Mike Sington, a former executive at NBC Universal, sparked intense online debate over his remarks about Barron Trump, the son of former President Donald Trump, becoming “fair game” upon turning 18.
Barron Trump celebrated his 18th birthday on Wednesday. While his elder siblings have been subjected to public scrutiny, largely due to their involvement in politics and business enterprises associated with their father, Barron maintained a low profile during his father’s tenure in the White House.
The controversy began when Mr. Sington tweeted a photo of Donald and Barron Trump with a caption that implied the youngest Trump is now open to public judgment and criticism because of his age. The post, which has since been deleted, read: “Barron Trump turns 18 today. He’s fair game now.”
The post immediately met a wave of criticism from social media users, prompting Mr. Sington to retract his statement and delete the post. Critics of his original message included prominent conservative figures who condemned what they perceived as inappropriate comments.
In response to the uproar, Mr. Sington provided a statement to Newsweek in which he clarified his stance, asserting that he did not aim to provoke harm or malice toward Barron Trump or any individual.
“I posted he was ‘fair game’ now, meaning, as an adult, he’s ‘fair game’ for criticism from the press,” he said. “Someone pointed out to me ‘fair game’ could mean fair game to be harmed. I don’t wish physical harm on anyone, so I took it down. I listen to the comments and criticism I receive.”
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