Can Trump's Style of Speech Work in His Favor to Unite Country in Inaugural Address?
Neurolinguistic experts tell NBC News Trump’s style may have the persuasive ability to bring Americans together
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On Friday, Donald Trump will deliver his highly anticipated inaugural address, likely one of the most important speeches of his life so far. In order to make it a compelling and convincing message, he will have to rely on the very thing that has turned his opponents away from him: his unique way with words.
Neurolinguistic experts tell NBC News Trump’s style may have the persuasive ability to bring Americans together. He appeals to feelings and emotions, and he meanders between thoughts, allowing listeners to fill in the gaps as they choose.
Theodore Roosevelt's 1905 inauguration marks the first time the Secret Service was used primarily for presidential protection instead of general security following the assassination of William McKinley in September of 1901.
The Library of Congress
William Taft is taken from the U.S. Capitol to the White House in his 1909 inauguration next to his wife, Helen "Nellie" Taft.
The Library of Congress
Warren Harding is seen in his presidential inaugural motorcade in 1921. Harding was the first president to ride a car instead of a horse-drawn carriage for his inauguration, riding in a 1921 Packard Twin Six provided by the Republican National Committee.
Dwight D. Eisenhower is seen in a 1953 Cadillac Eldorado at his 1953 inauguration procession.
John F. Kennedy rode a 1950 Lincoln Cosmopolitan for his 1961 presidential inauguration.
U.S. Army
The 1961 Lincoln Parade limousine that Lyndon B. Johnson used for his 1965 inaugural procession originally debuted with President John F. Kennedy within the first year of his presidency. The limo contained seats that could be raised to give crowds a better look at its occupants.
Secret Service agents guard the 1968 Lincoln Continental Executive limousine used by Richard Nixon on his first presidential inauguration in 1969.
U.S. Secret Service
Ronald Reagan, along with his wife Nancy Reagan, waves to the crowd from the Lincoln Parade limousine during his 1981 presidential inauguration. The Lincoln, first used by President Richard Nixon during his 1973 inauguration, was sent back to the Ford Motor company for refurbishing after a failed assassination attempt on Reagan on March 30, 1981.
The 1989 Lincoln Town Car Limousine, built by the Ford Motor Company, debuted during George H.W. Bush's first presidential inauguration in 1989.
The Secret Service watches over Bill Clinton's 1993 inaugural procession.
U.S. Secret Service
President Bill Clinton and first lady Hillary Clinton is seen at Clinton's second presidential inauguration on 1997 in Washington, D.C.
The 2001 Cadillac DeVille Limousine used for George W. Bush's 2001 presidential inauguration was the first limousine to be custom built for the U.S. Secret Service.
Secret Service agents follow the 2006 Cadillac DeVille Touring Sedan carrying President George W. Bush for his second presidential inauguration on Jan. 20, 2005.
President Barack Obama's first presidential inauguration was marked by the 2009 Cadillac DeVille Touring Sedan presidential limousine, designed to Secret Service specifications over a five-year period.
U.S. Secret Service
President Barack Obama and first lady Michelle Obama attend the Obamas' second inaugural procession on Jan. 20, 2013.
But, just as effectively, he uses uncomplicated messages, such as “make America great again” and “crooked Hillary.” Regardless of their veracity, they stick in people’s minds because of their simplicity. If he keeps saying it, one neuroscience professor said, “it becomes it.” That type of language is powerful, even more so when paired with negative ideas.
One thing Trump will need to do Friday morning, something he has yet to do, is speak in greater detail. That will help him to bring in a wider audience as he takes on his official leadership role.
