Interesting Times with Ross Douthat Why Trump’s Blood-and-Guts Strategy Worked
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Jul 3, 2025 
In this engaging conversation, Reihan Salam, the President of the Manhattan Institute for Policy Research, discusses his insights on the evolving Republican Party and its appeal to blue-collar voters. They dissect Trump's 'blood and guts' strategy that disrupted traditional politics, alongside reflections on past GOP dynamics and the Tea Party's impact. Salam highlights the necessity for a modern conservative approach to address economic inequality and the changing electorate. With personal anecdotes, they also explore friendship amidst political discourse.
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Trump's 'Blood and Guts' Appeal
- Trump's strength lay in a "blood and guts" directional message focusing on immigration and public safety.
- This resonated as a rejection of elites not listening to working-class Americans' concerns.
Trump's Electoral Impact in 2016
- Trump boosted the Republican vote among white working-class Americans beyond prior expectations.
- However, he didn't build a pan-ethnic working-class majority, winning without popular vote majority.
Trump's First Term Coalition Shift
- Trump's first term saw material gains among Hispanic voters and urban counties despite COVID chaos.
- His presidency galvanized a fragmented center-right in opposition to a powerful left cultural apparatus.
