It takes an impressive level of narcissism to make something as tragic as a school shooting all about you.
As part of his duties as governor of Texas, Greg Abbott held a press conference immediately after the atrocity on Tuesday at Robb Elementary school in Uvalde, Texas. It was a solemn moment for the state and the nation — a moment to put aside political differences, clearly establish the facts, and spare a thought for the victims’ families.
“All Texans must come together and support the families who have been affected by this horrific tragedy,” Abbot said.
But Beto O’Rourke, Texas’s Democratic gubernatorial nominee, couldn’t pass up the chance to score a point against his Republican rival. He made his way to the front (of course) and instigated a loud confrontation with Abbott on gun control.
There was no reason, other than a self-serving publicity stunt, for O’Rourke to pick that moment to make that point. In doing so, he succeeded in making himself the story.
Meghan Markle also couldn’t resist the opportunity. Accompanied by her famous bodyguard (who used to work for Michael Jackson), she visited the memorial to the victims at Robb Elementary School, gazed at the crosses, laid a bouquet of white roses, and just happened to be caught doing so on camera.