Why Someone Might Resist Trump

A conservative member of a conversation salon recently questioned why there is so much negativity directed toward Trump and his supporters. It had not occurred to me that supporters of Trump and his policies might genuinely not understand why some people feel and express, perhaps inadequately or inappropriately at times, such strong disdain and resistance. I can try to explain the source of my feelings.

       First, Trump’s personality. The Apprentice revealed a cold, arbitrary, demanding, unreasonable task master. That type of person evidently does not bother a lot of people, particularly people with those same traits. I marveled at people’s willingness to subject themselves to that sort of treatment in order to become Trump’s apprentice. To me, that treatment is not acceptable and is not worth any amount of money. Which in some peoples’ estimation makes me a “loser”. For me Trump’s personality is not likable.

      Secondly, Trump’s value system is worse than his obnoxious personality. I perceive his value system to be materialistic, which admittedly does permeate American society. Materialism refers to money and power being the ultimate measure of whatever is worthwhile, good, and/or worthy. For materialists the goals of attaining more money and power are more important than the means by which they attain those things. Such people are unpredictable and potentially dangerous.

      Materialistic narcissistic bullies without much power might be merely irritating to the nation or to the world in general. When they possess the power of the President of the United States and the determination to implement national policies in accord with the values of materialism to whatever extent the law allows, it threatens the rights opportunities of minorities, public health, and environmental quality. Since I believe that we all have inalienable rights to live a healthful lifestyle and to access the common good and that these values are more significant, more valuable, and more genuinely American than millionaires and billionaires becoming richer, I am not disposed to feel kindly toward those who threaten those values for the sake of profit.

    That is why I will continue to resist.