Donald Trump just proved he’s quick to dole out judgment without actually listening to the word of the people.
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When trying to gain the faith and hope of a skeptical nation, it’s best not to target the most diverse, most celebrated show currently on Broadway. Unfortunately, Trump didn’t seem to get the memo. Either that or he doesn’t care, because the president-elect didn’t have any problem calling the Hamilton cast’s heartfelt message to Mike Pence “harassment.”
Vice President-elect Pence attended the smash hit on Friday night and, at the end of the performance, the cast had some words for him.
According to the New York Times, actor Brandon Victor Dixon, who played Aaron Burr, took the stage to read a statement written by show creator Lin-Manuel Miranda, director Thomas Kail and lead producer Jeffrey Seller, with input from the cast members.
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“We, sir — we — are the diverse America who are alarmed and anxious that your new administration will not protect us, our planet, our children, our parents, or defend us and uphold our inalienable rights,” Dixon read. “We truly hope that this show has inspired you to uphold our American values and to work on behalf of all of us.”
Tonight, VP-Elect Mike Pence attended #HamiltonBway. After the show, @BrandonVDixon delivered the following statement on behalf of the show. pic.twitter.com/Jsg9Q1pMZs
— Hamilton (@HamiltonMusical) November 19, 2016
The statement was met with applause and cheers from the audience. It’s important to note that the cast of Hamilton very vocally supported Hillary Clinton, even hosting a special performance to raise money for her.
While Pence did not respond to the statement, Trump voiced his unhappiness.
Our wonderful future V.P. Mike Pence was harassed last night at the theater by the cast of Hamilton, cameras blazing.This should not happen!
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) November 19, 2016
The Theater must always be a safe and special place.The cast of Hamilton was very rude last night to a very good man, Mike Pence. Apologize!
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) November 19, 2016
Dixon quickly responded to Trump with a message of his own.
conversation is not harassment sir. And I appreciate @mike_pence for stopping to listen.
— Brandon Victor Dixon (@BrandonVDixon) November 19, 2016
I am personally horrified that our president-elect isn’t more willing to hear the voice of the people. People are nervous about his presidency. People are scared that a man who has insulted minorities and women without a filter is about to run our nation. And, rather than assuaging their concerns, Trump is criticizing those who would let their voices be heard. A leader should not turn a blind eye to cries for equality. He shouldn’t demand an apology from those admitting they fear for this nation. A president should understand that a house divided cannot stand, and he should work to mend the fractures.
Unfortunately, I have yet to see that from Trump. And it makes me sad. It makes me nervous.
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All Trump and Pence had to do was respond with something like, “We know you’re scared. We know you’re nervous. We’re committed to bringing the country together again.”
I wasn’t a Trump supporter during the election, but after he was elected, I was open-minded about giving him a chance. I’m still trying to be, but incidents like this are becoming a pattern and are slowly but surely crushing my hope.
Trump needs to learn how to be an inspiring leader, and he needs to learn it fast.
Do you think Donald Trump made the wrong move in responding to the Hamilton cast’s message for Mike Pence?
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