What does Donald Trump's success tell us about the American public?
Donald Trump's success in the 2024 presidential election provides several insights into the attitudes, concerns, and values of the American public. Here are some key points:
Economic Concerns
The economy was a pivotal issue for Trump voters. Despite national data showing robust economic growth, many Americans felt that inflation had outpaced wage increases, and they viewed the economy negatively. Trump's promises to raise tariffs, bring back manufacturing jobs, and implement tax cuts resonated strongly with his supporters, indicating that economic insecurity and the desire for economic change were significant factors124.
Perception of Change
Trump's supporters saw him as a candidate who would change Washington for the better. A high percentage (86%) of his supporters believed he would bring about positive change, contrasting sharply with the views of his opponents, who feared he would change things for the worse. This suggests that many Americans were dissatisfied with the status quo and sought a leader who promised significant change2.
Values and Traditions
A vast majority of Trump voters (89%) believed that American values, traditions, and future economic prosperity were under threat. This perception of threat to traditional values and economic security was much higher among Trump supporters compared to those who supported his opponent, Kamala Harris. This indicates a strong sense of nostalgia and a desire to protect what these voters see as core American values5.
Public Sympathy and Resilience
Trump's survival of an assassination attempt and his continued campaigning despite the incident garnered public sympathy and reinforced his image as a strong and resilient leader. This event motivated his base further, particularly among voters who valued security and saw him as the only candidate capable of 'drain the swamp'4.
Social and Political Norms
Trump's presidency, including his 2024 campaign, highlighted the importance of social and political norms in American governance. His supporters often overlooked or accepted his violations of these norms, such as not releasing his tax returns or maintaining close ties to his business interests. This suggests a segment of the public is willing to prioritize other issues over traditional expectations of presidential behavior3.
Psychological and Social Orientations
Trump voters scored higher on tests for authoritarianism and Social Dominance Orientation, indicating a preference for hierarchy within social groups. This suggests that Trump's appeal was partly based on a desire for strong leadership and a clear social order5.
In summary, Trump's success reflects a public that is economically anxious, seeking significant change, concerned about traditional values, and often prioritizing strength and resilience in leadership over adherence to traditional political norms.