Trumpism provides perspective
By Cody Andrus
Donald Trump’s reign has provided a unique lens through which we can evaluate the people in our lives. The "Make America Great Again" (MAGA) movement has often drawn individuals with values that align with Trump's platform, which is steeped in racial division, misogyny, and nationalist rhetoric. Supporting Trump is, at its core, an endorsement of the man and his actions: a history filled with documented lies, sexual assault accusations, and discriminatory practices.
When someone embraces Trump, we should ask what that says about their character. Is it possible to separate the man from the politics? Many would argue no. Trump’s blatant racism, from calling Mexican immigrants "rapists" to attempting to ban Muslims from entering the United States, is inseparable from his public persona. His actions, such as refusing to condemn white supremacist violence in Charlottesville and promoting policies that target marginalized communities, are emblematic of his administration. When people support Trump, they're supporting these actions.
There are also those who don't openly align themselves with MAGA, but don't fully appreciate the gravity of Trump's actions. These individuals may view politics as an abstract game or a simple disagreement of policy. But at some point, moral lines are crossed. The Access Hollywood tape, where Trump brags about sexually assaulting women, offers a glaring example. Ignorance of such behavior isn’t an excuse.
Trump voters should be asked what their standards are. Supporting a man who openly mocks the disabled, disregards women's autonomy, and fans the flames of racism suggests a troubling lack of empathy. It’s worth considering whether their personal beliefs reflect those of the candidate they support, or if they’re simply willing to overlook his behavior.
The New York Times, The Washington Post, The Atlantic, Pew Research Center, American Psychological Association.
