In his address at the Democratic National Convention on Wednesday, former President Bill Clinton took a playful jab at Donald Trump for his unusual admiration of Hannibal Lecter, the fictional serial killer from The Silence of the Lambs.
Clinton targeted Trump’s boastful claims about how the world respected America more during his presidency. He pointed out that Trump made these assertions “with a straight face” during his debate with President Biden in June, humorously suggesting that Trump’s acting abilities were noteworthy but his claims questionable.
linton contrasts his clarity with Trump’s bizarre Hannibal Lecter praise during his DNC address
Clinton then questioned the international community’s reaction to Trump’s frequent references to Hannibal Lecter during his campaign rallies. He remarked that global leaders expect clarity about an American president’s values and beliefs. “What are they supposed to think of these continuous tributes to the ‘late, great Hannibal Lecter’?” Clinton asked, drawing laughter from the audience. He contrasted his own role as the “Explainer in Chief” with Trump’s bizarre fascination, saying, “I don’t know what to say.”
Trump has repeatedly lauded the fictional cannibal, describing him as a “wonderful man” during his speeches. In a noteworthy instance in New Jersey, Trump veered from discussing unfounded claims about migrants to praising Lecter, quoting the character’s line about having a “friend for dinner” in a way that seemed to highlight his unusual taste in references.
The Harris campaign has criticized Trump’s comments as “weird,” while actor Anthony Hopkins, who portrayed Lecter, expressed his dismay and surprise at Trump’s use of the character.
In response to Clinton’s remarks, Trump’s campaign dismissed him as a “total loser.” Spokesperson Steven Cheung accused Clinton of desperately seeking attention and suffering from “Trump Derangement Syndrome,” which he claimed had diminished Clinton’s credibility and relevance.
