NoThe Forgotten American White Workng Class: MAGA Mania Justified?
Is An American White Working Class Forgotten?
Photo credit: Author Image is a personal photo digitally edited with PS express.
Something recently challenged me to step outside of my literary comfort zone and write about alternative perspectives and write them.
The American white working class, a segment of society that was once at the forefront of economic and political discussions, now is fading into the background. As our nation grapples with a multitude of challenges, ranging from political polarization to a transforming economy, it is imperative that we don’t overlook the concerns and experiences of this crucial demographic or anyone other citizen group. In this article, I discuss the reasons behind this apparent neglect and delve into the potential consequences that such perceived disregard could have for our country. I don’t believe in white supremacy, white nationalist ideology, or racism. The opposite, I advocate for reparations and reconciliation for the historical slavery sins, eradication of systemic racism, end of qualified police immunity, and a firm belief in the democratic ideals that each person is free and has a vote and a say in how they are to be governed and not ruled. A pretense to support an angry portion of the “Forgotten” population only serves to weaken America. Trump nor the Republican party has taken up any meaningful border immigration bill in Congress to fix any issues instead using immigration as a tool to hammer their opponents yet never fixing the issue only flying migrants to disparate locations. Why is that? Ask your representatives or look it up yourself? I did…
Trump Leads White Working Class Towards Autocracy
One of the key factors contributing to the perception of the American white working class being forgotten is the rise of Donald Trump, a disciple of the Russian President. During his 2016 presidential campaign, Trump successfully tapped into the frustrations and anxieties of this demographic, promising to bring back jobs and restore their sense of pride. This resonated strongly with many members of the white working class who felt ignored by previous administrations (two democratic presidential terms) and left behind by globalization. However, the Republican congress did not advance their cause at the time (2008 – 2016) but have seemed willing to abandon all political will to hold allegiance to the country instead of a person or party. Trump’s ability to connect with this demographic was not a mere happenstance but a result of his unique approach to politics. He presented himself as a political outsider who was unafraid to challenge the established order. This resonated with a significant number of individuals in the white working class who perceived themselves as being disadvantaged by a system that had not fulfilled their needs. Trump’s message of economic protectionism and commitment to revitalizing industries that were once the foundation of their communities resonated deeply. However, Trump’s time in office did not see the delivery of manufacturing jobs and a dramatic increase in oil and gas production, as has been the case under President Biden.
Trump’s skill in tapping into and amplifying the fears and concerns of the white working class also contributed to his political success. By stoking anxieties about immigration, trade deals, abortion, religion, and cultural change, he effectively galvanized support within this demographic. He skillfully talks and jokes to his supporters in a denigrating language they like rather than over their heads with intellectual punctuations. His rallies became spectacles of populist fervor, with passionate supporters feeling a renewed sense of hope and empowerment. The circus rallies were the honey to draw the bees. Supporters experienced a feeling of belonging and purchased contradictory amounts of Trump merchandise in the face of rampant poverty. The electoral college favors him and not the popular vote. Minority electors instead of the popular voter majority fuel America’s elections. This upends the democratic process.
It is important to note that the white working class is not a monolithic group with uniform opinions and experiences. Within this demographic, there are diverse perspectives and varying levels of support for Trump. While some white working-class individuals saw him as a champion of their interests, others were skeptical of his promises and questioned his ability to deliver on his campaign rhetoric. Power and greed remain the goal. Tracking the financial contributions and return on investment made by the billionaire donors consistently is essential.
It is undeniable that Trump’s appeal resonated with the white working class. His team identified this under-supported voter bloc that coincided with the Tea Party congressional voices. His ability to tap into their frustrations and anxieties struck a chord with many who felt marginalized and overlooked. The decline of manufacturing jobs, the impact of globalization, and the changing cultural landscape all contributed to a sense of unease among this demographic. Trump’s promises to address these concerns resonated with those who felt that they had ignored their voices for too long.
It is also worth noting that Trump’s rise among the white working class was not solely based on economic factors. We should not overlook his ability to tap into cultural anxieties, even though his message of job creation and economic protectionism played a significant role. The fear of cultural change, the perception of losing one’s identity, and the desire to preserve traditional values all played a part in Trump’s appeal to this demographic. Also, his propensity for not telling the truth and MAGA’s need to be heard seems a mutually beneficial arrangement. MAGA supporters did not economically benefit like the wealthy, but their voting power gives rise to a larger platform for grievances.
In conclusion, we can attribute Trump’s success among the white working class to a combination of factors. His ability to connect with their frustrations, his promises to revive industries and protect their economic interests, and his amplification of their fears and concerns all contributed to his popularity within this demographic. However, it is important to recognize that the white working class is not a homogenous group, and there are diverse perspectives and opinions within this demographic.
White Working Class Backlash Against Democrats Minority Support: Racial Makeup of White Working Class education and economics
The perception of being forgotten is not solely due to Trump’s rise. There has also been a growing sense among the white working class that the Democratic Party has shifted its focus away from their concerns. As the Democratic Party increasingly embraces diversity and social justice issues, some white working-class voters feel alienated or even vilified.
