In a captivating discussion, Jamelle Bouie, an Opinion columnist for The New York Times, dives into the lessons the 1890s can teach us about today’s political climate. He unpacks Donald Trump’s surprising admiration for President McKinley, examining how this reflects shifting cultural attitudes. The conversation explores the tensions between elitism and populism, the impact of tech industry ambitions, and the echoes of the Gilded Age in modern society. Bouie highlights how past ideologies are reshaping our current political landscape.
Trump's admiration for McKinley reflects a strategic alignment with historical populist themes amidst rising economic inequality in modern America.
The tech industry's support for Trump highlights an ideological shift towards elitism, undermining democratic values in favor of concentrated wealth and power.
Deep dives
Trump's Historical Influence: The McKinley Connection
Donald Trump's recent comments about President William McKinley highlight an attempt to align himself with historical figures in a symbolic manner. Rather than have a deep-rooted political vision, Trump appears to be using McKinley's name to bolster his identity as a prominent Republican leader. This connection is particularly notable given the historical context of the late 19th century, which saw significant cultural and economic transformation, marked by mass immigration and rising wealth concentrations that resonate with today's political climate. Trump’s focus on McKinley, especially his tariff policies, suggests a desire to reclaim certain populist themes while drawing parallels to the challenges of modern America.
The New Gilded Age and America's Political Landscape
The discussion emphasizes striking similarities between the late 19th-century Gilded Age and contemporary America, with a notable rise in economic inequality and political influence among the wealthy. The era marked the onset of American imperialism, and Trump’s admiration for McKinley reflects a broader ambition resembling this historical pivot, aiming for unchecked concentration of wealth among the powerful. Moreover, the idea that we might be striving for a new Gilded Age poses questions about societal values, where the negative aspects of that period inadvertently gain positive connotations in current political rhetoric. Ultimately, this dynamic raises concerns about the potential consequences of embracing elitism under the guise of populism.
The Influence of Tech Elites on Political Ideologies
The conversation reveals how tech industry leaders are increasingly drawn to Trump's leadership, driven by both material incentives and ideological alignments. As tech executives seek favorable regulatory conditions, they find common ground with Trump's anti-labor stance, positioning themselves against worker activism in their companies. The philosophical undercurrents informing this relationship, particularly through thinkers like Curtis Yarvin, promote a disdain for democracy in favor of a new elite, which resonates with the tech oligarchs' desires. This alignment not only challenges democratic norms but also reinforces the idea that concentrated wealth can effectively shape political landscapes to preserve their interests.
What can the 1890s tell us about 21st-century problems and a second Trump administration? According to the Opinion columnist Jamelle Bouie, quite a lot. In this episode, he speaks with Aaron Retica, an editor in Opinion, about what the 19th century and Donald Trump’s surprising new favorite president can tell us about our shifting culture.
Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com.
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