Will There Be Anybody Voting for Trump Despite Not Voting for Him in 2016?

The 2020 U.S. presidential elections were a testament to the complexities of American politics. Many who had initially voted for Donald Trump in 2016 did not support him in the 2020 race. This article explores the reasons behind this shift and the challenges faced by those who turned against Trump.

Encouraging Voter Turnout Among Non-2016 Trump Supporters

The nation's voter base, boasting over 150 million registered voters, is diverse, and as such, it is not surprising that some who initially backed Trump in 2016 did not return to the polls in 2020. This phenomenon raises several questions, including why these individuals might turn to the opposition and what the broader implications of their voting behavior could be.

What Happened in 2016?

In 2016, many voters who were skeptical of traditional political candidates saw a different narrative. Trump was portrayed as a successful businessman with a contrarian approach to politics. Many were disillusioned with the status quo and sought a new direction. However, this narrative began to disintegrate in Trump's first week in office, as various claims were exposed as outright falsehoods.

Myth of the Popular Vote

One of the early blunders was the notion that Trump won the popular vote over Hillary Clinton. Despite undisputed evidence to the contrary, Trump maintained his claim, leading some to question his credibility.

Demagoguery and Fabrication

An even more significant issue was the false narrative surrounding the size of his inauguration crowd. Despite reputable estimates indicating that it was smaller than Obama's, Trump continued to proclaim the opposite, a clear example of his tendency to prioritize ego over truth.

A New Chapter in 2020

The 2020 elections were a stark contrast to 2016, particularly for those who had initially supported Trump. The 2020 election saw a significant shift, with many of these individuals now turning against Trump. This was partly due to Trump's continued alignment with the far-right religious agenda, which does not align with the views of increasingly liberal voters.

The Walkaway Campaign

One platform where many of these individuals share their stories is the Walkaway Campaign on Facebook. Members of this group, like the author, describe a gradual realization that Trump was not the candidate they thought he was. These individuals often face rejection and criticism from their liberal peers and family members, highlighting the polarizing nature of the political climate.

Political Evolution and Ideological Shift

Some who left the Democratic base in 2020 cite the party's hard-left turn as a significant factor. For example, Kamala Harris, a senator often criticized for her hard-left stance, is now one of the only four senators consistently ranked to the left of Bernie Sanders. The party's refusal to address the destructive nature of urban violence further alienates some from the Democratic camp.

A Sudden Realization

For many, the turning point came with a gradual realization coupled with an "aha" moment. These moments often led to a profound shift in political allegiance, as seen in the author's personal journey. However, the subsequent isolation from liberal friends and family can be challenging.

Conclusion

In the ever-evolving political landscape, it is clear that the reasons for changing political allegiances are complex and multifaceted. While some individuals choose to stay true to their initial support of Trump, others, like the author, have chosen to align with the opposition due to evolving political views and the changing dynamics of the Democratic Party.