The phrase refers to images and memes that depict the former U.S. president holding or using a Thompson submachine gun, often known as a “tommy gun.” These depictions are typically digitally created or manipulated. An example is a photograph of the former president altered to show him holding the firearm in a manner reminiscent of gangsters from the Prohibition era.
The popularity of such images stems from their use as political commentary and satire. They often serve to convey a message, either supportive or critical, of the former president’s policies, persona, or rhetoric. The historical association of the “tommy gun” with organized crime and power further adds to the visual metaphor, highlighting themes of authority, potential aggression, and a rebellious stance against established norms.
