The Outsiders Won
Sanders also understood the national zeitgeist. Just as Trump won on his message, Clinton lost on hers.
Donald Trump is not your average outsider, but he is the chosen vessel of a swath of disaffected, economically marginalized Americans. They feel so far outside, and so serious about asserting their economic and cultural importance, they cared about almost nothing else in this campaign — not adultery and assault allegations, not vague and shifting policy proposals, not egomaniacal bluster.
In fact, Trump’s supporters only seemed to harden with every new flaw and allegation, stiffening against dire warnings from Wall Street, big business and leading politicians in both parties.
On Tuesday, voters clearly showed how serious they are about sending this message: we are tired of being outsiders.
Yes, there are many other groups of disadvantaged people who are far outside the power structure of government and economy. But many stayed home or voted for someone else. The Democratic candidate with the most similar message was Bernie Sanders — and it is notable that Clinton never really won over his supporters.
Just as Trump won on his message, Clinton lost on hers.
We journalists have a critical opportunity — and duty — to bring forward these people’s voices and stories. Today, and for months, there will be a million questions to answer: What will Trump’s presidency mean for trade? Taxes? Immigration? Foreign policy? What will his election mean for Americans of all kinds?
But what really matters here — and will be a laser-like through-line in my coverage — is what Trump’s election means about America.
Those who are asking themselves this morning, what just happened!? have misjudged the power, numbers and resolve of America’s economically disaffected. We must help our audiences understand.
