According to a Media | The Guardian piece, Donald Trump—currently serving as the U.S. president—has begun to function as a “commentator‑in‑chief” when faced with thorny issues. The article notes that he routinely assigns motives, identifies heroes and villains, and directs how his audience should think about a topic.
The Guardian article, originally published in the weekly column *This Week in Trumpland*, describes Trump’s dual role: while he retains the constitutional powers of a president—such as vetoing bills and granting pardons—he also speaks directly to the public from the commentator’s seat. Trump is said to insist on performing both duties at the same time, blurring the line between elected office and media presence.
Politicians have long moved from office to the commentary box after their terms end, but Trump’s simultaneous use of executive authority and media commentary is uncommon for a sitting president. The Guardian’s analysis frames this as a new way for Trump to shape national discourse.