The Impact of Nicknames in Politics
Nicknames can have a lasting influence, often outliving the individuals they describe. Think of Vlad the Impaler—or Charles the Bald. And who could forget Bill Clinton being referred to as America’s first black president? It’s clear that Democrats understand the weight that a well-crafted nickname can carry, but they seem to struggle with their execution.
Recently, the Democratic National Committee (DNC) released a statement that somewhat awkwardly stated, “I avoid Doodle Don.” The “doodle” in this context is linked to a Wall Street Journal report that features a dubious depiction of President Donald Trump. According to this report, Trump allegedly sent a suggestive birthday letter to Jeffrey Epstein back in 2003, accompanied by questionable hand-drawn outlines. In response, Trump insisted on Truth Social that the Wall Street Journal had published a “fake letter,” dismissing the entire affair.
While the legitimacy of this letter is certainly worth debating, it’s also important to consider the implications of nicknames. They often rely on alliances, which adds complexity. For example, terms like “Putin’s Doll” haven’t exactly stuck to Trump, yet they show the game at play—though they rely on more than just a catchy phrase. Nobody wants to be overshadowed by that image, especially not a seasoned Democrat.
Trump tends to downplay the nicknames thrown his way. Some of the more memorable include Cheat Donald and Crybaby Donald. -R
– Ralph Nader (@ralphnader) October 11, 2017
With an awareness that nicknames can stick, Trump’s advisors are apparently searching for something suitable to label Kamala Harris. One of Trump’s favorites? Crazy Kamala. Surprising secrets, indeed. -R
– Ralph Nader (@ralphnader) August 13, 2024
For years, Ralph Nader has sought to give Trump a nickname, mulling it over since 2017 when he claimed to renounce all other “Donalds.” He resurfaced his musings in 2024, dubbing him “The Law Violator Don.”
Interestingly, some Democrats have also engaged in nickname creativity. They suggested one for Trump, proposing “Trump Always Kicks Out Chickens,” also known as “Tacos.” A Reddit user claimed that this nickname “Will Stick!!!” Others have weighed in, noting that tacos symbolize inferior fast food in American culture. It raises questions about cultural sensitivity, too—after all, aren’t tacos originally from Mexico?
If they can’t find anything else, some go to an extreme: calling Trump “aspiring Hitler.” Texas Democrat Jasmine Crockett used that label on MSNBC, while Al Gore took a more historical angle, drawing a parallel between Trump’s administration and Hitler’s Third Reich. It’s a contentious claim, one that often surfaces in media discussions.
During an MSNBC segment, Rep. Jasmine Crockett referred to Trump as “aspiring Hitler,” and the host moved on without objection, reflecting the complex conversation surrounding this issue. – Tim Graham (@timjgraham) July 20, 2025
It seems Democrats are throwing ideas at the wall to see what sticks, perhaps hoping to glean some lessons from Trump on how to make their names more impactful. Maybe they need to consider a more playful approach when crafting these labels, rather than trying to evoke disgust.
Despite their efforts, the Democratic party still feels rather subdued in comparison to Trump’s free-wheeling style. His ability to conjure nicknames often seems effortless, drawing attention and sometimes even applause. Names like “Little Marco” for one-time rival Marco Rubio have stuck. The advice for Democrats? Perhaps they should aim for something a bit smaller but with a sharper punch.
