Definition of the word syndrome: A collection of symptoms known to frequently appear together, suggesting the presence of a disease or an increased chance of developing one. By now, all of us have heard about Trump Derangement Syndrome; but I wanted to find out “the truth”. Therefore, I reviewed the literature, so you don’t have to. I’ve determined a conclusion; yours may be different. I’m presenting my position below.
If you know anyone who is repelled by 45/47, it’s likely you’ve observed this individual expressing a primal disgust with all things Trump. As a result of this state, knee/mind jerk reactions prohibit any balanced consideration of a specific statement, decision, or behavior that appears on the news or emanate from any external source.
From the moment Donald Trump entered the political stage we’ve observed meanness, derision, and resentment towards him, as well as the role he told us he was playing. He was the guy who would lead and encourage his countrymen, to “Make America Great Again”. As much as it appealed to early adopters of his message, it seems to irk the resisters even more. It’s quite difficult to comprehend why such a large clique of citizens would decry a vision that so clearly specifies a goal, sets a standard, and creates a blend of feelings that denote patriotism, ownership, achievability, and success. Yet, that’s today’s reality.
Since Trump isn’t failing, one would think that his measurable, concrete, and political results would cause a degree of cognitive dissonance among his detractors. However, this normal reaction only occurs when the individual is conscious and objective enough to recognize the existence of facts and data challenging their deeply held opinion. In the case of clusters of liberals, they don’t. Therefore, subjectivity is increased, reality is ignored, and the iron fence of intellectual protectionism is hardened and heightened to resist further onslaughts on the “resister”. It appears Trump hating has become a type of art form to those who are certain of their perceptions and opinions. “Pussy Hats”, pet slogans, and predictable protests enable detractors to make a scene, but it’s unlikely any of these actions are influential to independent voters.
The apex of the self-destructive malady inflicting the Democrats occurred during Trump’s televised speech to Congress in March of this year. Presidents since Reagan, have opted to recognize special citizens by inviting them to sit in the mezzanine section and acknowledging them in the speech. This year’s trio included a boy fighting brain cancer, a mother whose daughter was slain by illegal immigrants, and a proud freshman recently accepted to West Point whose family tree includes multiple ancestors with a military pedigree. Every one of the infected Democrat Senators and Representatives pre-determined to sit on their hands to protect themselves from any words of wisdom or feelings of empathy, if they’re communicated by Trump. They looked foolish, since over 70% if the public surveyed by CNN viewed the speech as positive. Recent polls from a variety of organizations reveal democrats are viewed at an historically low rating of less than 30% positive.
Daniel Moynihan, (you’ll benefit by reading his quotes, regardless of your level of familiarity with this wise and charming man), a Democrat who was a subject matter expert on American poverty, appointed as representative to the United Nations, elected Senator from New York, and certified smart guy once opined, “The liberal left can be as rigid and destructive as any force in American life.” He said those words near the end of the 20th century and it’s just as meaningful today.
Every recovering addict soon comes to learn things won’t get better unless he owns up to his problem and accepts responsibility for his behavior. To date, it’s clear the Democrat party leaders, their supporting scribes in the media, and cadres of liberal loyalists, haven’t. I don’t think Trump or Republicans are bothered by this reality, and the voting public is opting to reject the role of enabler.
Stew Bolno is a chronological peer of Donald Trump. He’s been a student, college professor, and consultant on leadership during his 50-year career. He’s followed politics longer than that time. His recent book is “Leadership Lessons And You: From A to Z – featuring Donald Trump”