Donald Trump held a “town hall” on Thursday’s episode of Today, and his strategy has changed, folks. This pivot was evident during his New York victory speech where “Lyin’ Ted” never dropped out of his mouth. Instead, he calmly referred to his competitors as “Senator Cruz” and “Governor Kasich.” This could be a kinder, gentler Trump, who’s receiving advice to capture the swing vote after taking his home state. This could also be a terrible risk to take because Trump generally succeeds upon his own outrageous behavior. If the guy marginalizes his extremist supporters with more progressive views, and those who he aims to capture don’t buy the act, this could signal trouble for an already disorganized campaign.
Matt Lauer asked Trump about the wave of anti-LGBT laws sweeping the country. Specifically, the subject was the North Carolina bathroom bill and subsequent “clarification” after pressure from the public and business boycotts. Trump took a reasonable perspective:
“North Carolina did something that was very strong. And they’re paying a big price. There’s a lot of problems. Leave it the way it is. What they’re going through with all the business that’s leaving, all of the strife — and this is on both sides. There have been very few complaints the way it is. People go. They use the bathroom that they feel is appropriate. There has been so little trouble. And the problem with what happened in North Carolina is the strife and the economic — I mean, the economic punishment that they’re taking.”
Well, Trump’s speaking from a business perspective here, but he’s still softened his stance for a guy who’s grossed out about bathroom talk in general. He also spoke in the above video about raising taxes on the wealthy and making abortion exceptions. Aaaand then he forgot about the new character he was playing and spoke about the Harriet Tubman currency announcement. He’s not sure why Andrew Jackson will get the boot:
“Andrew Jackson had a really great history, and I think it’s rough when you take someone off the bill. Andrew Jackson had a history of tremendous success for the country.”
Trump either hasn’t heard about the sordid side of Jackson’s legacy, or he doesn’t care. Here’s that clip, too.
All of Trump’s adult children and his wife, Melania, also put on a solid showing by singing his praises on the show.