The Brian Lehrer Show When Politicians Curse
Jan 16, 2026
Tom Nichols, professor emeritus of national security affairs and Atlantic contributor, dives into the rising trend of politicians using profanity in public discourse. He examines Donald Trump's unique vulgarity and its influence on political behavior. The discussion includes when swearing may be appropriate and the implications for role modeling in leadership, especially for children. Nichols also highlights how context matters in profane speech and the media's responsibility to present such remarks without censorship.
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Trump Normalized Presidential Profanity
- Donald Trump treats profanity as part of his public persona and often uses it deliberately to flout norms.
- Tom Nichols argues this breaks presidential decorum and harms public discourse by lowering standards.
Personal Swearing, Public Restraint
- Tom Nichols admits he swears in private, growing up in a working-class factory town.
- He still believes public officials should avoid profanity for the good of national discourse.
Don't Swear To Seem Relatable
- Avoid using profanity to mimic authenticity; it often comes off as crass and awkward.
- Nichols advises politicians to model better behavior and swear less in public life.