In 2016, when Donald Trump was elected as the 45th President of the United States, many were shocked and confused. How could a man with no political experience and a history of controversial statements and actions win the highest office in the country? Some argued that it was due to economic anxiety, as Trump promised to bring back jobs and revive the struggling economy. However, as his presidency has unfolded, it has become clear that his popularity with his base is not rooted in economic concerns, but rather in issues of race and demographics.
From the very beginning of his campaign, Trump made it clear that he was not afraid to use race as a tool to rally his supporters. He launched his campaign by calling Mexican immigrants “rapists” and “criminals”, and promised to build a wall along the southern border to keep them out. This rhetoric appealed to a certain segment of the population who felt threatened by the changing demographics of the country. As the country becomes more diverse, with the white population projected to become a minority by 2045, Trump’s message of “Make America Great Again” resonated with those who longed for a return to a time when white people held the majority and had more power.
But it’s not just about race, it’s also about fear. Trump’s base is made up of mostly white, working-class Americans who feel left behind by the changing economy and the shifting cultural landscape. They see their jobs being taken by immigrants and their way of life being threatened by progressive values. Trump tapped into this fear and promised to protect their interests and bring back the “good old days”. This fear was further stoked by Trump’s constant demonization of the “other” – whether it be immigrants, Muslims, or people of color. By creating an “us vs. them” mentality, Trump was able to galvanize his base and keep them loyal to him.
But perhaps the most significant factor in Trump’s popularity with his base is the issue of white supremacy. While Trump may not openly identify as a white supremacist, his actions and words have emboldened and empowered those who do. From his refusal to condemn white supremacists after the Charlottesville rally to his Muslim ban and family separation policy at the border, Trump has consistently shown a disregard for the rights and dignity of people of color. This has given white supremacists a sense of legitimacy and validation, and they have become more vocal and visible in their support for Trump.
It’s important to note that Trump’s appeal to racism and white supremacy is not a new phenomenon in American politics. Throughout history, politicians have used race as a tool to gain power and maintain control. But what sets Trump apart is his brazenness and lack of shame in doing so. He has shattered the norms of political correctness and has given his supporters permission to openly express their racist views. This has created a dangerous and toxic environment where hate crimes have increased and marginalized communities feel under attack.
So why does this matter? It matters because Trump’s popularity with his base has real-life consequences. It has led to policies that are harmful to people of color, immigrants, and other marginalized groups. It has also divided the country and created a toxic political climate where hate and division are the norm. And perhaps most importantly, it has exposed the deep-rooted issues of racism and white supremacy that still exist in our society.
In conclusion, it’s clear that Trump’s popularity with his base is not about economic anxiety, as many claimed in 2016. It’s about race and demographics. Trump’s rhetoric and policies have tapped into the fears and prejudices of a certain segment of the population, and he has used this to his advantage. But as we move forward, it’s important to recognize and address these issues of racism and white supremacy in order to create a more inclusive and just society for all. Only then can we truly move towards a better and brighter future for America.
