. . . but now it is fashionable to simply use this as a reason to not attempt any responses or to insinuate some connection to Trump (as if there weren't enough reasons used already).

You will note when the tactic is used on me (like in the thread below) I respond to the post . . . and not simply say "whataboutism" as if I've slapped the Rook down on the table.  I've noticed that those claiming "whataboutism" are as likely to use the tactic as those that don't give a #badword#.

Another technique to pretend that you are engaged in a dialogue from the comfort of your own echo chamber.