Former White House communications director Anthony Scaramucci is urging a confrontational approach to dealing with President Donald Trump, arguing that firm resistance earns respect in political clashes.
Scaramucci Urges Confrontational ‘Elbows Up’ Approach
On Saturday, Scaramucci posted on X with advice for those engaging with Trump, warning against reacting on his terms or responding impulsively.
“Never take the phone call on his terms,” Scaramucci wrote, adding, “Don’t respond when he comes at you.”
He also urged what he described as an “elbows up” posture, saying, “I’m ready for the fight.”
Scaramucci added, “Push and shove with Trump and he respects it. Lay down and kowtow and you’re finished.”
Scaramucci Criticizes Trump, Links Populism To Economic Strain
Earlier, Scaramucci criticized Trump, saying he relied on intimidation, personal insecurity, and populist instincts rather than genuine public support to maintain political influence.
He said that “Nobody really liked Donald Trump,” while acknowledging his strengths as “powerful, effective, charismatic in his way.”
He also said Trump used “narcissism and bullying” to rise politically and reacted aggressively to criticism due to insecurity.
Scaramucci separately argued that Trump is “a symptom, not the disease,” saying broader economic pressures such as high housing costs and stagnant wages were fueling populism beyond any single leader.
He noted that the median U.S. home cost about $430,000, requiring roughly $150,000 in income for affordability.
Scaramucci also urged people to reject victimhood and recover quickly from setbacks, referencing his brief 11-day tenure in the Trump White House as evidence that failure should not define a career.
He said people should “get up, dust yourself off” and move forward instead of dwelling on mistakes.
Disclaimer: This content was partially produced with the help of AI tools and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.
Photo courtesy: Al Teich / Shutterstock.com
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