In a year filled with sycophantic gestures towards powerful figures, the recent dictionary phrases like “rage bait,” “parasocial,” and “vibe coding” seem out of touch with reality. These terms sound like a blend of jargon picked up from social media influencers, failing to truly capture the essence of the current cultural climate.
A more fitting phrase to encapsulate the year may be “Trump grovelling.” It’s likely that many people found themselves expressing disdain for the excessive flattery directed towards the former president throughout 2025. From tech billionaires seeking favor to cabinet members showering him with praise reminiscent of medieval courtiers, the nauseating display of adulation seemed never-ending.
Instances like Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff declaring, “Working for you is the greatest honor of my life, Mr. President,” only added to the spectacle of obsequiousness. This behavior wasn’t confined to Americans, as even international figures like Benjamin Netanyahu and FIFA’s Gianni Infantino went overboard in their praise for Trump’s actions.
Notable personalities, including Nato General Secretary Mark Rutte and Keir Starmer, didn’t shy away from groveling either, with some going as far as to refer to Trump as “daddy” and requesting absurd favors. However, as 2025 nears its end, there is a glimmer of hope in the form of the BBC.
Amid Trump’s demand for a substantial fine against the BBC for alleged damages caused by a misrepresented speech edit, the broadcaster’s potential countersuit based on the truth of the matter could signal a shift in power dynamics. Trump’s attempts to deflect attention from other controversies by targeting the BBC’s integrity should be met with a strong legal response.
It is imperative for the BBC to stand firm against such manipulative tactics and hold Trump accountable for his actions. By challenging him in court and exposing his falsehoods, the BBC can reaffirm its commitment to truth and integrity, setting a crucial precedent in the face of relentless Trump grovelling.
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