The Politics of Shamelessness: A Survival Tactic from Trump to Party Loyalty
The article delves into the political shamelessness practiced by politicians, particularly Donald Trump, who flips positions with little regard for previous statements. It explores how such contradictions could be seen as both a liability and an asset for Trump, allowing him to remain relevant among his base while criticizing the lack of a strong Democratic figure to counter his style. The piece underscores how Trump’s political cunning relies on his ability to adapt without apology, generating mixed reactions from different voter demographics.
Every politician has a bit of shamelessness in them—it practically comes with the territory. As they navigate the unpredictable landscape of politics, they often find themselves justifying shifts in their stance. Whether it’s a shift in public opinion, loyalty to party, or pressure from wealthy donors, these explanations can often come off as disingenuous, especially if they’ve done a complete 180 on an issue. If we look at Donald Trump, it’s evident how he has perfected the art of this political maneuvering.
Take Trump’s flip-flop on TikTok, for instance. In interviews, he argued that previously trying to ban it for national security was misguided; now he’s positioning himself as its protector. Sure, you could point out that this change came after he figured out TikTok’s popularity with younger voters. But was it really for the greater good? This change seemed more about saving face and getting votes than a genuine concern for user privacy or tech rivalry.
Trump, it seems, embodies this trait to a greater degree than most. He doesn’t dwell on yesterday’s statements, swinging his opinions with alarming frequency. From pitying Biden over his health issues to publicly attacking him, it’s a wild ride. Ross Douthat rightly noted that Trump’s ability to contradict himself keeps him relevant and appealing to voters who appreciate flexibility, as it presents the illusion of testing limits without crossing lines.
This flexibility, however, steers voters perilously close to a John Kerry-style predicament. Kerry became infamous for his contradictory voting record, which Republican opponents readily seized upon. When we flip to Trump, however, it’s a different tale—collections of pardons that might have exploded into scandal if they had come from a Democrat. The pardon of a notorious gang leader seemed barely acknowledged, signalling the different standards at play.
Biden’s own pardoning decisions have raised eyebrows; he’s also flipped on promises, notably regarding his son Hunter. This duplicity wasn’t met with any less criticism. Trump’s ire, demonstrated when he reacted sharply to a criticism over his nickname “TACO”, reflects his consistent theatre of the absurd—he thrives on bravado.
What’s interesting is that Trump seems to derive strength from being challenged, and his supporters relish the push-and-pull. While his pivots could be looked upon as weaknesses, they might also be seen as him engaging dynamically with the political landscape. With every setback and recalibration, there’s a sense of anticipation among his base, who appreciate how he confronts adversities.
Democrats seem left out in the cold in this narrative, lacking a unifying figure who can counter Trump’s relatability and political finesse. The likes of Hakeem Jeffries and Chuck Schumer don’t resonate enough to galvanize a strong opposition. Maybe that’s why Trump appears so empowered; he plays the game without a hint of shame, which is something his supporters seem to admire although it often feels like political acrobatics.
Original Source: www.foxnews.com
