Supporters of the QAnon conspiracy theory claimed that a video of President Donald Trump admitting his presidency is ending is actually a sign that he will stay in office. In reality, it’s more of a sign that the community is dedicated to its delusion of a Trump second term in office regardless of the facts.
After months of pushing false voter fraud claims that helped incite a mob to storm the U.S. Capitol, Trump released a video on January 7 in which he said that his campaign had pursued “every legal avenue” to overturn the election result, but “a new administration will be inaugurated on January 20.” He also said, “My focus now turns to ensuring a smooth, orderly and seamless transition of power” and concluded, “To all of my wonderful supporters, I know you are disappointed. But I also want you to know that our incredible journey is only just beginning.”
After Trump’s remarks, QAnon supporters with major followings on social media platforms earned thousands of engagements claiming that Trump’s video gave signals that he’s actually going to stay in office -- even though Congress has certified President-elect Joe Biden’s election. Some claimed that he did not explicitly concede and that because he did not mention Biden by name, his reference to the “new administration” could mean himself and possibly former national security adviser Michael Flynn as vice president. They also claimed that Trump may issue “executive orders” or use illegal means to stay in office.
Some QAnon accounts also pointed to Trump’s statement in which he said “our incredible journey is only just beginning” as evidence he will not leave office.
Since the election, QAnon supporters have denied Biden’s victory at nearly every step of the way. They’ve played a significant role in spreading the voter fraud claims that influenced Trump’s grievances and led to the Capitol mob -- which itself included QAnon supporters. And now, even with Trump basically admitting defeat, QAnon supporters have made clear they will not accept reality -- and it’s not clear how they’ll react when the reality of a Biden presidency arrives on January 20.
