On February 24, Trump delivered his State of the Union address, which many anti-Trump commentators labeled a “failure,” claiming it wouldn’t boost his declining poll numbers ahead of the midterm elections and lacked substantial policy proposals for the country’s pressing issues. These critics overlook a fundamental divide within the ruling class regarding solutions to crisis, clinging to outdated notions of democratic governance that Trump disregards.
Bob Avakian, in Revolution #118, explores the rise of fascism in relation to the limitations of capitalism-imperialism. He discusses how changes over the past 80 years, including advancements for marginalized communities, have prompted a backlash from those feeling threatened, driving them to support Trump’s fascism. This movement seeks a return to a status quo where certain groups are treated as inferior.
Trump’s approach reflects an aim to consolidate power and undermine democratic norms, appealing to a significant faction of the ruling capitalist class and energizing a hard-core base. Three key elements emerge from his speech: the promotion of Christian fascism, American exceptionalism, and a distorted view of U.S. history. He presented the U.S. as an unparalleled force in human progress while erasing historical injustices like genocide and slavery, thus reinforcing a regressive, undemocratic agenda.
