The Trump Supporters Who Didn’t Take Him at His Word - The Atlantic

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Key Arguments

The article centers on the unexpected negative reactions of several groups who voted for Trump despite his explicitly stated policies. These groups include Arab Americans, Venezuelan Americans, Kentucky educators, police unions, and business leaders, all of whom were negatively impacted by policies they previously seemed to support.

Key Groups Affected

  • Arab Americans: Shocked and betrayed by Trump's plan to occupy and develop the Gaza Strip.
  • Venezuelan Americans: Outraged by the ending of Temporary Protected Status, despite assurances during the campaign.
  • Kentucky Educators: Aghast at the cuts to federal funding for education, despite Trump's promise to abolish the Department of Education.
  • Fraternal Order of Police: Decried Trump's decision to pardon January 6 rioters, contradicting his campaign promises.
  • Business Leaders: Chagrined by Trump's serious stance on tariffs and government spending cuts.

Predictable Consequences

The author argues that these negative consequences were predictable, citing Trump's past actions and statements. The article mentions Trump's inflationary policies – tariffs and mass deportations – and suggests the current inflation shouldn't have been a surprise. The author uses the 'Leopards Eating People's Faces' meme to illustrate the irony of supporters being negatively affected by policies they actively supported.

Trump's Economic Promises

Trump's promises to end inflation are highlighted as unrealistic, given his policy proposals. The article points out that his proposed tariffs and mass deportation would likely increase inflation, and despite some initial skepticism regarding his claims in 2016, the lack of surprise is emphasized.

Conclusion

The article concludes by stating that the negative reactions from Trump's supporters are not entirely unexpected, given his history and clearly stated policies. The author emphasizes that there's no longer a valid excuse for surprise, considering Trump's past presidential term.

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