In a recent speech to top U.S. military officials in Virginia, War Secretary Pete Hegseth declared the Trump administration’s firm stance against what he called the “woke culture” that has permeated the military. The use of explicit language by high-ranking political figures is becoming more common, reflecting a shift in public discourse. Notably, Trump himself, while toning down his public language over the years, made headlines for dropping an F-bomb during a statement on the Israel/Iran conflict.
Vice-President JD Vance has also been unreserved in his use of profanity, particularly on social media platforms. This evolving trend of political figures using strong language is not unique to one party, as Democrats have also shown a willingness to employ expletives in their public statements.
Experts suggest that this shift towards more confrontational language reflects a desire for change among voters. The normalization of profanity in political discourse has become a strategic element for politicians looking to connect with constituents on a more visceral level. While some view this trend as a genuine expression of frustration, others caution against overusing or forcing such language.
Compared to past administrations, the current political landscape, particularly in the U.S., has seen a notable increase in the public use of profanity by politicians. This shift in communication style is seen as a reflection of broader societal changes and is likely to continue shaping political discourse in the foreseeable future. The Canadian political arena, while not immune to occasional instances of cursing, has not witnessed the same level of planned and intentional use of profanity seen in American politics.