“In embracing diversity and social justice, let us not forget the importance of inclusivity and understanding for all.”
The racial makeup of the white working class is an important aspect to consider. While this demographic is predominantly white, it is not homogeneous in terms of education and economic status. Many face economic challenges and struggle to make ends meet, leading to a sense of economic anxiety. The decline of manufacturing jobs and the rise of automation have left many in search of stable employment.
For example, within the white working class, there are individuals who may have completed only a high school education, while others may have got associate’s or bachelor’s degrees. Some have got college degrees, while others have only completed high school or have no formal education beyond that. This diversity in educational attainment affects the opportunities available to individuals within this demographic. Those with higher education may have more access to well-paying jobs, while those with limited education may find themselves limited to lower-paying positions.
Economic factors also play a significant role in the white working class’s perception of the Democratic Party. Many of these individuals are struggling to make ends meet and are concerned about their financial stability. The decline of manufacturing jobs, once a reliable source of employment for this demographic, has left many unemployed. The rise of automation has further exacerbated this issue, as machines replace human workers in various industries. Trump and his White Working Class MAGA supporters continue to direct their focus towards immigrants as a key target.
The white working class’s economic concerns intersect with their perception of the Democratic Party’s support for minority communities, creating a complex dynamic within their political beliefs. They rooted this intersection in the belief that the party’s focus on advancing social justice and equality for marginalized groups may come at the expense of prioritizing economic policies that directly benefit the working class. This perception contributes to a sense of alienation and frustration among this demographic, leading some to question their allegiance to the Democratic Party. It underscores the importance of addressing both economic anxieties and concerns about minority representation in order to build a more inclusive and effective political platform. Some within the white working class view the Democratic Party’s support for minority communities as a threat to their own economic well-being, despite the party’s focus on addressing historical injustices and promoting equality. However, it is important to note that advocating for social justice does not mean redirecting resources and opportunities away from the white working class. In fact, by addressing systemic inequalities and creating a more inclusive society, the Democratic Party aims to uplift all marginalized communities, including the white working class. It is not a zero-sum game where one group’s gain automatically t’s loss. By work’s loss. By working towards a more fair society, the Democratic Party believes that everyone, regardless of race or socio-economic background, can benefit and thrive.
This perceived clash between preserving individual economic security and advocating for broader social justice leads to a sense of disconnect between the Democratic Party and the white working class. It highlights the complexity of addressing the needs and concerns of a diverse demographic and the challenges faced by political parties in effectively engaging and representing all segments of society.
Political Racial Lines Drawn
Difference of opinion between the white working class and the Democratic Party has given rise to political racial lines being drawn. This polarization has been further exacerbated by the divisive rhetoric that permeates our current political discourse. Instead of engaging in meaningful discussions and seeking common ground, we find ourselves in a climate characterized by mistrust and divisiveness.
In order to bridge this growing divide, it is crucial to address the concerns of the white working class without dismissing or invalidating the experiences and struggles of other marginalized communities. Our society is complex and multifaceted, and we should do any attempt to address the challenges faced by the white working class within the framework of inclusivity and empathy.
One of the key factors contributing to the political and racial lines being drawn is the perception that the Democratic Party has shifted its focus away from the concerns of the white working class. This perception has led to a sense of alienation and frustration among many white working-class individuals, who feel that their voices are not being heard or valued by the political establishment. It is important to recognize and acknowledge these concerns in order to build a more inclusive and representative political system.
It is essential for policymakers to recognize the impact of economic anxiety on the white working class and develop strategies to provide meaningful support and opportunities. This can include investments in education and vocational training programs, as well as initiatives to revitalize struggling communities. We can start rebuilding trust and creating a more inclusive society where we hear and value the voices of all individuals by addressing the economic concerns of the white working class.
Furthermore, it is important to acknowledge that the white working class is not a monolithic group, but a diverse collection of individuals with varying experiences and perspectives. While economic anxiety may be a common thread among many white working-class individuals, it is important to recognize and address the intersecting factors that contribute to their unique challenges. This includes considering the impact of race, gender, and geographic location on the experiences of the white working class.
Conclusion
In conclusion, we should not forget or disregard the American white, black, Hispanic, or Asian working class or any other American citizen in our discourse and policymaking. Their concerns are valid and deserve to be taken seriously. However, some may argue that by focusing too much on the unique challenges faced by a specific demographic, we risk neglecting the needs and concerns of other groups in society. This could lead to a fragmented society as seen already with 1900s era slogan Make American Great Again (MAGA) supporters, where different groups vie for resources and attention, rather than working together towards a common goal. The rise in racism, anti-Asian, and anti-Semitism creates a critical need to balance addressing the challenges faced by specific demographics and promoting inclusivity and equality for all members of society. Remarkably, affordable healthcare, dependable Medicare, and Social Security and public education typify needs of all working-class and poor people. It is essential that we engage in honest conversations and seek pragmatic solutions that bring us closer to a society where no one feels forgotten. Alas, this autocratic mission seeks an imbalance as a win-lose rather than a win-win for the American people.
