Newsletter: Has Trump Become a Jesus Figure?
Also: Empowering the Formerly Trafficked and Re-Connecting the Estranged
Dear friends,
I am disturbed but not surprised at the appearance of bandages on the ears of Trump supporters. It reminds me strongly of the similarities between Trump and MAGA and Shoko Asahara and the followers of the Aum Shinrikyo cult, infamous for the Sarin gas attack on a Tokyo subway station in 1995 - these believers also dressed up to look like their leader.
I have made a video exploring this connection, embedded below; I’d love to hear your thoughts. And, in case you missed my original Instagram post on the significance of the ear bandages, you can see it here.
To bring a note of hope, this week’s Influence Continuum podcast features Kristy Norbert LCSW, an amazing woman who has dedicated her life to working with human trafficking survivors; you can check out her powerful story below.
My latest blog post in Psychology Today is available; I’ve responded to a recent article in the New York Times on the rising trend of family estrangement, bringing up some points I think they missed. I think you’ll find it a provocative read.
I am presenting at the International Academy of Law and Mental Health Congress today and tomorrow; we will have a video of my panel discussion and my solo presentation as soon as we can edit them.
MAGA and Aum Shinrikyo - Disturbing Similarities
Ever since I originally wrote my book The Cult of Trump, I have been struck by the zeal of his followers, bordering on religious fervor. Now, with the appearance of the ear bandages to mimic his wound and people getting tattoos to commemorate the assassination attempt, the MAGA members’ worship of Trump feels even more like a repeat of the fervor given to Shoko Asahara by the members of Aum Shinrikyo.
Kristy Norbert, co-founder and executive director of Empowered Network, is a licensed social worker with over 20 years of experience who has developed trauma-informed programs aimed at helping trafficking survivors achieve long-term stability and self-sufficiency. Her insights reveal the critical intersection between human trafficking and mind control, similar to the techniques employed by cult leaders.
Listen to the podcast below:
Family estrangement is common, and it leads to significant emotional distress. As an expert in all forms of unethical influence, including cults, I frequently hear from families in which a loved one has cut off ties after undergoing a radical personality change due to exposure to malignant narcissists, predators, and authoritarian cults. One of the first steps employed by those exerting undue influence on another—whether by a destructive group, an unethical therapist, or an abusive partner—is to convince the victim to cut off contact with all other support systems.
As always, please let us know what you think about these pieces or what you’d like to see us discuss in the future. Thanks so much!
Unlock the Secrets of Authoritarian Control
Have you ever wondered how apparently well-adjusted individuals can become ensnared by the grip of mind control? Are you curious about the inner workings of cults and high-control groups? If so, our new course, “Understanding Undue Influence: The Essentials,” will answer those questions and more.
This course explores the concept of the Influence Continuum, based on the BITE Model, encompassing Behavior, Information, Thought, and Emotional Control. By the course’s end, you’ll have the tools to spot the subtle signs of manipulation and shield yourself and your loved ones.
Take the first step towards gaining a deeper understanding of these complex dynamics and empower yourself.
Since this Substack post touches on the subject of fanatical belief, it reminds me of advice that, when I was a teenager, I learned: "Take the cotton out of your ears and put it in your mouth."