Donald trump Breaks Tradition at West Point Commencement
On May 25, 2025, former President Donald Trump made headlines by breaking a long-standing tradition at the United States Military Academy’s commencement ceremony in West Point, New York. Unlike his predecessor, President Joe Biden, who stayed to engage with every single graduate during the previous year’s ceremony, Trump departed halfway through the event, omitting the customary handshake with the graduating cadets. This unexpected move has sparked a significant reaction on social media and raised questions about the former president’s relationship with military traditions.
The Significance of Commencement Traditions
Commencement ceremonies are pivotal moments in the lives of graduates, especially at a prestigious institution like West Point. The handshake between the president and the graduates symbolizes respect, recognition, and the passing of the torch from one generation to the next. It is a time-honored tradition that reinforces the bond between the Commander-in-Chief and the future leaders of the armed forces. President Biden’s commitment to shaking hands with over 1,000 graduates in 2024 highlighted his dedication to honoring this tradition and the individuals who serve in the military.
Trump’s Departure Raises Eyebrows
Trump’s early departure from the West Point commencement has not gone unnoticed. Many commentators and social media users have expressed their disbelief and disappointment. The decision to forgo the handshake is seen by some as a lack of respect for the graduates and the military institution itself. The contrast between Trump’s actions and Biden’s engagement has drawn attention to differing leadership styles and priorities.
Trump’s exit from the ceremony also raises questions about his ongoing relationship with the military community. While he has been vocal about his support for the armed forces during his presidency, this incident may lead some to wonder about the sincerity of his commitment, especially among those who view military traditions as essential to the fabric of American democracy.
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Social Media Reactions
The incident quickly became a trending topic on social media platforms, particularly Twitter. Chris D. Jackson, a notable commentator, posted about Trump’s decision, emphasizing the contrast with Biden’s approach to the ceremony. The tweet garnered significant engagement, with users sharing their thoughts on the implications of Trump’s actions. Some users praised Biden for his commitment to tradition, while others criticized Trump for breaking the norm.
The Broader Implications
Trump’s departure from the West Point commencement can be seen as part of a larger trend in American politics, where traditional norms are often challenged or disregarded. This incident may also reflect the polarized nature of contemporary political discourse. As Trump continues to assert his influence within the republican Party, his actions may resonate with his base, who often view him as a figure willing to defy convention. However, for many others, this behavior could alienate potential supporters who value respect for military traditions.
Conclusion
Donald Trump’s decision to leave the West Point commencement ceremony early and skip the traditional handshake with graduates has sparked significant discussion and debate. The contrast with President Biden’s commitment to honoring military traditions underscores the differing leadership styles and priorities of the two former presidents. As the political landscape continues to evolve, incidents like this will likely shape public perceptions of political figures and their relationships with the military community.
In a time when the nation faces numerous challenges, the importance of maintaining respect for traditions and the institutions that uphold democracy cannot be overstated. As we reflect on this event, it serves as a reminder of the values that underpin the fabric of American society and the significance of honoring those who serve.
UNBELIEVABLE: Donald Trump broke tradition today at West Point—leaving halfway through commencement and skipping the time-honored handshake with graduating cadets.
Last year, President Biden stayed to shake the hand of every single one of the 1,000+ graduates.
Because he… pic.twitter.com/OT7rreoSnj
— Chris D. Jackson (@ChrisDJackson) May 25, 2025
UNBELIEVABLE: Donald Trump broke tradition today at West Point—leaving halfway through commencement and skipping the time-honored handshake with graduating cadets.
So, here’s the scoop: Donald Trump made headlines for breaking a tradition at the prestigious West Point Military Academy commencement ceremony. This event is usually a big deal, not just for the graduates but also for the sitting president. The tradition? A heartfelt handshake with each and every graduating cadet. This year, however, Trump decided to leave halfway through the ceremony, skipping this iconic moment. It’s a big departure from what we saw last year when President Biden stayed to greet all of the 1,000+ graduates. You can check out the tweet by Chris D. Jackson that captured this moment [here](https://twitter.com/ChrisDJackson/status/1926459890593063075?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw).
What’s the Big Deal About the Handshake?
