‘You Wouldn’t Believe How Many Countries There Are’: Trump’s Remarks Leave Critics Stunned
Donald Trump held a campaign rally at the Lancaster Airport located in Lititz, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images)
During a press conference on Monday, President-elect Donald Trump made a series of eyebrow-raising comments, sparking amusement and sharp criticism among viewers and commentators alike. While addressing his post-election communications with world leaders, Trump appeared astonished by the sheer number of countries in existence.
“I’ve spoken to way over 100 people, where they called to congratulate not only the election but also the size of the election and the extent of the victory,” Trump said. “They were great. I spoke to over 100 countries.”
He then added with surprise: “You wouldn’t believe how many countries there are. I’m trying the best I can to get back to everybody. There are a lot of countries. Literally, everyone called. It was very nice.” The off-the-cuff remark quickly became a focal point of both ridicule and frustration across social media.
Commentators criticized Trump’s apparent lack of awareness about global affairs and basic diplomacy. Former White House Global Engagement Director Brett Bruen noted, “Actually, diplomats do,” in response to Trump’s astonishment at the number of countries.
Trump also faced questions about invitations for his upcoming inauguration on January 20. Specifically, he was asked about reports that Chinese President Xi Jinping had been invited to attend. Trump’s response was characteristically vague: “People are saying he won’t come, and people think he will come, but won’t come. It’s something we barely discussed.
I just about didn’t discuss it. But I have had, especially through letters, very good conversations.” The mixed messaging and casual tone drew further scrutiny from critics. Former CUNY professor and “This Week in Google” podcast host Jeff Jarvis didn’t hold back, reacting with a blunt remark: “The idiot you elected, America.”
"You wouldn't believe how many countries there are… There are a lot of countries." — the idiot you elected, America.
— Jeff (Gutenberg Parenthesis) Jarvis (@jeffjarvis.bsky.social) December 16, 2024 at 10:06 PM
Meanwhile, Randi Mayem Singer, screenwriter of Mrs. Doubtfire, expressed her frustration in no uncertain terms. “F–k every American who voted for this MORON and every billionaire, news outlet, or elected official right now gently licking his diseased and demented a-s,” she posted on Blue Sky.
"You wouldn't believe how many countries there are. There are a lot of countries." Fuck every American who voted for this MORON and every billionaire, news outlet or elected official right now gently licking his diseased and demented ass.
— Randi Mayem Singer (@rmayemsinger.bsky.social) December 16, 2024 at 10:25 PM
The reactions highlight growing concerns about Trump’s perceived lack of preparedness for the presidency and his understanding of international affairs. While Trump’s comment about countries may have struck some as humorous, for others, it underscored a deeper unease about the state of U.S. leadership on the global stage. With Trump’s inauguration fast approaching, critics remain watchful as his public statements continue to fuel both amusement and apprehension.
