If you have access (directly or through a friend) to the online NY Times, I recommend reading Thomas Edsall’s essay from January 13, 2026 “Trump Unmasked.” It’s a terrific and well researched summary of Trump’s psychopathology with references to the dark triad of narcissism, Machiavellianism, and psychopathology — which have particularly surfaced with his ascension to power. His malignant narcissism manifests as poor judgment, lack of inhibition, a total lack of empathy, as well as feelings of omnipotence and a desire to aggressively dominate, aided by a bullying personality. These conditions cause him to never apologize, and show up in escalating displays of dominance, a lack of morality, and a need for never-ending praise which is rarely justified. His “weave” is just word salad, the raving of a disturbed and chaotic mind. As a physician, I say these are legitimate observations and diagnoses, much to my dismay. Read the essay.
Norman Epstein
Midtown
Disclaimer: As submitted to the Arizona Daily Star.
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