The handshake at West Point isn’t just a formality; it symbolizes respect, connection, and acknowledgment of the hard work the cadets have put in. For many graduates, it’s a rite of passage, a moment where they feel recognized by the leader of the country. When a president skips out on this tradition, it raises eyebrows and sparks conversations about the relationship between the military and the presidency.
Traditionally, the president’s presence and participation are seen as a gesture of support for the Armed Forces and the future leaders of the military. For those who have dedicated years to their training, shaking hands with the commander-in-chief is a moment they cherish and remember.
Last Year’s Ceremony: A Contrast to Trump’s Departure
Last year, the atmosphere was entirely different. President Biden made it a point to shake the hands of every single graduate. Imagine over 1,000 cadets lining up, proudly receiving a handshake and a few words of encouragement from the president. It’s a moment that solidifies their achievements and gives them a sense of pride as they step into their roles as officers in the military. Biden’s actions were widely praised, emphasizing the importance of connection and support for the graduates.
This year’s abrupt departure by Trump not only stands in stark contrast to Biden’s approach but also raises questions about priorities and values displayed by different administrations. It’s these small but significant moments that people notice and remember.
Public Reaction to Trump’s Decision
The public reaction to Trump’s decision has been mixed, as you might expect. Some supporters might argue that the president has a busy schedule and that leaving early doesn’t diminish the accomplishments of the graduates. Others, however, see it as a glaring oversight that reflects a lack of respect for military traditions. Social media has been buzzing with opinions, memes, and discussions about what this means for the future of military-civilian relations in the U.S.
Critics are quick to point out that a president’s engagement in such ceremonies fosters a sense of unity and respect between the military and the civilian leadership. When a leader fails to participate in these traditions, it can create a sense of disconnect.
Implications of Breaking Tradition
Breaking traditions, especially at a military academy, can have broader implications. It might seem trivial to some, but these traditions are rooted in history and signify a commitment to the values that the military upholds. When a president deviates from these practices, it can lead to a ripple effect, influencing how future administrations approach their relationship with the military.
Moreover, breaking such traditions can impact the morale of the cadets. These young men and women are stepping into a world where discipline, respect, and duty are paramount. When they see their president, who is supposed to embody these values, leaving abruptly, it can send mixed signals about the importance of these traditions.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Presidential Traditions
As we look ahead, it’s crucial to consider how these traditions will evolve. Will future presidents also choose to break away from established practices, or will they feel compelled to follow in the footsteps of their predecessors? The actions of leaders set precedents, and this event at West Point may become a talking point for future administrations.
One thing is for sure: the relationship between the military and the presidency will always be under scrutiny. Each action, or inaction, taken by a sitting president will be dissected and analyzed, especially when it comes to traditions that carry significant weight.
What Can We Learn from This Event?
Events like this serve as a reminder of the importance of tradition, respect, and connection in leadership. Whether you’re a supporter or a critic of Trump, it’s hard to deny that his departure from the West Point ceremony has sparked a conversation worth having. It raises questions about how we view leadership, respect, and the role of the president in military affairs.
For cadets, this moment is a lesson in resilience. They are entering a field where they will often face challenges and adversities. Learning to navigate these situations, both as leaders and individuals, will be crucial for their development.
Final Thoughts on Tradition and Leadership
Traditions hold a special place in any institution, especially one as storied as West Point. They represent continuity, respect for the past, and a vision for the future. As we reflect on Trump’s actions, it’s essential to consider what it means for the cadets and what it signifies about the direction of military and civilian relations.
Whether you celebrate or criticize the way leaders engage with traditions, there’s no doubt that these moments shape the narrative of leadership in the country. As we move forward, let’s hope that the leaders of tomorrow recognize the importance of honoring those who serve and the traditions that bind us together.
For more coverage on this event and its implications, feel free to explore [CNN’s take](https://www.cnn.com) or [The New York Times](https://www.nytimes.com). These platforms provide in-depth analysis and varied perspectives on the matter.
In the end, it’s about understanding the weight of leadership and the traditions that hold meaning for so many. Whether it’s a handshake or a moment of connection, these are the things that matter in fostering a sense of unity and respect.