In recent years, the landscape of American politics has been dramatically altered by an increasing trend of resentment-driven politics. This complex web of grievances, rooted in various societal, economic, and political issues, doesn’t merely serve as a background noise; but rather, as a key player in shaping national policy and discourse. Strikingly, this phenomenon is predicted to persist, even in the post-Trump era.
White House politics, essentially under the Trump administration, effectively capitalized on this pervasive discontent. However, it is a significant misconception to exclusively attribute this trend to Trump. The origins date back to long before his term in office. It is the culmination of several events and sentiments that have gradually grown in intensity and frequency. A study led by the PRRI (Public Religion Research Institute) found that the loss of American culture, increasing ethnic diversity, and economic disenfranchisement among specific demographic are some of the main grievances propelling American politics.
Loss of American culture is a noticeable front in the grievance battleground. According to the PRRI study, 48% of Americans believe that the country’s cultural and moral fabric is falling apart, the sentiment more pronounced among white evangelical Protestants and Republicans. This complaint links to perceived threats from increasing acceptance of same-sex marriage, transgender rights and immigration, all of which are seen by some as departures from traditional American values.
Another equally potent grievance is the advent of ethnic diversification. It has further fueled the perception of diminishing ‘national’ identity. Perceived ‘others’ in the national narrative, including immigrants and people of color, are increasingly seen as threats to economic stability and social norms, eliciting fear and resentment among those who wish to preserve a more familiar status quo. Alarmingly, this form of racial resentment is predicted to persist and even potentially escalate in the future.
Economic factors also play a significant role. In reality, the wealth gap in the U.S. is widening, and economic disenfranchisement is an exacerbating concern for many. Among Trump supporters, there is a deeply ingrained belief that the economic system is not working for them, fostering a deep-seated resentment towards urban elites and institutions whom they perceive as predatory.
While grievance politics have been spotlighted during Trump’s presidency, projections suggest that it is likely to continue well into the future. Experts point towards an increase in these drivers of resentment in the era ahead, rather than a reduction. The diverse cultural background of Gen Z, the generation set to be the next voting bloc, is predicted to stoke the flames of ethnic grievance.
In conclusion, America’s politics of grievance is not the product of one presidency, nor is it likely to end with one. Grievances about cultural change, increasing ethnic diversity, and economic fear are monumental driving forces. It is a complex tapestry of grievances that has become entwined in the American political sphere, shaping national policy and discourse for the foreseeable future.