In 2023, Donald Trump made headlines by declaring his intention to become a dictator “on day one” of his second term in office. This bold statement, which seemed to challenge the principles of democracy, surprisingly did not deter a majority of voters. In fact, many embraced the idea, viewing it as a means to fight the ongoing culture war. According to David Norman Smith, a sociology professor at the University of Kansas, the issue goes beyond traditional labels like dictatorship and democracy. Instead, it reflects a desire for strong leadership in the battle for cultural dominance.
Smith, along with Eric Hanley, an associate professor of sociology at KU, delved into this phenomenon in their chapter titled “Authoritarianism From Below: Why and How Donald Trump Follows His Followers.” Their analysis, featured in “The Future of Agency: Between Autonomy and Heteronomy,” sheds light on Trump’s appeal to individuals who resonate with his authoritarian rhetoric. The chapter explores the implications of this support and the underlying motivations driving it.
The roots of this political trend predate Trump’s presidency, as evidenced by data from the 2012 and 2016 American National Election Studies. Smith and Hanley’s survey questions, based on the Right-wing Authoritarianism Scale, revealed that Trump’s supporters were drawn to him not for economic reasons but because of shared prejudices and enemies. Trump’s focus on the culture war, rather than economic issues, has been a central theme in his speeches and resonated strongly with his base.
Contrary to the belief that voters prioritize economic concerns, Smith argues that Trump’s appeal lies in his cultural representation. This was evident in the 2016 data and subsequent surveys conducted by institutions like the Monmouth University Polling Institute and Morning Consult. Smith recalls a similar phenomenon during Ronald Reagan’s presidency, where public perception of his caring nature did not align with his popularity as a strong leader.
As a seasoned professor specializing in the political intersections of sociology, psychology, and economy, Smith’s research delves into the factors influencing attitudes towards democracy and equality. While he can dissect the reasons behind Trump’s support, he refrains from making predictions about the future of Trump’s presidency and legacy. Trump’s self-proclaimed approach of “going hard” and his willingness to embrace uncertainty reflect a gambler’s mentality that has characterized his leadership style.
In conclusion, the dynamics of Trump’s appeal as a potential dictator reveal deeper societal trends and desires for strong, culturally resonant leadership. By understanding the motivations behind this support, we can gain insights into the complexities of modern politics and the evolving landscape of democracy and authoritarianism.
