WHY DONALD TRUMP?

Understanding Why a Plurality or Majority of Adults Would Choose Donald Trump as Their Leader

Many of us find it difficult to grasp how Donald Trump, a man with a history of lying, narcissism, and disregard for democratic principles, could capture the support of such a significant portion of the American populace. Yet his rise and continued popularity reveal more profound truths about human behavior, societal divides, and American politics.

At its core, Trump's appeal taps into several psychological and cultural factors that resonate with various demographics, many of which feel disillusioned, angry, or left behind by the political system.

1. Disillusionment with Establishment Politics

For years, Americans have watched as political promises went unfulfilled. The middle class has shrunk, wealth inequality has skyrocketed, and traditional politicians have often seemed out of touch with the struggles of everyday people. This widespread disillusionment created fertile ground for a candidate like Trump, who presented himself as an outsider willing to take on the "swamp" of Washington. His brash style and disregard for political norms became appealing precisely because it differed from the typical polished yet ineffective rhetoric many had grown tired of hearing.

2. The Cultivation of Fear and Anger

Trump’s success is, in part, built on fear. Throughout his campaigns, he has skillfully tapped into and amplified anxieties about immigration, crime, and economic displacement. By framing complex problems as direct threats to individual safety and identity, he has fostered a sense of urgency and danger among his supporters. People who feel economically, socially, or culturally vulnerable are more likely to support a figure who promises to protect them from these perceived threats, regardless of the facts. Trump’s appeal thrives in a climate of fear, where his supporters believe he alone can safeguard them.

3. The Power of Charisma and Populism

Populism has a long history of influencing democratic societies, and Trump fits the mold of a classic populist leader. He speaks directly to the people in a way that resonates with their frustrations. His rallies are less about policy and more about connection—he is an entertainer, a larger-than-life figure who seems to embody strength and defiance. Charisma often matters more than competence in leadership selection, and Trump, with his bombastic style, projects the image of a strong, decisive leader.

For many, his lack of adherence to established norms is not a flaw but a feature. His disregard for convention is refreshing and honest in a world where many feel their voices are silenced. This is especially true for those who feel left out by the political elite or dismissed by the "educated class." His simple, repetitive slogans cut through the noise and stick with voters in ways nuanced arguments from traditional politicians fail to do.

4. Economic Desperation and False Promises

Despite his wealth, Trump has successfully portrayed himself as a champion of the working class. He speaks to economic anxieties, particularly among white working-class voters, promising to restore lost jobs, revitalize industries, and punish foreign powers like China. Even though many of his policies have failed to deliver meaningful benefits for the average worker, the narrative he spins—that he is fighting for them against an untrustworthy elite—continues to resonate. His wealth does not alienate him from these voters; instead, it reinforces his persona as someone who knows how to succeed in the world and can bring that success to them.

5. The Appeal of Authoritarianism

Authoritarianism is not merely a top-down imposition; it requires the active consent of a significant portion of the population. Many of Trump's supporters are drawn to his promises of law and order, decisive action, and willingness to flout traditional checks on presidential power. This appeal to authoritarianism stems from a desire for stability in times of uncertainty. When the world feels chaotic and the future uncertain, many people gravitate toward a strong figure who promises to take control, even if it means undermining democratic norms.

Additionally, Trump has exploited divisions within American society—racial, cultural, and ideological—to create an “us versus them” dynamic. His supporters often see him as their champion in a cultural war against progressive forces that they believe threaten their values and way of life.

6. Media Manipulation and the Echo Chamber Effect

Trump has masterfully used both traditional media and social media to create a narrative in which he is constantly under attack by enemies of the people—the media, political opponents, and the so-called “deep state.” This creates a closed loop of information for his followers, where they are less likely to engage with critical perspectives and more likely to double down on their support when he is criticized. The echo chambers created by cable news networks like Fox News and the rise of far-right online platforms have contributed to a worldview where Trump is the only trustworthy source of truth.

7. Lack of Political Education and Misinformation

A significant part of Trump’s success can be attributed to a lack of comprehensive political education and the rise of misinformation. For many, politics is a foreign and complex concept, often seen as corrupt and irrelevant to their daily lives. Trump simplifies this complexity, reducing policy issues to easy-to-digest, emotionally charged slogans. This, coupled with the widespread dissemination of misinformation through social media, creates a reality where facts are malleable, and emotional resonance matters more than truth.

8. Identity Politics and Group Loyalty

Finally, identity politics plays a major role in the Trump phenomenon. Many of his supporters are driven by a sense of group identity—racial, national, or ideological. Trump appeals to a segment of the population that feels their identity is under threat. By embracing these groups, he reinforces their sense of belonging and loyalty. In this framework, supporting Trump becomes about policy and defending one’s identity and place.

Conclusion: A Mirror of Society’s Divisions

Trump's rise and continued appeal expose the deep divisions in American society. His supporters are not a monolith; they include people motivated by economic anxiety, cultural fears, identity politics, and a desire for authoritarian control. Understanding why a plurality, and sometimes a majority, of adults would choose Trump requires acknowledging these complex forces.

Rather than dismissing these voters as ignorant or misguided, it is crucial to recognize the underlying grievances and societal changes that drive their support. Only by addressing these root causes—economic inequality, cultural displacement, political disillusionment, and media manipulation—can we begin to heal the divisions that have allowed someone like Trump to ascend to such heights of power.

William James Spriggs