journalist Michael Tracey described a phenomenon he calls ‘Trump devotion syndrome.’ (As far as I can tell, that term was originally coined by the Christian ethicist Andrew T. Walker, who referenced it in a 2024 piece. It was also used by Bill Maher this past March.) According to Tracey, those afflicted with the lesser-known TDS ‘dismiss any critical observation about [Donald] Trump, no matter how substantive, as frivolous or petty — like it’s just about his manner of speech or style.’ In essence, individuals suffering from TDS sidestep any substantive critiques of Trump. … The appeal of such a worldview is understandable. After all, it transforms pro-Trump politics into a form of liturgy, one in which supporters of the president can trust the plan and cede all decision making to The Donald.” (08/18/25)
https://libertarianinstitute.org/articles/the-dangers-of-trump-devotion-syndrome