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DON'T TREAD ON ME! KICK ME! [1]
['This Content Is Not Subject To Review Daily Kos Staff Prior To Publication.']
Date: 2025-02-21
Those right-wing protesters who proudly waved the Gadsden flag (Don't Tread On Me) think of themselves as proud patriots, like the early American revolutionaries. But in fact, they are more like the high school victims who have a sign stuck on their backs that says, "Kick Me!" and those of the oligarchy are glad to do it.
The average Trumper has been convinced that the "elite" that disrespects them are university professors, scientists, and Hollywood figures. Rightwing politicians and commentators continually deride these cultural leaders and blame them for the marginization and economic difficulties of the white middle class and blue collar workers.
The "elite" is certainly blameworthy. But not primarily the elite in education, entertainment, and science. The elite who have been most responsible for the hardships of Trumpers and most less affluent Americans are the oligarchy, the wealthiest movers and shakers.
Those of the oligarchy seek to convince ordinary people that they are on their side, that they are sympathetic with their plight, that they identify with their struggles. In fact, they don't. American oligarchs have far more in common with oligarchs in other countries than they have with America's living on farms, in small towns, or in rust belt cities. From nation to nation, the oligarchy share interests and aspirations that have nothing to do with the hopes and dreams of those who are unsure of how they will pay this month's bills.
But some oligarchs are fake populist, pretending they are not the elites who hinder rather than help those who are barely making ends meet. Chief among these is President Donald Trump. While appealing to the frustrations and resentments of ordinary Americans and directing their anger to those on the left, he packs his cabinet with more billionaires than anyone in the White House before him.
The richest of the rich are not the brightest and the best, regardless what Trump claims. And they certainly will not be working to make life better for the bulk of people who elected Trump, to say nothing of others. The economic elite will do what they have always done: reinforce the power and privilege of those who are already powerful and privileged while leaving everyone else behind.
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