The Infinite Tolerance of Trumpism in America
In a deeply provocative essay, Roxane Gay explores America’s seemingly limitless tolerance for political dysfunction, specifically examining Donald Trump’s enduring appeal despite his extensive history of scandal, divisive rhetoric, and legal woes. The piece confronts a sobering reality: Mr. Trump’s faults appear to fuel, rather than hinder, his political success.
Key Takeaways:
- A Decade of Deflection: The author recounts waiting for Trump’s numerous controversies to irreparably damage his political standing, but instead, his base remains unwavering.
- Democracy at Risk: With Trump’s reelection and Republican control of Congress, the essay warns of eroded checks and balances and a grim future for marginalized groups.
- Cultural Delusion: The piece highlights how misinformation and bigotry dominate the political landscape, challenging readers to reject the normalization of absurd and harmful narratives.
“We must refuse to participate in a mass delusion. We must refuse to accept that the ignorance on display is a congenital condition rather than a choice.”
The essay highlights something I've struggled to put to words, there is endless tolerance for Trump, yet tolerance for the weakest classes of people in the US is waning.
“To suggest we should yield even a little to Mr. Trump’s odious politics, to suggest we should compromise on the rights of trans people, for instance, […] is unacceptable. It is shameful and cowardly."
Exactly this.
