The Perceived and Real Benefits of a Trump Administration to the Dominant Culture of the US

Trump speaks to a crowd that either is like him in one way or another, or that aspires to be

I endeavored to explore the "why" behind a Trump presidential victory.  There is a lot of online and in-person rhetoric and division about who the Trump voter is, and what their vote symbolizes. There is a caricature of who the Trump loyalist is in the eyes of the opposition and so I simply wanted to delve more into this conjecture. The final popular vote was so very close, Trump's 49.81% to Harris' 48.34%, that I wanted to tease out assumptions about who Trump appealed to. Like an ethnographer, I wanted to start my come from that Americans as a population are reasonable, though complex, and acknowledge that often (always? mostly?) humans are driven by emotion and culture.

The election of Donald Trump in 2024 and the onset of his 2025 presidency mark a pivotal moment in American political and cultural discourse. A second Trump administration brings with it a set of policies and rhetoric that resonate deeply with the dominant cultural narratives in the United States, particularly those that align with the experiences of white American men.

However, Trump’s path to victory also illuminates another key voting bloc: middle- and upper-class individuals who, while perhaps less enamored with Trump himself, prioritized Republican policies they viewed as beneficial to their financial and lifestyle interests. These two distinct groups—Trump loyalists and pragmatic voters eyeing broader Republican goals—together secured the 2024 Republican victory. My discussion here explores the real and perceived benefits of a Trump 2025 presidency to these groups, analyzing the intersections of economic security, cultural preservation, resistance to progressive ideologies, affirmation of traditional masculinity, and financial incentives.

Trump's Appeal Rooted in Class

Not Necessarily a Vote For, but a Vote Against the Other

In addition to his appeal to blue-collar workers, Trump and Republican-backed candidates often attract middle- and upper-class voters with policies that align with their financial priorities and lifestyle preferences. Tax cuts and financial incentives are a key strategy, with reductions in income taxes, capital gains taxes, and business taxes directly benefiting high earners, entrepreneurs, and property owners. These policies provide tangible financial benefits, making Trump’s platform attractive even to those who traditionally lean toward more progressive social ideologies.

Deregulation is another significant draw for middle- and upper-class voters, particularly those in entrepreneurial or corporate roles. By reducing regulatory hurdles, these policies create a business-friendly environment that fosters growth and profitability. Additionally, school choice programs such as vouchers and charter school initiatives appeal to families seeking alternatives to public education, ensuring access to high-quality schooling options for their children.

Rhetoric emphasizing law and order also resonates with suburban and affluent voters, who prioritize community stability and property values. Policies focused on national security and strong borders further appeal to those who value sovereignty and view immigration control as essential to preserving cultural and economic cohesion that sees these classes remaining dominant.

In the context of gender, the concept of linked fate can explain why some women may vote in ways that align with their class or family identity rather than their gender identity. If a woman perceives her choices are more directly tied to her family’s economic status or to maintaining the cultural power of a particular group, she may prioritize those interests over policies promoting gender equity. For instance, a middle- or upper-class woman might prioritize economic policies benefiting her household over access to reproductive healthcare, if she perceives her family’s financial stability as more critical to her own personal well-being.

Buy In of Trump's Vision

Trump’s victory in the 2024 election serves as a compelling testament to the profound influence of two distinctly characterized groups within the electorate: his unwavering loyal base, which not only embraces his provocative rhetoric but also aligns itself with his broader cultural vision, and a separate cohort of pragmatic voters who are attracted to the Republican platform primarily for its perceived financial benefits and policy priorities. This duality within Trump's support base reveals a complex interplay of motivations that drive individuals to the polls in his favor.

At the heart of Trump's loyal base lies a deep-seated allegiance that transcends mere political affiliation. These supporters are often characterized by their strong emotional connection to Trump's persona, viewing him as a champion of their values and beliefs. This group is typically galvanized by his bold statements and unfiltered communication style, which they perceive as a refreshing departure from traditional political discourse. They resonate with his emphasis on nationalism, a critique of political correctness, and his commitment to prioritizing American interests. This fervent support manifests in various forms, from enthusiastic attendance at rallies to active engagement on social media platforms, where they passionately defend his policies and rhetoric against critics.

