Jim Hoagland: It’s not about kneeling, it’s about Trump’s massive ego

Contrary to Donald Trump’s message to his base, NFL players who kneel during the national anthem are not disrespecting our flag, military or veterans. They are protesting what they perceive as nationwide social injustice. Whether or not you agree with the merits of their protest, don’t let our Divider-in-Chief confuse the issue. The Donald never misses an opportunity to fire up his base and divide our citizens. His bizarre activities are intended to draw attention away from the Russian investigation and his failed priorities. This master narcissist feeds his massive ego by keeping his name in the forefront.

So instead of dealing with real problems – like a nuke-laden North Korea, national healthcare, tax reform or ravaged Puerto Rico – he continues to manufacture divisive issues and make bombastic crude attacks against anyone who questions his leadership skills.

At what point will our elected representatives of both parties put a stop to this vulgar display of egocentric behavior?

This story was originally published October 23, 2017 at 1:00 PM with the headline "Jim Hoagland: It’s not about kneeling, it’s about Trump’s massive ego."