A recent poll conducted by a leading news organization found that a staggering 65% of Americans consider President Donald Trump to be conservative or very conservative. This result has left many people, including myself, puzzled and confused. How can a man who has constantly defied traditional conservative values and beliefs be perceived as a conservative by such a large percentage of the American population?
To start with, let us understand what it means to be a conservative. The term “conservative” refers to a person who holds traditional values and beliefs, who is cautious about change and believes in preserving the status quo. They are known for their strong adherence to principles such as limited government, fiscal responsibility, and a strong moral and ethical code. These are the very values that have shaped the Republican party, and it is no surprise that conservatives make up a significant portion of their voter base.
However, when we look at President Trump’s actions and policies, they seem to contradict these very principles. Let us take a closer look at some of the key issues that define conservatism and how Trump’s actions have gone against them.
Limited Government: One of the core principles of conservatism is the belief in limited government intervention in people’s lives. Yet, President Trump has consistently pushed for policies that expand the government’s reach, such as the travel ban, which restricts the entry of citizens from certain Muslim-majority countries. He has also proposed significant budget increases for the military and has been vocal about his support for government surveillance programs. These actions clearly go against the idea of limited government and show a tendency towards authoritarianism.
Fiscal Responsibility: Conservatives have always prided themselves on being fiscally responsible and advocating for smaller government spending. However, the Trump administration has been anything but frugal. The 2017 tax cut, which was touted as a major achievement, has added trillions of dollars to the national debt. Additionally, the president’s proposed budget for 2020 includes significant increases in military spending, while also cutting essential programs like Medicare and Medicaid. These actions not only contradict conservative principles but also pose a significant risk to the country’s financial stability.
Moral and Ethical Code: A crucial aspect of conservatism is the belief in traditional moral and ethical values. Yet, Trump’s personal life and behavior have been anything but exemplary. His multiple affairs and crude remarks about women go against the traditional family values that conservatives hold dear. His constant use of Twitter to attack and belittle his opponents is also highly unbecoming of a leader and reflects a lack of moral and ethical standards.
So, why then do a majority of Americans consider President Trump to be conservative? The answer lies in the polarization of American politics. In today’s political climate, people are increasingly aligning themselves with one party or the other, and this has led to a blind adherence to party lines. This blind allegiance has resulted in people overlooking the glaring inconsistencies in Trump’s actions and beliefs and instead, blindly supporting him because he belongs to their preferred party.
Moreover, Trump’s rhetoric and branding as a “conservative outsider” have also contributed to this perception. His anti-establishment stance and promise to “drain the swamp” have resonated with many voters who feel disillusioned with the traditional political system. However, his actions have shown that he is anything but an outsider, with his administration being filled with wealthy and well-connected individuals.
In conclusion, the fact that a majority of Americans consider President Trump to be conservative is a clear indication of the polarization and tribalism that has taken over American politics. It is essential for people to look beyond party lines and critically analyze a leader’s actions and policies. Blindly labeling someone as conservative or liberal based on their party affiliation only serves to further divide the country. As responsible citizens, it is our duty to hold our leaders accountable and demand that they uphold the core principles and values that define our nation.
