Republicans, on occasion, like to refer to themselves as a “big tent” party. For sure, there are many different factions that make up today’s GOP. There are evangelicals, teabaggers, moderates, establishment types, NRA loyalists and libertarians, just to name the most prominent groups. Sometimes these groups overlap; sometimes they are diametrically opposed to one another.
But there is one common element that holds this sprawling group of competing interests together … hate.
Whether it’s hatred of immigrants, Muslims, blacks, intellectuals, a woman’s right to control her own body, programs that help the poor and working poor, there it is, hate, weaving this complex mix of conservative Americans together.
The GOP is not a party of ideas. Well, at least not ideas that improve the lives of the citizens they are elected to represent. They are very good at legislating discrimination in the guise of religious freedom. They are highly skilled at denying certain segments of society their constitutional rights, such as the right to vote.
Even when hatred causes severe economic losses for their states, Republican legislators and governors are happy to pass laws that legalize hatred and discrimination. The so-called party of “business, jobs and economic growth” would rather cater to the prejudices and bigotry of its base than improve the lives of its constituents.
The rise of Donald is a direct result of the latent racism, homophobia and xenophobia the Republican Party has been fanning for years. But unlike previous Republican politicians, Trump threw out the dog whistle and went directly for the red meat. It was no coincidence that Trump kicked off his campaign by calling Mexicans “drug dealers, criminals and rapists.”
From that first Trump press conference, it has been a continuous rise for the man who wants to deport 11 million illegal immigrants. Trump has clearly positioned himself as the prohibitive favorite to becoming the Republican presidential nominee because his hate-filled message resonates with a majority of Republicans.
But playing on people’s fears, prejudices and anxieties is not a good, long-term governing philosophy.
“I have just one word for Mr. Trump: Basta,” Hillary Clinton said not too long ago. “Enough is enough. He’s been trafficking in prejudice and paranoia and it’s bad for our politics and bad for our country.”
Of course Clinton is right, but without hatred, what would Republicans have to bind them together?
Let’s call a spade a spade. The Republican Party is today America’s largest hate group.
Photo | the-discourses.blogspot.com
Harry Walton says
Why are conservatives such advocates for the Second Amendment? They see violence particularly gun violence as a legitimate means to enforce their hegemony.
John DeProspo says
Oh those Second Amendment remedies Sharon Angle spoke so passionately about!
Frank Little says
Yes, KKKrazy Glue is what holds the conservative factions together! Without exploiting peoples hate, Repugs have nothing.
John DeProspo says
Yes, KKKrazy glue! Love your comment.
Charlie says
A hate group disguised as a political party
John DeProspo says
Hate has worked well for Republicans over the years. But it has gotten to be a losing message in national elections. Let’s hope that trend continues in all elections.
Harry Walton says
It should come as no surprise that the Imperial Wizard and the KKK just announced they are backing the racist billionaire Trump.
John DeProspo says
That should boost his overall support!