Why Trump Poll Numbers Soar Amid Legal Troubles
The puzzling phenomenon of Donald Trump's poll numbers increasing as he faces legal indictment or charges has sparked intense debate. This article explores the underlying psychological and narrative factors that contribute to this counterintuitive trend.
The American System as a Narrative for His Supporters
Many of his supporters believe that the American system is fundamentally unfair and has treated them badly. For them, Trump appears not just as a champion but as a symbol of their struggle. There are three main narratives that resonate with his base:
1. Systemic Unfairness
Supporters often point to instances where they feel the system has wronged them, leading to a broader distrust in the political and judicial systems. In this context, Trump's legal troubles are seen as further evidence of a rigged system that targets those in the public eye.
2. Trump as “One of Them”
One narrative is that Trump truly understands the struggles of the working class because he too has faced hardships in his early years. His supporters believe that he shares their lived experiences, making him a relatable figure. This perception, however, overlooks his wealthy background.
3. Perceived Special Treatment
Further fueling their belief is the perception that the system has specially treated Trump, benefiting him in various ways. For instance, his legal troubles have often been delayed or resolved out of court, which is seen as unfair advantage over regular citizens.
A Closer Look at Trump's Legal Troubles
Let's delve deeper into how Trump's legal troubles have been handled, which often appear to confirm the supporters' narratives:
Court Cases and Legal Delays
Trump's legal issues have frequently stalled, especially when he is in office. For example, the case regarding classified documents was allowed to drag on for over half a year. If Trump had returned the documents voluntarily within this period, there wouldn't have been any charges against him. This specific instance has once again widened the gap between the general public and Trump's wealthy, insulated world.
Suici Gration for Legal Costs
Another frustrating aspect is how Trump manages his legal costs. Despite having millions of dollars worth of legal bills, he often turns to his working-class supporters to cover them. In 2020, supporters donated a total of 150 million dollars to cover his legal bills, of which only 10 million was used. The remaining 140 million was retained by him, which comes across as seeing his followers as naive and gullible.
Perceived Corruption
Despite portraying himself as a champion against corruption, Trump himself has been accused of it. His son-in-law, for example, received two billion dollars for favors to Saudi Arabia. This discrepancy raises questions about Trump's genuine intentions and the accusations of seeking personal gain through corrupt practices.
The Complexity of Support
While many supporters believe these narratives, it is important to critically examine their validity. The system has certainly treated some individuals unfairly, but the notion that Trump is one of them is largely misinformed. His background and legal track record showcase a different reality—a wealthy individual who has managed to navigate the system favorably.
His supporters prefer to take him at his word, especially given the disillusionment with other politicians. However, the reality is more nuanced. Trump's success in navigating the legal system is representative of systemic advantages he and his supporters may not fully appreciate.
Conclusion
The increasing poll numbers during legal troubles highlight the complexity of political support in the modern era. Understanding these narratives and their impact is crucial for both analysts and policymakers. As legal cases continue to unfold, the narrative surrounding Trump will undoubtedly evolve, shaping the political landscape for years to come.