On the other hand, the cohort of pragmatic voters represents a more calculated approach to their electoral choices. These individuals may not share the same emotional fervor as Trump's loyal base, but they are drawn to the Republican platform due to its alignment with their economic aspirations and policy preferences. This group often evaluates candidates based on concrete outcomes, such as tax reforms, job creation, and economic stability. (See previous posts on techno-billionaires who support the Trump administration.)

They view Trump's leadership as a (perhaps distasteful) means to achieve financial security. Influenced by the party's stance, they have significant buy-in on issues like deregulation, fiscal conservatism, and support for business initiatives. Their support for Trump is, therefore, rooted in a pragmatic assessment of how his administration can potentially enhance their economic well-being and promote a favorable business environment. Emotion is still very present in this voter, which drives retention of their dominant culture status. After all, the classes that are "winning" at the game of life in America will rationally support systems that aim to reinforce the game's rules.

The Dominant Culture Loyalist Fanbase

Economic Security and Opportunity

At the core of Trump’s appeal lies his commitment to economic revitalization, particularly for industries that have long been symbolic of traditional American labor. His "America First" agenda prioritizes domestic manufacturing, energy independence, and reduced globalization. These policies have tangible benefits for workers in industries such as coal, steel, and oil, where white men make up a significant portion of the labor force. By reducing regulations and promoting fossil fuel production, Trump promises to protect jobs that are often seen as the backbone of the American economy.

The perception of economic security under Trump extends beyond job creation. For many of his supporters, these policies symbolize a return to an era when economic opportunities were more abundant for blue-collar workers. This nostalgia fosters a sense of dignity and pride in their work, reinforcing their belief in Trump as a leader who prioritizes their well-being. While critics argue that such industries face inevitable decline due to global trends and environmental concerns, the administration’s rhetoric ensures that these workers feel seen and valued.

Cultural Preservation and Identity

Trump’s focus on patriotic education and the preservation of historical landmarks taps into a broader desire to maintain a cultural identity rooted in traditional American values. His calls for "restoring patriotic education" aim to emphasize the nation’s founding principles and celebrate its achievements, countering what many perceive as a progressive rewriting of history. This resonates particularly with white men who see themselves as cultural stewards of the nation’s heritage.

Policies such as renaming landmarks—for example, reverting Denali back to Mount McKinley—serve as symbolic gestures that reinforce a sense of cultural continuity. For Trump’s supporters, these actions are more than political theater; they represent a defense against cultural erosion. By prioritizing these initiatives, the administration validates the belief that their history and contributions are essential to the national narrative, fostering a sense of pride and belonging.

Resistance to Progressive Ideologies

One of the defining characteristics of Trump’s rhetoric is his opposition to "woke" ideologies and progressive social movements. For many of his supporters, this resistance is perceived as a defense of common sense and fairness against what they see as divisive identity politics. White men, in particular, often feel alienated by discussions of privilege and systemic inequities that, in their view, cast them as villains in contemporary cultural narratives.

Trump’s rhetoric against political correctness, cancel culture, and his promise to defeat the "woke mob" provide his supporters with a sense of validation. By challenging progressive norms, he positions himself as a champion of free speech and traditional values. This alignment with their beliefs creates an emotional connection, empowering individuals who feel sidelined by the broader cultural shift toward inclusivity and diversity.

Affirmation of Traditional Masculinity

The Trump administration’s emphasis on the nuclear family and traditional gender roles directly appeals to those who value traditional masculinity. Policies promoting the role of fathers and celebrating the family as a societal cornerstone resonate with men who see their roles as providers and protectors increasingly challenged by evolving gender dynamics.

For white men who feel displaced or marginalized in this cultural shift, Trump’s rhetoric offers a reaffirmation of their importance. The portrayal of masculinity as essential to societal stability aligns with their self-image and fosters a renewed sense of purpose. By emphasizing these values, the administration not only validates their contributions but also counters feelings of alienation, creating a cultural environment where they feel central rather than peripheral.

National Sovereignty and Security

Immigration control and national security remain cornerstones of Trump’s platform, appealing to voters who prioritize safety, sovereignty, and cultural cohesion. Policies aimed at securing the border and reducing illegal immigration are perceived as protecting American jobs and maintaining the nation’s identity.

