Trump's win signified a long-term reaction to economic, technological, and cultural changes that have been reshaping societies globally. This realignment is driven by a desire to reassess and potentially reverse the impacts of globalization, the information revolution, and cultural shifts.
Zakaria notes that Hispanic working-class voters are increasingly aligning with working-class interests rather than ethnic identity, reflecting a broader socio-economic realignment where class issues are trumping ethnic considerations.
The Democratic Party's challenge is to supplement its base of college-educated voters with a broader coalition, as the current socio-economic and cultural divides are causing significant alienation among working-class voters who traditionally supported the party.
Immigration is seen as a tangible manifestation of the broader societal changes that are causing anxiety. Unlike abstract issues like trade or the information revolution, immigration visibly changes the cultural and social fabric of communities, making it a focal point for voter concerns.
Zakaria worries that Trump's transactional and often unpredictable approach to foreign policy could lead to the unraveling of the post-World War II international order, which has been largely maintained by the United States. This could result in a return to a more unstable and competitive global landscape.
Zakaria advises against abandoning the country in response to political outcomes, emphasizing the importance of civic engagement and staying involved to fight for the values one believes in. He highlights the checks and balances within the U.S. system and the need to maintain a commitment to democracy.
After a dramatic election, Donald Trump has returned from exile. We hear what to expect at home and abroad — and what to do if you didn’t vote for Trump.
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