The rise of political figures can often be traced back to the support of marginalized groups, and Donald Trump’s presidency is no different. He garnered significant backing from low-income white individuals, even as he implemented policies that seemingly undermined their well-being, such as tax cuts for the wealthy and attempts to strip health care from millions. His administration also weakened protections against exploitation by lenders and restricted access to essential programs like food assistance. Despite his history as a bankrupt businessman and reality TV personality, he positioned himself as a champion for these voters. But why do they rally behind him, even to the point of storming the Capitol?
The Belief in Rewarding Hard Work
America’s Puritan roots foster a belief in meritocracy: hard work leads to success. For many low-income whites, this notion is fundamental. If they’re struggling, they either haven’t received what they deserve or are perceived as lazy. This belief drives the narrative that their hard work will eventually yield better lives than their parents had. When results don’t align with effort, it’s easier to blame external factors, often exploited by Trump, such as immigrants or social movements like Black Lives Matter. He redirects their frustrations toward perceived threats, reinforcing the idea that their struggles stem from these ‘outsiders.’
The Value of Wealth
Conversely, wealth is often viewed as a sign of merit and hard work, regardless of its origins. Figures like Oprah Winfrey, despite not being white, are admired for their success. Trump, with his history of wealth and fame, fits into this narrative. He is seen by low-income whites as a reflection of their ideals: a self-made man who embodies the “real America,” reinforcing their belief that hard work should equate to financial success.
The Stigma of Poverty
Many low-income individuals feel shame around their financial status and often strive to appear more affluent than they are. This behavior is driven by societal judgment, leading them to make questionable financial decisions to maintain a façade of wealth. They aspire to own luxury items, believing that material possessions can elevate their social standing. In this context, they see themselves as “temporarily embarrassed millionaires,” identifying with Trump’s past wealth and influence, fueling their dreams of upward mobility.
The Illusion of Social Status
Engaging in solidarity with marginalized groups, such as BIPOC communities, could lead to improvements in labor conditions and wages. However, many low-income whites resist this alliance, fearing a loss of perceived social status. They benefit from systemic inequalities that afford them privileges, such as better law enforcement treatment and access to superior education, further entrenching the belief that they are more industrious than their BIPOC counterparts.
A Misguided American Dream
The support for Trump among low-income whites stems from a complex narrative that conflates the American Dream with capitalism. Trump embodies their frustrations and claims to understand the struggles they face, reinforcing their belief that the system has wronged them. They cling to the idea that their hardships are the result of external forces rather than a failure of their own narrative. This intertwining of meritocracy, poverty-shaming, and racism has culminated in widespread discontent, manifesting in significant political upheaval.
In summary, the situation of low-income white individuals is marked by a complex interplay of beliefs, societal pressures, and systemic inequalities. Their support for political figures like Trump is rooted in a desire for validation and recognition of their struggles, often misdirected toward scapegoats rather than the structural issues at play.