Summary
Delve into Donald Trump’s enduring strategy, exploring the evolution of ‘I’m Rubber. You’re Glue.’ as it dominates his narrative, especially in the context of the 2024 campaign.
Days before the Iowa caucuses, Donald J. Trump strategically appears in court, framing President Biden as a threat to democracy. This echoes Trump’s long-used tactic: when accused, flip the narrative and accuse opponents.
This approach, rooted in Trump’s business and political life, relies on moral relativism. By implying everyone is corrupt, Trump aims to steer cynical voters towards comparing candidates on issues like the economy and immigration.
His method stretches across various aspects of public life, including democracy. Trump’s claims, though outlandish, serve his political interests. Recent efforts to disrupt the peaceful transfer of power become a central theme in his 2024 campaign.
This familiar tactic involves shifting blame and creating a sense of moral equivalence. When accused of racism, Trump called Hillary Clinton the true “bigot.” When labeled “trigger-happy,” he dubbed Clinton “very unstable.” This approach aims to create confusion and erode confidence in opponents.
Now, Trump adapts this tactic to address his vulnerability – his attempts to undermine the 2020 election. His campaign introduces the slogan “Biden Against Democracy,” suggesting Mr. Biden is orchestrating investigations against him.
Steve Bannon, Trump’s former chief strategist, sees the strategy differently. “If you can fight Biden almost to a draw on this, which I think you can, it’s over,” Mr. Bannon said in an interview, referring to the imperiling of American democracy. “He’s got nothing else he can pitch. This is his main thing.”
Mr. Bannon added, “If Biden wants to fight there, about democracy and all this kind of ephemeral stuff, Trump will go there in a second.”
While Trump also targets Hunter Biden’s alleged corruption, some advisers see more potential in the “Biden Against Democracy” theme. They recognize that focusing on Hunter Biden might not significantly sway voters.
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Trump’s repetition and consistency in this messaging play a crucial role. Bannon notes its power, emphasizing the constant drumbeat of the narrative. However, critics argue that convincing people in a general election, especially about Trump’s lies regarding Jan. 6, 2021, remains challenging.
The polling indicates Trump has made headway with his base, shaping their perception of democracy’s threat. However, convincing a broader audience in a general election poses a formidable challenge, particularly if the Jan. 6 trial unfolds close to the election.
As Trump clings to his familiar tactic, its effectiveness beyond his base remains uncertain in the broader context of a national election.