Trump’s ‘Two Weeks’ Promise Mocked Again

Donald Trump is facing renewed criticism for repeatedly promising action “in two weeks,” a timeline observers say has become a running joke synonymous with delayed or broken promises. The latest instance arose Thursday when his press secretary stated he would decide on a course of action regarding the Iran-Israel conflict within that timeframe.

This isn’t a new pattern. Trump first floated the “two weeks” timeline at the end of April, and has repeatedly reset the clock since then, offering the same timeframe to reporters while ultimately failing to deliver. On multiple occasions, he extended the deadline further, promising updates “in a week” or “in a few days.”

The repeated use of the phrase has drawn comparisons to the 1986 film “The Money Pit,” where perpetually delayed home renovations were consistently promised to be completed “in two weeks.” Critics argue Trump has adopted this as a rhetorical tactic, creating an expectation he rarely meets.

The history of these promises extends back years. In 2017, he vowed to unveil a “phenomenal” tax and aviation infrastructure plan “over the next two or three weeks,” but delivered only a one-page document. His much-touted infrastructure plan never materialized, ultimately being eclipsed by President Joe Biden’s landmark package.

Observers have been quick to point out this pattern. Legal analyst Jas Easterly quipped that “two weeks is where promises go to die in Trumpland.” A 2020 Politifact report highlighted five promises of an Obamacare replacement plan, all similarly slated for release “in a few weeks.” Americans are still waiting for that plan.

The phrase has become a shorthand for inaction, with some, like former Rep. Adam Kinzinger, sarcastically referencing it in connection to delayed sanctions on Russia. A recurring joke among Trump critics, “Taco” – an acronym for “Trump always chickens out” – has also resurfaced.

The consistent use of this timeframe, while seemingly innocuous, raises questions about the seriousness with which Trump approaches commitments and the transparency of his administration. It’s a pattern that has eroded trust and fueled cynicism among observers and the public alike, turning a simple phrase into a symbol of unfulfilled promises.