Arizona Senator Proposes State-Funded Study of “Trump Derangement Syndrome”
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Arizona residents may soon be funding a study into a phenomenon critics dismiss as a political rhetorical device. A bill filed by state Senator Janae Shamp proposes directing the Arizona Department of Health Services to research “Trump Derangement Syndrome,” sparking outrage and ridicule from opponents who call it a blatant waste of taxpayer money.
The term “Trump Derangement Syndrome” has become a common refrain among supporters of former President Donald Trump, used to discredit any criticism leveled against him. One observer noted the phrase is often a signal that further conversation will be unproductive. The proposed study, however, would elevate the concept from political jab to official state inquiry.
Bill Details and Potential Costs
Introduced on Monday ahead of the 2026 legislative session, Senate Bill 1070 – a number deliberately echoing Arizona’s controversial 2010 immigration law, SB 1070, known as the “show me your papers” law – mandates that the Arizona Department of Health Services “advance the understanding of Trump Derangement Syndrome, including its origins, manifestations and long-term effects on individuals, communities and public discourse.” The bill also calls for identifying early cases and analyzing the role of political polarization. The department would be required to present its findings or an update within one year.
Critics are lambasting the proposal as a performative gesture designed to appeal to the former President’s base. Some have labeled it a “statement bill,” while others suggest it’s a career move for Shamp. “It’s a giant waste of fucking time, money, and resources that are provided by the people of Arizona,” one source stated bluntly.
A Definition Open to Interpretation
The bill’s definition of “Trump Derangement Syndrome” is remarkably broad, defining it as “a behavioral or psychological phenomenon that is characterized by intense emotional or psychological reactions to Donald Trump, his actions or his public presence as observed in individuals or groups.”
This expansive definition has led to the observation that it could equally apply to the fervent support exhibited by Trump’s most ardent followers. “Perhaps right-wingers like Shamp and Wendy Rogers, who often fawn over Trump, should be in padded cells,” one commentator quipped, highlighting the potential for ironic application of the proposed research.
Veto Looming, But a Desire for Exposure
Despite the widespread criticism, some are hoping the bill will pass, despite the near certainty of a veto from Democratic Governor Katie Hobbs. The rationale is that allowing the bill to become law, even temporarily, would expose the absurdity of the endeavor. “Put this bullshit on full display. Make a circus of it. Show in painful detail exactly how some lawmakers in the Trump cult want to use your money for this nonsense,” one source argued. “Then come back to me and tell me once more about the party of limited government and fiscal responsibility.”
Alternatively, the bill could be strategically amended to satirize the concept, turning the inquiry on its head. However, many believe the entire premise is fundamentally flawed. “Perhaps we can all agree that this is stupid, that spending any calories studying a made up affliction that has no basis in reality is silly, and that there are obviously some members of state government who are past their expiration date.”
Filed Under: arizona, janae shamp, trump derangement syndrome
