Opinion: It’s the Economy, Not Ideology, That Decides Elections

While Democrats were busy defending pronouns and discussing Palestine, Donald Trump was speaking directly to the working class about jobs and the economy. And it worked. The old political adage rings true again: “It’s the economy, stupid!”

Trump entered the race with seemingly insurmountable baggage: a record as a convicted felon, an election loser, and a polarizing figure even within his own party. Yet, he won. On the other hand, Kamala Harris had every advantage—wealthy donors, media backing, the unwavering support of the left, and endorsements from Hollywood, Silicon Valley, and cultural icons like Oprah and Cardi B. Still, she lost.

The issue wasn’t the Democrats as a whole but the influence of a vocal minority on the radical left. This faction, nurtured on university campuses, projects a postmodernist ideology that alienates middle America. Their loud, utopian rhetoric made it seem as though the Democratic Party had fully embraced their agenda, creating a significant disconnect with the concerns of middle America. Harris, caught in this wave, prioritized issues like abortion and gender identity, focusing on cultural battles championed by activists rather than addressing economic concerns.

For example, while slogans like “my body, my choice” resonate with young voters like Lily, they don’t necessarily appeal to Lily’s mom, who worries about decisions made in haste or under pressure. This cultural divide, often rooted in differing perspectives on individual rights and societal norms, reflects America’s diverse values. America remains a largely conservative nation in its heartland, valuing stability and tradition. But Harris didn’t lose because of these cultural divides alone.

The real blow came from the swing voters in the middle—those who prioritized economic realities over ideological debates. As the Democrats focused on progressive ideals, often using lofty rhetoric that seemed disconnected from the everyday struggles of the working class, Trump leaned into the basics: jobs, wages, and economic growth. The blue-collar voter, the backbone of swing states, tuned out the Democrats’ lofty rhetoric and leaned right, drawn to Trump’s focus on tangible issues like trade, tariffs, and border policies, even if his solutions were questionable or oversimplified.

Harris, meanwhile, offered little to counter Trump’s economic messaging. Her campaign felt unfocused, drowned out by cultural debates and criticism of Trump, which failed to energize voters struggling with rent, rising food prices, and stagnant wages. The Democratic Party’s failure to address these economic concerns and Joe Biden’s lackluster presence further exacerbated the situation. As Biden seemed to fade from the race, Harris appeared out of sync with the pressing problems of everyday Americans.

Despite his flaws and controversies, Trump relentlessly drove his narrative, refusing to let scandals or legal troubles overshadow his economic message. While his claims about the economy were only partially accurate, they resonated deeply with voters who felt ignored by the Democrats’ focus on cultural and ideological issues. By emphasizing jobs, trade, and border policies, Trump positioned himself as a champion of the working class, appealing to those frustrated by rising costs and economic uncertainty. While unlikely to resolve America’s pressing financial challenges, his victory grants him four more years to navigate his legal battles, reinforce his influence, and attempt to solidify a political legacy that will either be remembered for impactful reform or amplifying partisan divides.

In the end, this election wasn’t about ideology, culture wars, or even Trump’s character. It was about pocketbook issues—the rent, groceries, and jobs that shape everyday lives. And on those issues, Trump managed to speak louder, if not clearer, than the Democrats. This outcome underscores the importance of addressing economic issues in future political strategies, making it a necessity rather than an option.

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