Trump’s success comes from exploiting divisions

The Republican National Convention, held last week in Cleveland, ended with Donald Trump as the party’s choice to run for president.

This comes at a time when Americans are sharply divided by race, culture and finances. The fact this man could become the next president of the United States is worrisome.

For sure, he is an extremely polarizing figure, but he has come to represent the divisions in America, and will take full advantage of these divisions in order to achieve the potential presidency.

While the emphasis in America tends to be on racial or cultural discrimination, poverty seems to be overlooked. It is probably true to an extent that black people, or other non-whites, have less of an opportunity than established white people for better jobs or enhanced employment opportunities.

Trump will argue America is the land of opportunity for anyone. The reality undoubtedly suggests otherwise. Many cities in America have a divide between rich and poor, black and white. How much of that is interrelated tends to be disregarded.

Oversimplification of an idea is a Trump strength. So, too, is repeating a belief over and over again. Mantras in politics that gain traction, garner votes. Answering questions with mantra statements tends to alleviate most attempts at pursuing details or in-depth analysis from questioners or reporters, which Trump uses to his advantage.

‘Truthful hyperbole’ is a Trump saying and it represents him to a tee. Partial truths of statements are emphasized while downplaying the less factual evidence.

In particular, the more divisive the statement, seemingly, the more likely he is to actually gain supporters. And in the face of criticism, Trump and his supporters tend to rally. He has become the real-life figure of nostalgic white discontent, enabling divisions to not only fester but to grow.

Hiding behind ‘political incorrectness’ has allowed racially charged statements to be uttered too often. The danger from speaking in racially charged tones is real. Groups that want only whites in America could gain ground, and the divisions within America will almost certainly multiply, not lessen.

Polarizing politicians tend to have a select group of supporters that are not inclusive. Specifically excluding people, within America, on the grounds of colour, race, or culture is damaging to a world that needs to become substantially more inclusive. Trump is a superb salesman. He sells himself better than anyone, and his belief in himself is extraordinary.

What is less impressive are the beliefs he espouses, primarily in small sound bites.

Hopefully, the American people, and Canadians, will listen to Trump and finally start to question in detail what he truly represents.