Trump World Makes the Case Against Trump - The Atlantic

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Contradictory Reactions within MAGA World

The article discusses the divided responses within the MAGA movement to the economic fallout of Donald Trump's tariffs. While some remain steadfast in their unwavering support, even in the face of market crashes, others are grappling with the consequences, yet still avoid directly criticizing Trump.

Maintaining Faith in Trump's Infallibility

Figures like Jeanine Pirro and Jack Posobiec express unwavering loyalty, prioritizing their belief in Trump over personal financial losses. This echoes the sentiment expressed by Representative Troy Nehls, who asserted that Trump is never wrong.

Attempts to Shift Blame

Individuals like Bill Ackman initially expressed doubt, blaming his own assumptions, but quickly retracted any direct criticism of Trump. Others, such as Elon Musk, engaged in indirect criticism by highlighting the free trade ideas of Milton Friedman, leading to conflict with trade advisor Peter Navarro.

The Strategy of Indirect Criticism

The article highlights the strategies used by Trump supporters to express concerns without directly challenging Trump's authority. This includes blaming advisors and employing flattery, as seen in Bill Ackman's attempts to balance criticism with loyalty. The core principle remains to avoid any direct blame on Trump himself.

The Unquestionable Position of Trump

The ultimate conclusion is that within the MAGA movement, holding Trump accountable is considered unacceptable. Senator Thom Tillis's question at a Senate hearing demonstrates the ingrained understanding that Trump cannot be held responsible for the consequences of his actions. The inability to criticize or hold him accountable underscores the power of Trump's influence and the structure of the MAGA ideology.

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