After only a month since going live, former President Donald Trump has called time on his blog. Trump’s senior aide, Jason Miller said the blog has been shut down and will not be returning.
It was just auxiliary to the broader efforts we have and are working on.
Jason Miller
Trump had embraced social media, particularly Twitter, like no other politician in history. Quickly understanding the value of the platform – it allowed him to engage directly with his supporters.
The platform and his approach were central to his leadership style, with the former President regularly sparking controversy and being accused of spreading disinformation.
His new blog had barely gained any traction in the month since its launch.
No Return
It was unclear exactly why the blog had been closed down so soon after launching. Miller did, however, offer some indication, stating that it had always been auxiliary to other broader efforts that they had been working on.
He stated that it would not be returning!
Social Media Bans
The blog, From the Desk of Donald J Trump, had served to allow the former president to publish his own content, having been previously banned from both Facebook and Twitter.
The bans from Twitter and Facebook came into effect after a mob had broken into the Capital. Trump had been heavily criticized for a series of incendiary tweets that did not seek to immediately calm the unrest.
According to Factba.se, a site that monitors and archives screenshots of Twitter activity, The Donald reportedly had over 88 million followers at an all-time peak on Nov. 17. 2020
What Next?
It was not yet clear what direction the former President’s tech engagement will take. Data compiled by BuzzSumo suggested that his blog had only managed to obtain a fraction of the visitors his Facebook and Twitter pages had.
The reduced levels of engagement were possibly a factor in the decision.
Trump continues to spend his post-presidency life at his Florida home in Mar-a-Lago, the exclusive resort he owns in South Florida.
He is reported to enjoy surprising members and recently attended a wedding where he gave a short speech.
The full nature and extent of his future tech engagement remains to be seen.