What is Trump's deal with QAnon?
QAnon is a conspiracy theory that emerged in 2017, with its roots in online message boards like 4chan. Followers believe that a secret cabal of Satan-worshipping pedophiles controls global events, and that Donald Trump is the hero destined to defeat them. The movement’s theories are largely baseless, but they have gained significant traction, especially within certain right-wing circles. One of QAnon's central beliefs is that Trump is waging a hidden battle against this “deep state,” a shadowy group they claim controls politics and the media.
Trump’s relationship with QAnon has been marked by ambiguity. While he has never explicitly endorsed the movement, he has been accused of giving it unofficial nods, much like his controversial handling of white supremacist groups. For example, Trump has retweeted QAnon-related content more than 200 times during his presidency. He has also praised QAnon supporters, stating, “I don’t know much about the movement, other than I understand they like me very much, which I appreciate.”
Similar to his reluctance to directly condemn white supremacist groups like the Proud Boys — famously telling them to "stand back and stand by" during a 2020 debate — Trump has avoided denouncing QAnon outright. His refusal to distance himself from these fringe groups has emboldened their followers. After Trump’s remarks, QAnon adherents were quick to frame them as tacit approval, interpreting them as signals that they are part of a larger plan. Trump’s subtle acknowledgments fuel their belief that they are connected to a broader political cause, despite its detachment from reality.
The Atlantic, The New York Times, BBC News, NPR, Southern Poverty Law Center.
