What Trump is trying to do is cast doubt on the validity of the opinions of informed elites who (in the immortal words of George Wallace: "pointy headed intellectuals who can't park their bicycles straight when they get to campus") are burdened with excess information but have no common sense. This is a common dodge of propagandists who feel the need to discredit the positions of experts when it conflicts with their (the propagandists) easy solutions to complex problems.

In this example, Trump is contrasting the helpless ignorance of scientists (compared to the honest, simple logic of his followers) who have never even considered the obvious conundrum presented by a choice with no solution. In other words, his MIT experts have never even thought what to do when faced between two equally difficult alternatives (getting electrocuted or being eaten). Choosing between shark and shock may be an awkward dichotomy, but it was the only example which popped into his mind. The real point is, "Don't listen to intellectuals or smart people. They are all effeminate, subversive, conceited and arrogant, and probably wrong." It plays right into some basic American cultural traits, particularly its toxic anti-intellectual streak.

This may be a result of Trump's advancing years. I am almost Trump's age and I often catch myself doing the same thing. The difference between him and me is that somewhere in the back of my mind a little voice pops up and warns me (more often than not); "Hey, that doesn't make sense, either revise your premise or find a more appropriate comparison to make your point."

I don't know if its his age, his intrinsic stupidity, or some mental or physical infirmity that makes him do this; but the point is his psyche lacks that "little voice" to keep his ramblings on track. Or worse, maybe he's well aware of what he's doing but doesn't care because he realizes his intended audience is too fucking dumb to know the difference.

Which once again highlights the truly terrifying aspect of the contemporary American political situation. Its not that Trump is stupid and mean. Or even that many of his followers mistake stupid and mean for determined and courageous. That can happen anywhere, or any time, or in any political ideology. What fills me with despair is how many of my countrymen do not believe him or his ideology, but will still support him enthusiastically because it furthers their own personal agenda.

"Sure, he's a nutjob, but he will take care of the opposition. Once he's in place we'll be able to control him, or replace him with one of our own."