Republicans are the ones playing identity politics
And they have for a long time. Since 1968, Republicans have strategically employed identity politics, yet they’ve managed to convince many voters, the mainstream media, and even some Democrats that it’s actually the Democrats engaging in this tactic. This approach began with the Southern Strategy, evolved through movements like the Moral Majority and Tea Party, and has culminated in MAGA. Over the past 50+ years, their core strategy has been to appeal to a predominantly white voter base, packaging messages of “whiteness” under themes like values, patriotism, and tradition.
Since 1968, white Americans have made up about 70% of the voting electorate, with roughly 70% of them voting Republican. This means nearly 50% of the electorate aligns with the GOP, providing a substantial foundation. This demographic advantage also grants Republicans disproportionate power within the political system. For example, states with smaller populations but with a significant white majority, like Idaho, the Dakotas, and Wyoming, have two senators each, enabling Republicans to maintain influence by catering to this white majority. Through gerrymandering and control of state legislatures, especially in purple states like Wisconsin and Michigan, they further entrench their power.
In the 1970s and 1980s, their rhetoric relied on subtle dog whistles. By the 1990s, it became more overt, and by the 2000s, especially following the election of a Black president, their messaging was increasingly blatant. Over time, Republicans have doubled down on this strategy, anchoring their power in racial identity politics while deflecting criticism by accusing Democrats of doing it. While Democrats may occasionally control the presidency or Congress, the GOP’s calculated appeal to whiteness ensures their base remains steadfast and their influence persists. That is how we end up with someone like Trump.
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