I’m old enough to remember when admiring Hitler was a dealbreaker for decent human beings. - John Pavlovitz
In 2015, a detrimental wave began to rise in American politics, led by a controversial figure: Donald Trump. Trump's tumultuous start was characterized by the slogan, “Make America Great Again,” which many viewed as a cover for deeper, more troubling motives.
Trump's toxic journey began with his aggressive language and the less-than-civil debates about immigrants in the U.S. Back in 2016, educators noticed that some kids were mimicking Trump's anti-immigrant language during playground disputes and classroom discussions. “We mapped it out. There was no state or region that jumped out. It was everywhere,” said Maureen Costello, the study’s author. “Marginalized students are feeling very frightened, especially Muslims and Mexicans. Many teachers use the word terrified.” The children who did the taunting were echoing Trump’s rhetoric, she said. “Bad behavior has been normalized. They think it’s OK.” read more at The Guardian.
Trump's well-known already tarnished reputation, linked to notorious figures like Jeffrey Epstein, was embraced by a following of supporters often referred to as the MAGA nutcases who didn't care that he had a history of fraud and racism in New York. - AP News
But what exactly defines these MAGA nutcases? They form a distinctive faction within the political landscape, characterized by a fierce resistance to any perceived threats against their beliefs. This group, also described as the "angry crowd," consists of fearmongers, conspiracy theorists, and dissidents, driven by a toxic mix of misinformation. Statistics show a notable presence of white supremacists and nationalist movements among them, which together embody a narrow view of what America should be. They have labeled him as Jesus, God and Savior which seemingly goes against the teachings they embrace as so-called Christians.
For nearly a decade, this vocal group has remained aggressively loyal to their twice-impeached leader. Trump, facing significant legal challenges including a recent civil suit where he was found liable for the sexual assault of E. Jean Carroll, also found guilty of 34 fraud counts in New York. There are also ongoing cases against Trump in Washington DC, Georgia, and Florida. Following the chaotic aftermath of the 2020 election—a defeat that left them reeling—Trump's rhetoric grew even more extreme, inciting his MAGA nutcases and summoning them to Washington DC culminating in the notorious rally that incited the violence of January 6, 2021.
On that fateful day, his followers stormed the U.S. Capitol, threatening and clashing violently with law enforcement while senators and representatives were secured in their chambers for protection. This incident was a critical moment, showcasing their shift toward extremism.
Despite numerous scandals, Trump is once again a candidate in the 2024 presidential election. He clings to the same aggressive communication style filled with lies and conspiracy theories. While many observe that he appears weary and mentally diminished, his core supporters remain unfazed, choosing instead to celebrate his inflammatory speeches.
One thing I want to point out as we approach the final days of the election is how much we're seeing DARVO in action right now. For those who don't know, DARVO is an acronym for how narcissists respond when they are called to account. It stands for the following: Deny Attack Reverse Victim and Offender. Think about how many times we've seen this from Trump and his campaign surrogates in recent weeks. It's hallmark narcissism. Textbook decompensation. Exactly what narcissists do under threat. - Elizabeth McLaughlin
Americans are tired of the MAGA nutcases and of Trump after nine years of them trashing the Constitution, the military, women's rights, civil rights and our freedoms.
Enter Kamala Harris and Tim Walz, joining forces to tackle Trump and his MAGA enthusiasts. Their campaign, a beacon of hope and advancement, adopts a ground-up, middle-out strategy that resonates with a broad spectrum of Americans eager for a new path away from nine years of MAGA discontent. And they're not holding back. Both use Trump's own words and actions against him.
Words to use against him: find out what he said about abortion ... In Trump’s Own Words: “Proud” and “Honored” to Have “Terminated” Reproductive Freedoms.
Harris and Walz are committed to more than just opposing Donald Trump. They are keenly aware of the struggles faced by everyday Americans who feel neglected by corporate elites and the political establishment. Their middle-out strategy centers on uplifting working and middle-class families, crafting policies that resonate with those who have experienced economic hardships firsthand.
Harris and Walz have skillfully turned Trump’s often controversial statements against him, transforming his words into powerful campaign tools. During a rally, Harris recalled Trump’s degrading remarks about women, specifically mentioning his infamous comment about grabbing women “by the pussy.” She addressed the implications of these words, stating, “These words have consequences. They set a tone that permeates our society.”
By framing his rhetoric this way, she effectively shows voters how Trump's past is a cautionary tale, urging a collective stand for respect and dignity in public discourse. This strategy successfully draws a clear line between their values and his divisive approach.
Former staff members of Trump, including generals such as John Kelly, are raising concerns about the risks of another term with Trump. In recent interviews, Kelly has cited various statements made by Trump that express admiration for Hitler and a desire for his generals to emulate those of Hitler. Harris swiftly responded to the comments, utilizing them to criticize Trump during a CNN town hall on Wednesday, October 23, 2024.
“The people who know Donald Trump best—all Republicans by the way—have called him unfit and dangerous.”General Kelly is “putting out a 911 call to the American people.”-VP Kamala Harris during the CNN town hall that was meant to be a debate until Trump refused to participate. - Kamala Harris CNN Townhall
Tim Walz's candid and sometimes blunt humor complements the campaign's tone. At a rally, he remarked about Elon Musk, saying, “Look at him, skipping around like a fool.” This light-hearted jab illustrates his refusal to shy away from criticizing influential figures who back Trump.
Walz’s authenticity resonates with voters looking for relatable leaders. In a landscape where 78% of people feel disconnected from politicians, his ability to vocalize the frustrations of everyday people sets him apart. His down-to-earth demeanor creates a genuine connection with the average American, fostering trust and relatability.
Harris and Walz tackle economic inequality head-on, a significant concern during the Trump administration. They showcase the stark contrast between Trump’s tax cuts for the wealthy and the struggles faced by working-class families across the nation. Their campaign videos often feature real stories from individuals whose lives have been impacted, making the issue more relatable.
For instance, during an address in Minneapolis, Walz poignantly stated, “While Trump brags about Wall Street bonuses, families here are choosing between groceries and rent.” This vivid imagery helps illustrate the pressing issues many Americans face, reinforcing their commitment to addressing economic disparities head-on.
A core message from Harris and Walz is the importance of unity and collective progress. In a recent speech, Harris said, “We are not defined by the loudest voices. We are defined by the strength of our communities, by the love we have for each other.” This unifying message is crucial in a political environment often divided by tribalism.
By emphasizing shared goals and values, they create an emotional connection that many Americans are longing for. Their vision for a united future is one that resonates, especially among those tired of polarized politics. It encourages everyone to come together around mutual respect and understanding.
Harris and Walz actively seek to engage a wide spectrum of voices, aiming to include groups traditionally overlooked in the political arena. By prioritizing outreach to communities of color, women, and young voters, they ensure that their campaign reflects the diversity of America.
At various campaign events, they spotlight activists and local leaders, reinforcing that the struggle against Trumpism is a shared battle. This commitment to inclusivity highlights their dedication to representation, a vital aspect of a campaign that seeks to connect with all citizens.
As Harris and Walz continue to campaign, they embody a fresh, hopeful vision that challenges Trump’s legacy. They are not just contenders; they are advocates for a future that prioritizes all Americans, especially those who have been marginalized.
Through their blend of authenticity, commitment to unity, and dedication to economic justice, they navigate the political landscape with determination. The journey ahead highlights the importance of learning from the past while moving toward a more equitable and inclusive nation. With Harris and Walz leading the charge, many voters can see that positive change is not only possible—it is attainable.
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