A number of conservatives would disapprove of Stephen Miller's assertions, even if they do believe that white people are generally at least a bit better, or have rationalizations to protect their privilege.

In serving a Black congregation I came to appreciate the extent of racism in white liberals, even those who earnestly participate in anti-racism training. Racism is layered throughout American culture--I describe it as a demon that has a life of its own. But even in MAGA there are levels of racism.

But it is indeed a VERY LONG HAUL. Getting Trump down to a 17% approval rating is just a little step along the way in facing the demon of racism and other manifestations of human arrogance.

I recently published a book, which is about facing these challenges--racism, especially.
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Again, there are many layers to racism as well. Right now Trump/Miller are overtly saying "Racism is good! It's the best! and don't call me racist, you're the racist." Another part of the fashion of fascism. It IS a very long haul, but moving a bit on that is our current challenge.

equality and fair play. The fashion of being rich and scoffing at those who aren't (which affects MAGATs who aren't rich but wish they were) needs to give way to a better fashion. A shift in that is what will make a radical change. It can happen.

17% would be a huge outlier. Only arriving after some Republican leaders got credibility and got people believing that Trump was no true Republican and the villain of the story. But rather than persuade individuals, I'd rather work toward asserting American values of compassion, welcome, equality+

There are layers of commitment to the bit. Most MAGATs are followers, and when some of their social circle change, they may follow them, esp when the ugliness becomes uncomfortable for them. These tides can shift pretty suddenly.

There are a lot of things that are variable and highly contingent. The enchantment with Trump could disenchant quickly-esp if it's apparent that it's Stephen Miller doing the talking. OTOH it could get worse. We choose the values our society lives by.

I believe there's a scenario where Trump goes as low as 17%. But that involves the popularity of Nuremberg trials for his administration exceeding 65%.

Through David Hurd, I've met the adult children of a number of straight organists.

I have a friend who had a similar experience a few years ago. After consulting the cardiologist, there were no heart symptoms. It was likely a variety of panic attack. He’d never had therapy-I helped him get a good referral and it’s made a huge difference for him.

It is. It’s precisely the dynamic of 1930s Germany. Yet it’s built in social contexts. Some go along but are less convinced than others. Long-term, they will deny they were ever Trumpists. IOW I’m not convinced that the faction that’s permanently opposed to democracy is as big as it seems.

Of course his only talent is sensing things that people might be anxious about and amplifying those fears and giving quick self-serving solutions. This group says, “But he has good policies.”
At a certain point, some part of this group will tire of it. Later denying that they’d ever supported him.

I think that there’s a substantial group who would stop their peers from using that slur who are fine with Trump using it. They regard him as a combination standup comedian and hero protecting them from the things they fear. +

I have met many many organists. A few of them straight. And Kara is right.

Calvin and the -ists, as it were.

Iykyk