Opinion | Shamelessness Is Trump’s Superpower

In an email, Dallek wrote that “Trump is the most brazenly corrupt national politician in modern times, and his openness about it is sui generis. Trump 2.0 is emboldened on many fronts, feeling liberated to wear his corruption on his sleeve.”

There is a logic to Trump’s behavior. Despite facing numerous hurdles, including the Russia probe, two impeachments, two assassination attempts, and criminal indictments, he now feels empowered and unafraid to use his public position to enrich his family.

Dallek argued that Trump’s self-dealing has become integral to his assault on American laws and traditions:

Trump’s actions, such as imposing tariffs on allies and promoting his crypto ventures, push past limits and normalize corruption within the Trump White House.

According to Dallek, Trump’s profiteering serves as a tool to mobilize supporters who view his corruption as a sign of strength and defiance against a rigged system.

His base sees his corrupt schemes as a show of strength and defiance against a system rigged against them. Trump’s shamelessness has become part of his brand, resonating with a portion of the American electorate.

Political scientist Sarah Kreps from Cornell highlighted that corruption goes beyond backroom deals, emphasizing the perception of a rigged system that benefits a select few. Trump’s ability to tap into this narrative has resonated with his base, positioning him as a champion of the overlooked.

Democrats’ efforts to address inequalities through targeted policies can inadvertently reinforce perceptions of favoritism, fueling populist narratives that portray the political establishment as stacked against the average citizen.

Kreps noted that Trump’s shamelessness and lack of contrition contribute to his appeal, fostering loyalty among his base by presenting an unfiltered and relatable persona.

Trump’s norm-breaking behavior and defiance of traditional political image curation have resonated with his base, setting him apart from his predecessors and reinforcing his political brand.

Political scientist Douglas Kriner expanded on Kreps’s point, highlighting Trump’s willingness to embrace conflicts of interest and norm-breaking behavior as strengths rather than liabilities.

Trump’s base revels in his norm-breaking behavior and showmanship, even when it may unsettle the median voter. His unapologetic approach has resonated with his supporters, solidifying his political position.

Trump’s ability to profit from his position and engage in transparent self-dealing without guilt or shame has raised questions about the effectiveness of Democratic policies and the perception of corruption in political discourse.

The perception of corruption has been broadened by Trump, who challenges public institutions’ integrity and portrays criticism as attacks on his supporters rather than on his own actions.

Scholars have discussed the effectiveness of Trump’s narrative painting Democrats as a party of special interests, tapping into deep-rooted partisan animosity and portraying opponents as existential threats.

The negative views partisans hold of each other have led to the demonization of opposing parties, with Republicans viewing Democratic positions as corruptions of American values.

Trump’s confidence in his actions and the lack of legal repercussions have been reinforced by his re-election despite facing legal challenges and accusations of impropriety.

The ongoing debate surrounding corruption, trust, and political discourse underscores the challenges faced by both parties in navigating the complex dynamics of modern American politics.