HN didn't fall victim to the reality tv star's antics. The audience he's trying to impress has fallen victim to the believe that the antics of a reality tv star make for a good president.
e.g.
https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=43198759
https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=43121467
https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=43110333