Many of President Donald Trump’s critics have lambasted him as being a nationalist. There’s just one problem: Trump is proud to be one. And many of his supporters support him precisely because he is a nationalist. Speaking at a rally for Senator Ted Cruz, Trump noted: “You know, they have a word, it sort of became old-fashioned. It’s called a nationalist. And I say, ‘Really? We’re not supposed to use that word.’ You know what I am? I’m a nationalist. OK? I’m a nationalist.”
It’s hard to fault the president for being a nationalist if he is openly and publicly embracing it. This is especially true when it’s what his supporters want. At the Houston rally, the audience roared with delight when President Trump embraced his nationalism.
Many of President Trump’s policies could indeed be described as nationalist. His moves to restrict trade and lash out at trade partners that he alleges are engaging in unfair practices certainly fits the bill. The president has arguably been tougher on China regarding trade than any other president in recent memory.
For America, the battle between Trump’s nationalism and the open-trade neoliberalism of previous Republican and Democrat administrations illustrates the sharp divide in society. Trump’s power base is firmly cemented in rural and post-industrial areas of America, many of which have suffered from the effects of globalization. Meanwhile, much of his opposition is centered in large metropolitan areas, which have largely benefited from the globalized economy.
So while critics may try to lambaste him for nationalism, what does it matter if his supporters embrace it? Only time will tell if President Trump’s nationalist policies are beneficial or detrimental to American prosperity. Regardless, the president could argue that he’s upholding the will of his supporters.
In the 2016 election, America’s hinterlands exerted their influence by electing President Trump. With the midterms fast approaching, America will learn whether Trump or the opposition will hold sway this time around.
