The author expresses their unlikely support for Donald Trump despite their differences, highlighting Trump’s focus on the working class as a compelling reason for their two votes. They note that while they don’t personally align with Trump’s personality or tactics, his acknowledgment of the struggles faced by the working class was pivotal.
Trump’s outsider status and promises to renegotiate trade agreements and champion domestic manufacturing resonated with the author, particularly due to their background in manufacturing and witnessing the decline of American industry.
Furthermore, Trump’s pledge to achieve energy independence and bolster national security appealed to the author’s concerns about economic stability and global threats. They credit Trump with effectively addressing ISIS and acknowledging the chaos at the border, even if his actions didn’t fully resolve these issues.
The author emphasizes the necessity of border security while advocating for a humane immigration system, recognizing the complexities involved in addressing illegal immigration.
The common thread throughout Trump’s appeal to working-class Americans, according to the author, is pragmatism. Trump’s presidency sparked a transformation within the Republican Party, shifting its focus towards productivity and ordinary citizens.
Despite their reservations about Trump’s character, the author acknowledges his role in paving the way for new leaders like Senator J.D. Vance, Governor Ron DeSantis, and Senator Josh Hawley. Trump’s impact on the Republican Party is seen as a catalyst for change, providing a platform for the concerns of the working class to be addressed.
Looking ahead to a potential Biden-Trump rematch, the author anticipates continued support from working-class Americans for the party that acknowledges their struggles.
They predict that the Republican Party’s recognition of this demographic, initiated by Trump, will resonate with voters who have felt marginalized by mainstream politics for decades. Overall, the author acknowledges Trump’s divisive persona but credits him with catalyzing a necessary shift within the political landscape, particularly in addressing the concerns of the working class.