https://thehill.com/opinion/-mellman-why-has-trump-remained-so-p…
With Donald Trump smacking down his Republican rivals in Iowa, it’s worth asking why a disgusting human being and incompetent former president, facing multiple indictments is faring so well in the Republican Party.
After the 2016 elections, I wrote a book chapter exploring his initial electoral appeal, which I argued arose from uniting three strands of conservatism—aversion to government, aversion to change and aversion to difference—along with the billionaire bounce, the view that a successful businessperson (which he was less of than he claimed) could fix the economy.
In my view, three factors taken together account for much of his continuing appeal—partisanship, the persistence of preexisting beliefs and (faux) authenticity.
Partisanship is a powerful drug, a core identity that organizes our thoughts and feelings in the political realm.
Trump was widely disliked by Republicans until it became clear he was a real contender for his party’s nomination.
@BuckBrooklynRepublican4mos4MO
Vivek working with Trump was the right move.
Hopefully Vivek can help secure Trump a victory in November and then be appointed to a prominent position in his administration.
Then in 2028 …
@LazyParliamentRepublican4mos4MO
I don’t fall for Vivek’s promotion and Trump won’t either. Trump can spot a fraud a mile away.
@BuckBrooklynRepublican4mos4MO
It’s amazing Vivek is supporting and endorsing Trump. It was the right decision and Vivek will do amazing things apart of Trump’s team. Looking forward to everything that will be accomplished putting America first.
@9CJ6CB64mos4MO
I shiver to think of 2028 if trump wins this term.
@BoldZebra4mos4MO
shiver about the state of the country or the other candidates who will run in 2028?
@ISIDEWITH4mos4MO
Can the perception of authenticity in a leader outweigh their professional incompetence or personal flaws?
@9CJ6CB64mos4MO
If best goes to worst, Trump might be an example that perception is stronger than reality.
Shows the gullibility and ignorance of the American public
Although he is not Christian and uses the Bible to claim himself as the Messiah, evangelical Christians believe that he can save America and make it more Christian.
@9J5SQBC 4mos4MO
In simplest terms, Trump is the stereotypical antagonist that his MAGA cult base (not ALL Republicans) will cheer for and support regardless of the true nature of his moral character, speech or actions. Trump exhibits all the traits of narcissistic personality disorder and is a master at marketing himself and his brand to rile his extremist base. The worse his moral compass becomes, the more his MAGA base supports him and his 'dangerous to democracy' rhetoric and attempt at authoritarianism. Rules for thee, not me MAGA Republicans have adopted Trump's proverbial playbook to nor… Read more
@9J5QPWR4mos4MO
all of these answers, he caused a literal terrorist attack and didn’t even get in trouble for it, he is a pedophile who said if his daughter wasn’t his daughter and was older he would like her, he stole money from the government and took it for his own greed, he is ignorant for the american country because he can’t handle people having a different opinion from him so i don’t know why people like him at all.
@9J5QDJQ4mos4MO
He literally caused a terrorist attack on the capital, I have no idea why he's so popular.
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