46. The Enduring Grip of Trumpism on America - Robert Gutsche

After Trump: Understanding the Continuing Influence of Trumpism 

We explore the enduring influence of Donald Trump on American politics and media. Despite the controversies and outrage that defined his presidency, Trumpism continues to dominate voter sentiment, political discourse, and media narratives, often amplifying divisions and fueling heated debates about political bias, emotional connections, and the state of democracy.

Our special guest, Robert Gutsche, a cultural studies scholar, journalist, and author, sheds light on how media coverage and social media engagement algorithms shape public perceptions, heighten political tensions, and contribute to distorted narratives. Together, we examine how Trump's lasting influence is felt in everything from national news to grassroots movements, where angry differences among voters often escalate into intense political fights.

This episode also explores the decline of local journalism and its ripple effects, including how it has left gaps in understanding the concerns of everyday people and allowed extreme political narratives to thrive. Gutsche challenges us to consider how media hype and social media dynamics impact mental health and drive political violence, while emphasizing the need to move beyond passive awareness and into meaningful action to address these pressing social issues.

Join us as we dissect the persistence of Trumpism, the emotional drivers behind voter loyalty, and the ways media coverage can distort reality. This is an essential listen for anyone grappling with the complexities of modern politics and the power of the outrage industry.