American Amnesia with Tressie McMillan Cottom [VIDEO]
Mar 27, 2025
auto_awesome
In this lively conversation, sociologist and author Tressie McMillan Cottom dives into the perplexing psychology behind American voters who often back candidates with opposing views. Alongside Trevor Noah, she humorously critiques Donald Trump’s Tesla infomercial and discusses the ways our appreciation for rights can wane before they’re lost. The trio also tackles the intersection of race, class, and gender within party politics, highlighting the contradictions liberals face today, and reflects on the necessity of diverse narratives in shaping modern activism.
Tressie McMillan Cottom highlights the disconnect between politicians and ordinary citizens, explaining why unconventional candidates like Trump resonate more effectively with certain voters.
The discussion reveals that voters often align with one party due to limited choices, obscuring their broader values and creating a need for more nuanced political discourse.
Trevor Noah and guests emphasize the importance of understanding generational amnesia regarding struggles for rights, advocating for awareness to protect these liberties for future generations.
Deep dives
The Convenience of Apple Card
The Apple Card offers a simple and private payment method with an easy application process that can be done in minutes. Users can check their credit limit and start using it immediately with Apple Pay, making it convenient for everyday purchases. One of the appealing features is earning up to 3% daily cashback on transactions, which can be deposited into a high-yield savings account. This enables users to maximize their savings and make their money work for them.
Understanding Voter Sentiment
There is a notable disconnect between politicians and the feelings of ordinary people, particularly in cultural aspects. Acknowledging this gap can help clarify why certain voters may support unconventional candidates like Trump, who seems to resonate more closely with their sentiments. Observations reveal that while understanding voters is crucial, it may not be necessary to act on their behalf; accurately observing their preferences might suffice. This indicates a complex relationship where politicians often underestimate the cultural undercurrents influencing voter behavior.
Trump's Unique Political Approach
Trump's ability to articulate straightforward messages resonates effectively with his base, as he often addresses problems bluntly rather than complicating issues. His political instincts allow him to navigate sensitive topics without overstepping boundaries that might alienate his supporters. This technique contrasts sharply with political opponents who may spend more time analyzing issues than addressing them directly, causing them to lose touch with everyday concerns. The stark differences in communication strategies highlight why Trump maintains a strong following, regardless of the criticisms he faces.
The Dynamics of Political Choice
The current political landscape in America often forces voters to align with one party due to the binary nature of the issues presented. Many individuals identify single-issue preferences but find themselves choosing the party that represents those interests, even when it conflicts with their broader values. This dynamic can obscure the realization that political options can and should be more nuanced, allowing for a spectrum of beliefs rather than strict adherence to a singular party line. Expanding political discourse beyond binary options could lead to more representative governance.
Reflecting on Progress and Heritage
The generational amnesia about the struggles leading to present-day liberties can hinder appreciation of those advancements. Younger generations, who benefit from past progress without experiencing the hardships that prompted such movements, often take these privileges for granted. This disconnect can lead to a lack of awareness regarding the ongoing struggles faced by marginalized groups and the importance of protecting their rights. Understanding the origins of these rights is vital for ensuring that future generations do not overlook the significance of maintaining them.
Tressie McMillan Cottom is back on the podcast. Tressie, Trevor, and Christiana discuss Donald Trump’s Tesla infomercial at the White House, the psychology of the American voter, and why so many of us unwittingly vote for candidates whose views are actually the opposite of ours. The three also explore our tendency to not appreciate what we have until it’s gone, and how that ties into America’s current war on women.