For white men in particular, these initiatives symbolize a defense of their communities against external threats. The emphasis on strong borders and a robust military fosters a sense of pride in the nation’s ability to assert itself on the global stage. This narrative reinforces their belief in the importance of protecting the American way of life, further solidifying their support for Trump.

Author's Note

For transparency, and as is evidenced by my written biases towards subject matter, I have opinions about most of the topics covered to date. These are the pop culture nuggets that have come up in my real conversations. Though I've attempted to put myself in the shoes of the general population, it would be a missed opportunity if I didn't speak to some ideas that caused an emotional response in me. After all, this is my platform and I've done the research. Disclosure noted and off we go.

Speaking to Trump’s fan-voter base, I must raise questions about the version of "traditional" America that is being recalled and reinforced by the dominant culture. Historically, the United States has marginalized and excluded many groups from full participation in economic and social opportunities—including women, Black Americans, Indigenous Peoples, non-Western European immigrants, and other minorities.

Census data paints a vivid picture of how America has transformed since 1955. While the mid-20th century saw a nation largely defined as a white, Christian majority, today's America continues to be a tapestry woven from many threads. The 1960s marked a significant turning point in the way the U.S. Census identified and included various demographic groups, particularly Black and Indigenous populations. Prior to this decade, these groups often faced undercounting and misrepresentation. Several key changes in the census process began to illuminate their presence more accurately.

Legal and social movements, such as the Civil Rights Movement, gained momentum during the 1960s, advocating for the rights and recognition of Black Americans and raised awareness about the importance of accurate demographic representation.

Policy changes, including the Voting Rights Act of 1965, prompted a greater emphasis on ensuring that marginalized communities were counted in the census. The Census Bureau also adopted improved methodologies and outreach strategies aimed at reaching underrepresented populations, allowing for a more accurate count of Black and Indigenous individuals, facilitating a more nuanced understanding of the American population, highlighting the diversity that existed beyond the white majority. As a result of these efforts, the 1960 Census began to provide a clearer statistical representation of Black and Indigenous populations, laying the groundwork for future censuses to continue this trend of accurate representation.

Immigration, also spurred by policy changes in the 1960s, brought a surge in Hispanic/Latino, Asian American, and Black/African American populations. Coupled with higher birth rates in some minority communities and increasingly common interracial marriages, the face of America is far more diverse than it was 70 years ago.

This shift extends to religious beliefs as well. Though Christianity remains the most prevalent religion, there's a notable rise in those identifying as unaffiliated or adhering to non-Christian faiths.

Furthermore, America is aging, with the Baby Boomer generation entering their senior years and overall fertility rates declining. Geographically, the country's center of gravity is shifting south and west, with the Sun Belt experiencing rapid growth while some areas of the Northeast and Midwest are seeing population declines. These interwoven demographic changes have profound implications for everything from cultural identity and political representation to economic trends and social safety nets.

The final arc in closing this loop of the process of understanding practical and emotional reasons for Trump‘s appeal, is rooted in a goal of application. Only by teasing out the realities of others can we then extrapolate how to create a stronger appeal towards better policies, better candidates, and better institutions that address existing gaps for Americans.

There is a problematic call for a return to a "tradition" that is impossible to restore. By constantly looking backwards, we won't succeed to create a new vision of success that draws from our nation's full and rich resources. Diversity is what offers multi-faceted possibilities, insights, and perspectives. We don't need to override reflective thoughtfulness about our history and reinstitute old narratives in order to preserve an idea of traditional dignity. It is vital to an exciting future to recognize that true progress and abundance lies in our ability to synthesize the wisdom and failings of our heritage and create anew with the innovative spirit of our time. We can choose to be empowered to redefine success and imagine a better American tradition.

If we can’t get out of our own perspective long enough to look beyond the distaste at “the other side,“ then we will continue an ever downward spiral between candidates--and parties--voters are increasingly becoming apathetic towards. If we truly want to be proactive about the devolving state of American politics, it's going to take the work and circumspection of toggling between zoom in and zoom out methods to confront the uncomfortable realities and shortcomings from our own viewpoints. We are most vulnerable when we refuse to diligently reflect. The space between our armor is the place where we will get hurt.

Shine brightly, ask lots of questions, and continue to engage with the world around you.

—Anthro Pop