Epilogue

Abstract

This chapter updates several of the key themes addressed in the book by considering the events of 2020, including the COVID-19 pandemic, the Black Lives Matter movement, and the presidential election. We discuss how the three contexts central to the ubiquitous presidency—accessibility, personalization, and pluralism—shaped responses to these events. Accessibility was present in President Trump’s frantic communication efforts during the pandemic, as well as in the efforts of other public figures. Personalization was present in the messaging and lifestyle changes necessitated by the pandemic. Pluralism was present in responses to systemic racism and police violence called out by the Black Lives Matter movement.