September 22, 2016
Donald Trump and the Politics of Righteous Anger
When Donald Trump stepped out on stage at a recent Miami rally, the Les Misérables classic "Do You Hear the People Sing?" boomed from the audio system. The audience – which, let's be honest, probably isn't that into musicals – erupted. Cheers filled the arena as the Manhattan socialite-turned-savior of the outcasts took to the podium, saying, "Welcome to all of you deplorables."
In that moment, Trump (or his campaign) found the perfect musical accompaniment to his pugnacious campaign for the presidency. Twisted Sister this wasn't. It was a joyous tribute to the "song of angry men" that underlies Trump's growing support.
At this stage in the game, if the reality show star is going to have a chance against the entrenched Hillary Clinton, he'll need to keep focusing the anger of his backers in new and effective ways. The sad truth is, elections are won not on the strength...(Read Full Article)