The Next Big Idea Daily The Urban-Rural Divide Is Smaller Than You Think
Nov 21, 2024
Elizabeth Currid-Halkett, a public policy professor at USC and author of "The Overlooked Americans," shares insights from her extensive research on small-town America. She debunks myths about the political beliefs of rural citizens, revealing a surprising alignment with urban values on equality and government support. Currid-Halkett emphasizes the diverse identities within rural communities and highlights the economic opportunities often ignored by mainstream narratives. Her perspective invites a deeper understanding of the rural-urban divide.
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Shared Values
- Rural and urban Americans share similar values regarding equality, democracy, and family.
- Rural Americans demonstrate comparable, if not greater, support for social policies uplifting marginalized groups.
Republican Voting Trend
- Rural America's Republican voting trend predates Trump, influenced by factors beyond economic anxieties.
- Cultural alignment and a sense of belonging play a significant role in their political choices.
Engaging Rural Voters
- Recognize that many rural voters, regardless of party, vote out of habit or general support, not fervent ideology.
- To connect with rural voters, avoid condescending attitudes and acknowledge their values.
