What Donald Trump Didn’t Say
Whatever one thinks of Bernie Saunders, he nails the future under Trump by identifying what Trump did NOT say.
The phenomenon of Donald Trump’s popularity among working-class white Americans, often pejoratively referred to as “rednecks,” has perplexed many observers. In regions traditionally associated with rural and blue-collar communities, Trump’s rhetoric has resonated powerfully. His appeal is rooted in a combination of cultural identity, economic frustration, and a sense of being overlooked by the political establishment. However, a closer examination reveals a paradox: while these voters overwhelmingly support Trump, his policies often run counter to their own economic and social interests. This article explores the reasons behind this apparent contradiction and examines the real-world consequences of Trump’s policies on these communities.
The Appeal of Donald Trump to Rural and Working-Class Voters
Cultural Identity and Nostalgia
At the heart of Trump’s appeal lies his ability to tap into cultural identity. For many rural white Americans, their sense of self is deeply intertwined with values such as hard work, self-reliance, and patriotism. Trump’s slogan, “Make America Great Again,” evokes a nostalgic vision of a bygone era when manufacturing jobs were abundant, family structures were stable, and the country seemed more cohesive.
This nostalgia resonates with many who feel alienated by modern economic and cultural shifts. Globalisation, urbanisation, and progressive social movements have often been perceived as threats to their way of life. Trump, with his blunt rhetoric and rejection of political correctness, provides a voice to their frustrations.
Economic Frustration
Economic discontent has been another key driver of Trump’s popularity. Rural areas have borne the brunt of deindustrialisation, with factory closures and job outsourcing hollowing out many communities. In these regions, wages have stagnated, opportunities have dwindled, and the opioid crisis has taken root. Trump’s promises to “bring back jobs,” particularly in coal, steel, and manufacturing, struck a chord with voters desperate for change.
Anti-Establishment Sentiment
Trump’s outsider status in the political world also played a significant role in his appeal. He positioned himself as a disruptor, someone who would “drain the swamp” and upend the traditional political system that many voters believe has ignored or betrayed them. For people who feel neglected by both major political parties, Trump’s unconventional style and willingness to attack the establishment were refreshing.
Media Echo Chambers
The role of conservative media cannot be overstated. Right-wing outlets such as Fox News, talk radio, and social media platforms have amplified Trump’s message and shaped perceptions of him as a champion of the “forgotten man.” These media outlets have also fostered a distrust of mainstream sources, creating an environment where Trump’s claims, however exaggerated or false, are often accepted without question.
The Reality of Trump’s Policies for His Base
Despite Trump’s rhetorical appeal, the substance of his policies has often been detrimental to the very communities that support him most. Below are some key areas where Trump’s actions have harmed his working-class rural base.
1. Economic Policy: Tax Cuts for the Wealthy
Trump’s signature legislative achievement, the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, disproportionately benefitted the wealthy and large corporations. While the average worker did see a modest short-term tax cut, the vast majority of the benefits went to the top 1%. For rural and working-class Americans, this meant little improvement in their economic circumstances.
Moreover, the tax cuts contributed to a ballooning federal deficit, which Republicans have used to justify calls for cuts to social programmes such as Medicare, Medicaid, and Social Security – lifelines for many rural communities.
2. Healthcare: Undermining the Affordable Care Act
Trump’s efforts to repeal the Affordable Care Act (ACA) would have been disastrous for rural America, where access to healthcare is already limited. The ACA’s Medicaid expansion provided coverage to millions of low-income Americans, including many in rural areas. By attempting to dismantle the ACA and slashing funding for healthcare programmes, Trump jeopardised access to affordable care for his supporters.
Furthermore, Trump’s policies failed to address the opioid crisis effectively. While he declared it a public health emergency, funding and comprehensive strategies were woefully insufficient, leaving many communities to fend for themselves.
3. Trade Wars and Agriculture
Trump’s trade policies, particularly the trade war with China, had a profound impact on American farmers. China imposed retaliatory tariffs on U.S. agricultural products, causing prices for crops like soybeans to plummet. Although Trump implemented a bailout programme to compensate farmers, the payments often favoured large agribusinesses over small family farms, exacerbating inequality within the agricultural sector.
4. Environmental Deregulation
Trump’s rollback of environmental regulations was celebrated by some as a victory for industry, but it has had significant long-term consequences for rural communities. Policies that weakened clean water protections and allowed increased pollution disproportionately affect rural areas, where industries such as mining and farming can have significant environmental impacts.
Additionally, Trump’s support for the coal industry, while politically symbolic, did little to reverse the industry’s decline. The market forces driving the shift to renewable energy and natural gas are far more powerful than any policy intervention, leaving coal-dependent communities without sustainable alternatives.
5. Education and Infrastructure
Rural areas have long suffered from underfunded schools and crumbling infrastructure. Trump’s promises to invest in infrastructure and improve broadband access largely went unfulfilled. His proposed budgets often included cuts to education and rural development programmes, further disadvantaging these communities.
6. Division and Social Unrest
While Trump’s rhetoric may have energised his base, it also deepened divisions within the country. His frequent scapegoating of immigrants, minorities, and urban elites has fuelled social tensions and polarisation. For rural communities, this divisiveness has often translated into a sense of isolation and a breakdown of social cohesion.
The Psychological and Emotional Dimensions of Trump’s Appeal
Understanding Trump’s enduring support among his base requires looking beyond policy outcomes. For many, Trump’s appeal is not about rational cost-benefit analysis but about emotional and psychological factors.
Identity and Belonging
Trump’s rhetoric validates the identities of his supporters. In a rapidly changing world, he offers a sense of stability and affirmation. By positioning himself as a defender of traditional American values, Trump gives his supporters a sense of belonging and purpose.
Fear and Resentment
Fear of cultural and demographic change has also been a significant driver of Trump’s support. His rhetoric about immigration and “law and order” capitalises on anxieties about the erosion of traditional social hierarchies. This fear often manifests as resentment toward perceived outsiders, whether they are immigrants, urban elites, or progressive activists.
The Illusion of Strength
Trump’s combative style and refusal to admit mistakes are often interpreted as signs of strength. For voters who feel powerless in the face of economic and social change, Trump’s brashness and defiance are appealing, even if his actions do not improve their circumstances.
Moving Forward: Breaking the Cycle
If Trump’s policies have harmed his base, why does he continue to enjoy their support? Breaking this cycle requires addressing the underlying issues that make his rhetoric so appealing.
Economic Investment in Rural Areas
To truly help rural and working-class communities, policymakers must prioritise investments in infrastructure, education, and healthcare. Expanding broadband access, supporting small businesses, and fostering renewable energy industries could create sustainable economic opportunities.
Combatting Disinformation
The proliferation of misinformation and partisan media has created an environment where facts often take a backseat to ideology. Addressing this issue requires media literacy education and efforts to rebuild trust in credible news sources.
Fostering Unity
Finally, addressing the cultural divides that fuel Trump’s appeal requires fostering dialogue and understanding between urban and rural communities. Emphasising shared values and common goals can help bridge the gap and reduce polarisation.
A Pyhrric Victory
Donald Trump’s support among working-class white Americans is a complex phenomenon rooted in cultural identity, economic frustration, and anti-establishment sentiment. However, his policies have often failed to deliver the benefits he promised, leaving many of his supporters worse off. Addressing the challenges facing rural America requires more than rhetoric; it demands substantive investment and a commitment to bridging divides. Only then can the cycle of false promises and unfulfilled expectations be broken.
If You Practice The Teachings Of The New Testament, This Is Trump’s Response

Is there any way back for the USA? It does not look likely at the moment.