“A big problem with modern GOP politics is that it just doesn’t revolve around policy or solving problems. On the Democratic side, AOC is further left, sure, but she’s laser-focused on policy solutions. The pro-Trump right isn’t. It’s victimhood, grievance, culture wars. Instead, Republican politics is about entertainment. Politicians are characters. Will they dunk on someone on Twitter? Will they be hilarious at a frenzied rally? Will they deliver a blistering line on Fox News? Trump has made voters lose sight of what politics is for.”
“When Republicans engage with policy, it’s not about fixing problems. Defund the WHO. Okay, who, precisely will that help who urgently needs it right now? Attack Fauci over masks. Again, who, precisely does that help right now? Meanwhile, Americans really need help right now. When politics is entertainment, loyalty to a character becomes paramount. Republicans currently identify as Trump supporters more than as Republicans. But democracy requires people to be passionate about ideas, not people; solutions, not characters” – Brain Klaas.