Sacha Baron Cohen has offered a surprising view of Donald Trump despite his criticism of the president. The actor says he thinks more people should pay attention to Trump’s political strength than his critics have. He also sees a reason behind the president’s lasting appeal. His comments have sparked fresh discussion about Trump’s public image.
Sacha Baron Cohen says Donald Trump’s political appeal has been underestimated
During an appearance on the “Happy Sad Confused” podcast, Baron Cohen questioned how people had underestimated Trump. “How has he survived a second term? People underestimated him,” the actor said. He argued that Trump has “elements of brilliance” that help explain his political success. Baron Cohen also said people made a mistake by dismissing him as “a nincompoop.”
The Borat star said Trump’s appeal helps explain his continued power. “There are elements of brilliance to him,” he explained. Baron Cohen pointed to Trump’s second term and his ability to transform the country. He did not label those changes good or bad, saying, “I won’t say positively or negatively.”
Baron Cohen’s view also draws on his own meeting with Trump in 2003. He interviewed the future president while playing Ali G on Da Ali G Show. The actor said Trump initially seemed impressed by director James Bobin. However, Baron Cohen recalled that Trump’s mood changed “immediately” when he realized Ali G would interview him.
Baron Cohen later heard about Trump’s reaction from a woman who rode in the car with him after the interview. “He was apparently furious,” the comedian recalled. He said Trump publicly criticized him a few times afterward. Baron Cohen then leveraged those clips for a different show, making Trump’s anger for free advertising.
Baron Cohen’s remarks show that he sees Trump’s appeal as more than just political luck. Despite his criticism of the president, he believes people should not underestimate the skills that keep Trump influential.
