Analysis:
Fear has been an election strategy on both sides of the political divide, and Trump, in particular, has used this tool effectively in his favor in past elections. However, the current arena of American politics may suggest that this strategy is no longer working for Trump.
Trump’s early campaign strategy was to tap into the deepest fears in the collective American subconscious and then position himself as the knight in shining armor capable of vanquishing these fears. He exploited frustrations over issues such as immigration, economic uncertainty, and perceived cultural change. His rhetoric resonated with many Americans who felt that their voices were unheard and their fears unacknowledged, propelling him to an unexpected victory in 2016.
However, recent developments indicate that this fear factor could be starting to work against Trump rather than for him. The fear exploited by Trump’s campaign is now being directed at him, driven by volatile issues such as his handling of the COVID-19 pandemic and racial tensions in the United States.
The American populace is battling very real fears regarding health, wellbeing, and financial security due to the global pandemic. The administration’s response or lack thereof, is exacerbating these fears rather than allaying them.
Even with racial issues, the huge supportive response for the Black Lives Matter movement following the tragic death of George Floyd indicates that a significant section of the American populace is increasingly fearful of an administration they perceive as neglecting racial justice.
The fear factor, while previously effective, is now driving a wedge in his support base. Trump’s poor COVID-19 response resonates with the fear and insecurity inherent in many of his working-class constituents. Meanwhile, the overt racial injustices witnessed in 2020 have pushed away many moderate conservatives and contributed to civil unrest.
In conclusion, while fear has been an effective tool for Trump in the past, the current state of affairs indicates that this fear factor could be ushering in his downfall. His handling of crucial issues has summoned fears in his constituents rather than allaying them, turning the tables on his previous fear-driven success.