RW Johnson: Why so many Americans support Trump for a return to the White House

Oxford Don, political scientist and the BizNews community's favourite columnist, RW Johnson, explores the rise of Donald Trump and the fervent support he garners, attributing it to a changing demographic landscape in the United States. Drawing on Samuel Huntington's 2004 book, "Who Are We?", Johnson highlights the historical foundation of American identity rooted in white, British, Protestant, and Puritan heritage. He argues that the influx of Hispanic immigrants, particularly Mexicans, challenges this identity, fostering a nativist movement embodied by Trump's base. Johnson contends that Trump's appeal lies in his rejection of multiculturalism and promise to restore a perceived golden age.

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By R.W. Johnson

How to understand the Trump phenomenon

The shadow of Donald Trump already lies heavily across the international scene. Yet many people are still mystified by Trump. How did it happen that this politically illiterate businessman with no previous political base or experience was able – out of nowhere – to capture first the Republican nomination and then the USA ? And now he looks capable of doing it again. And why are his followers so fanatical ? When George Bush Sr. was running for re-election in 1992 Trump offered himself as Vice President. Bush thought he was mad and threw his letter in the bin. That was the conventional judgement then. So what changed ?

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