Why People Still Support Donald Trump and Disapprove of Biden/Harris

The election fervor and political climate remain incredibly polarized, with a significant portion of the American electorate still supporting former President Donald Trump over the current Democratic administration led by President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris. This article delves into the reasons behind this support and the underlying sentiments that drive such positions, including the role of cognitive dissonance, political propaganda, and alternative information sources.

Cognitive Dissonance: When Truth Becomes Subjective

A notable phenomenon underlying the support for Trump is the concept of cognitive dissonance. This psychological principle posits that individuals feel uncomfortable when they hold two contradictory beliefs, ideas, or values simultaneously. In the context of politics, this can manifest as a refusal to acknowledge or accept facts that contradict one’s pre-existing beliefs, even when clear evidence presents itself.

For example, supporters of Trump may interpret his poorly-scripted interviews as a direct demonstration of his honesty and fearlessness, while his detractors might interpret it as incompetence. In the case of Trump, his candid (and often controversial) tweets and public statements are rationalized as authenticity, while his opponents see them as the very antithesis of presidential decorum and even evidence of suspicious behavior.

The prevalence of cognitive dissonance leads many to double down on their support for Trump, viewing his controversies and shortcomings as just another facet of his ‘measured, uncensored’ personality. On the other hand, his opponents often label these behaviors as clear indicators of incompetence, unfitness, or even criminality.

Political Propaganda and Mainstream Media Criticism

The critique of Trump from many in the mainstream media has been heavily politicized, often seen as a tool of the Democratic Party. Claims that critics are part of a 'propaganda arm' reflect a broader distrust of traditional news outlets in favor of alternative sources.

Supporters of Trump argue that the entrenched media has failed to report accurately or completely, pointing to what they perceive as a bias against him. This viewpoint aligns with the narrative of a decline in the credibility and reliability of mainstream media, as highlighted by the rise of alternative news sources and diverse viewpoints.

The discrepancy in how different political affiliations perceive the same set of actions or statements further emphasizes the role of cognitive dissonance. Many believe that Hollywood, the deep state, or the Washington elite tailor narratives to fit their political agendas, making it clear to them that ‘they’ are the true enemy.

Advocating for Alternative Information Sources

With the decline of traditional media’s credibility, many Trump supporters are turning to alternative sources of information. They argue that mainstream media is systematically discrediting the Trump administration, leading to a mistrust in government and established institutions.

Alternative sources like cable news networks and social media platforms provide a platform for voices that they perceive as more authentic and less biased. These sources often highlight stories that mainstream media overlooks or downplays, further reinforcing the perception that the broader media landscape is not serving the public interest.

The Best Alternatives to Mainstream Media

Exploring alternative information sources has become integral to many Trump supporters, who argue that they are serving a vital role in exposing alleged injustices and providing a more balanced perspective. Some popular options include:

Alternative News Outlets: Websites and podcasts that focus on bringing diverse, often investigative, perspectives to the forefront. Examples include The Daily caller and Breitbart News. Local News Sources: Many areas have local news outlets that are less beholden to the national media agenda and offer more localized, in-depth reporting. Social Media Platforms: Platforms like Facebook and Twitter are often used to share and discuss a wide range of news and information, leading to a more fragmented media landscape with fewer gatekeepers.

These alternatives provide a platform for a broader spectrum of voices, arguing that they offer more accurate and honest coverage. However, it’s crucial to evaluate the credibility and reliability of these sources, as not all provide balanced and factual information.

Critics' Views of Biden and Harris

Critics argue that current President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris do not represent the progressive ideals they campaigned on and have failed to uphold the constitution and democratic principles. Proponents of this viewpoint often highlight several specific issues:

Jeff Sessions Resignation: Calls for Sessions' resignation early in the Biden administration are seen as indicative of a failure to uphold democratic principles and an overreach of power. Second Amendment Concerns: Some critics argue that both Biden and Harris are not strong enough supporters of the Second Amendment, leading to a rise in gun violence and a lack of security. Mental Competence: Claims that Biden is no longer mentally competent and incapable of handling unscripted interviews suggest a broader criticism of his leadership abilities and judgment.

While the arguments against Biden and Harris are varied and complex, they highlight a deep divide in American politics and a mistrust in leadership.

Conclusion

The continued support for Donald Trump among segments of the American populace, particularly those who find fault with the Biden/Harris administration, reflects a broader pattern of cognitive dissonance and political polarization. The role of political propaganda and the decline of traditional media credibility are key factors in shaping these views.

While alternative information sources offer a platform for a broader range of perspectives, it's essential to critically evaluate the reliability and accuracy of these sources. Ultimately, the continued support for Trump and the disapproval of Biden/Harris underscore the deep-rooted differences in political ideologies and values within American society.