The NPR Politics Podcast Belonging, Money, Duty? Inside Account Of Why GOP Pros Backed Trump
Dec 26, 2022
Tim Miller, a former Republican operative who worked with Jeb Bush and Jon Huntsman, shares his insights on the GOP's support for Trump in a candid conversation. He discusses the conflict between political loyalty and personal ethics during the turbulent 2016 election. Miller reflects on the performative nature of political rhetoric and how media influences shifted the party towards radicalism. He also addresses the unique challenges faced by gay Republicans grappling with their identities amid a changing political landscape.
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Tim Miller's Republican Roots
- Tim Miller's career began in high school, interning for Colorado Governor Bill Owens.
- He later worked on various Republican campaigns, including John McCain's and Mitt Romney's.
Beyond Money and Power
- Miller's book explores why Republican professionals supported Trump, going beyond simple explanations of money and power.
- It delves into the "gray areas" and the motivations behind supporting harmful actions.
Inertia and Identity in Politics
- Inertia and identity are key factors influencing political decisions.
- People get stuck in careers and political identities, making it hard to deviate, even when feeling uneasy.
