President Trump has upped his disdain for House Intelligence Committee Chairman Adam Schiff, D-Calif., spending the last week calling him “pencil-neck Adam Schiff.”
The colorful phrase first started being used to mean “weak” in the 19th century but was popularized in the 20th century thanks to an unusual figure: wrestler “Classy” Freddie Blassie.
The famous wrestling villain from the 1960s and 1970s adopted the description as part of his signature catchphrase “pencil-neck geek” early in his career, when his rival was a wrestler known as “The Geek.” Blassie even later turned it into a novelty song.
It’s no secret that Trump has long had an affection for professional wrestling. World Wrestling Entertainment Inc., for example, inducted Trump into its Hall of Fame in 2013 for his contribution to the industry, as Trump has had a media relationship with the company since the inception of “Hulkamania” in the 1980s. Trump has even made some appearances as a guest wrestler, taking on others in the ring in full suit and tie.
Trump also chose former WWE executive Linda McMahon to head the Small Business Administration, a position she announced Friday she will step down from in April.
His campaign has even launched a new line of merchandise using the phrase.
Little Pencil-Neck Adam Schiff
He spent two years knowingly and unlawfully lying and leaking. He should be forced to resign from Congress!
Everyone should buy a Pencil-Neck Adam Schiff shirt today!
BUY Now: https://t.co/5SMsrJC8nU pic.twitter.com/v3Vvmma0e6
— Official Team Trump (@TeamTrump) March 29, 2019
