Unpacking Trump’s Rationalization of His Low Approval Rating

Former US President Donald Trump's low approval rating has been a subject of intrigue and scrutiny for many months. Various factors contribute to this low rating, from political polarization to perceived unethical behavior. One significant aspect is how he rationalizes this low approval among segments of his base and the global audience.

Claiming Facts as Lies: Rationalization Among His Base

According to his base, Donald Trump often claims that facts are lies. This narrative is a pivotal part of his strategy to maintain loyalty among his supporters. For many in this group, the belief in his statements seems more important than empirical evidence or objective truth. They trust in a mindset that labels what they consider as 'facts' as 'lies,' thus sustaining their allegiance to him. This strategy is rooted in a deeply divided society where reality can be subjective and malleable.

Distracting Rants and Delusions: Rationalization for the Wider Audience

For the broader public and the rest of the world, however, Donald Trump struggles to rationalize his low approval rating. Instead of addressing this issue head-on, he often resorts to distracting rants about various unrelated topics. These rants serve to obscure the critical issues at stake, offering the illusion of control over the conversation. By diverting focus, he hopes to maintain a certain level of mainstream credibility.

In an attempt to rebuild his image, he organizes large rallies, which serve as safe spaces where his followers can affirm their beliefs and behaviors. At these events, he is often praised and bolstered, fostering a temporary sense of popularity and intellection. These gatherings provide a psychological boost and reinforce his fanbase's loyalty and admiration.

Divine Right Mentality vs. Ideological Loyalty

At the heart of this issue lies a fundamental difference in how one views leadership. Trump often presents himself as a figure of divine right, believing his presidency is a divine decree. This worldview is reminiscent of past royalty and the divine right of kings - a concept where leaders claim their power is sanctioned by a higher authority, often a deity. This mentality alienates those who prioritize ideological principles over personal glorification.

Conversely, modern democracies are built on the foundation of principles, not individuals. Many suggest that loyalty should be to an idea or document, such as the Constitution, rather than a person. This shift from loyalty to a personality to a principle is crucial for maintaining a functional and democratic society.

The situation in France serves as a historical precedent. Led by ideals articulated in documents, they provided a solution to the pitfalls of divine right. Inspired by this, systems and tools can be implemented to prevent a return to such negative ideologies in contemporary society.

The Influence of Corporate Culture

Interestingly, corporate culture often mirrors the behavior seen in Trump's base. In many corporate environments, employees are compelled to bow to figures of authority, such as CEOs and vice presidents. This underscores a lack of respect for individual principles and an overemphasis on loyalty to individuals.

Trump's behavior in the corporate world can be seen as a reflection of this behavior, but in a more extreme form. He often expects his followers to worship him, much like employees are expected to 'bow' to their superiors. However, it is essential for individuals to recognize that they do not need to submit to anyone undeservedly. Personal principles should take precedence, and no person or entity should demand blind obedience.

Some have suggested that teachable moments, like discerning truth from falsehood in the media, are crucial. The lesson our fifth-grade teacher imparted—that we should believe half of what we read and one-quarter of what we hear—remains as relevant today as ever. Being discerning and critical consumers of information is key to navigating the complex landscape of modern politics.

Conclusion

Donald Trump's low approval rating is not just about a lack of support but a broader issue of how he perceives and rationalizes public opinion. His base supports him through trust in his narratives, while the wider audience sees through these rationalizations and often dismisses his arguments as delusions or distractions. The challenge lies in moving beyond personality politics to uphold democratic principles and critical thinking as the foundations of governance.