I am not a Donald Trump supporter, but I believe that he has
hit a responsive chord among the electorate. There are several
reasons.
1) He is not a career politician whose only aim is to get re-elected
term after term either as a U.S. Senator or Governor. He does not
need the job of President for his own financial well-being or perks.
A big "Amen" on that one. As disappointing as experienced politicians like Clinton and George W. were, the current totally inexperienced "community organizer" has been much, much worse. America is looking for someone who has the sort of experience that might well indicate that he can accomplish something more than making excuses and blaming his predecessor. And, after having a President who is owned outright by George Soros and others, an independent is very appealing. On the other hand, Trump isn't nearly as good a business leader as his reputation.
2) He speaks on the issues which trouble many Americans and does
not use politically correct language. As an outsider he speaks from
the heart and lets the chips fall where they may.
His refusal to use politically correct doubletalk is very appealing. There is a small minority of people who place style over substance, but only so long as the style is polite to the point of being effete. If he were alive today, I suspect Harry Truman's bluntness would be appreciated.
3. Americans are not looking for another Bush or Clinton. They do not
want political dynasties, they want real solutions to real problems. People
sense that America is adrift morally with legal abortion and legal gay marriage.
People are fearful that Terrorism is not being taken seriously by the Federal
government.
I think it goes beyond the sort of vague fears we once had. It seems to me that an increasing number of people are genuinely afraid that America will turn into a socialist state, and/or that we'll lose a major war fought on our own soil.
4. Donald Trump has become the poster boy for the angst and anxiety
of the populace. He shoots from the hip with his bluster and people
feel he is speaking for them.
The populace has a lot to be anxious about. "I'm from the government, and I'm here to help you" has replace "The check is in the mail" as the #1 lie in America.
The American people, at least a big enough majority of them to win an election, are simply fed up with the ineffectiveness of politicians from either party. The Democrats have ruined almost everything they touch, but the Republicans seem to be a feckless bunch who can't even take advantage of majorities in both houses of Congress. In that environment, an outsider like Trump seems a much better prospect to bring about renewed hope and change for the better. The slogan "Hope and Change" worked for a community organizer with absolutely no experience or qualifications. Donald Trump might be a long shot, but to many, many voters, he's America's last, best hope.
That's sad, when you think about it. Trump has a lot of flaws, and probably would make a terrible President. But except for Cruz, I don't see anyone in either party who looks like a better choice.
