A Glimpse into Trump’s Supporters’ Sentiment
In the unique and often topsy-turvy world where former President Donald J. Trump and his most fervent supporters connect, the ongoing dynamics of the presidential race appear perfectly acceptable. Contrary to the prevailing narrative, they do not perceive the last three weeks of Mr. Trump’s campaign as disastrous. There’s a palpable sense of calm among his advocates.
“I’m not anxious at all,” expressed Tamara Whitney, a 59-year-old retired postal service worker from Helena, Montana. She was among the throngs of Montanans who gathered at Bobcat Stadium in Bozeman on a recent Friday evening to witness Mr. Trump speak. The air was filled with the sounds of Johnny Cash, while children donned oversized silver belt buckles, cowboy hats, and boots, and one individual sported a striking cow-patterned suit jacket. “Trump has got it,” Ms. Whitney stated with a sense of assurance.
In conversations with numerous supporters, an overarching theme of unwavering confidence emerged regarding the current political landscape. This optimistic outlook, bolstered by the candidate himself, seems to foster a growing sentiment among them that if the election does not unfold in their favor come November, the outcome will surely be attributed to another stolen election.
Their worries seemed negligible, even in light of recent developments. On the very same day, Vice President Kamala Harris and her running mate, Gov. Tim Walz of Minnesota, hosted a significant rally in Glendale, Arizona, drawing an impressive crowd of approximately 15,000 attendees, according to their campaign reports. Likewise, Mr. Trump’s previous advantages in polling and fundraising have diminished considerably. Furthermore, the media, internet, and entertainment sectors buzzed with discussions surrounding Ms. Harris’s endearing coconut memes and her portrayal as a figure of “joy” and “brat.”
Yet, these factors seemed to hold little sway over his supporters. “I’m sorry, I don’t believe what I see on TV and in the news, so I’m just not worried about it,” remarked Barb Delaney, a 68-year-old flight attendant from Bozeman, reflecting the sentiments of many.
“It’s kind of like when you start dating someone for the first time,” added Chris Black, a 35-year-old real estate professional from Red Lodge, Montana, who attended the event with his wife. “The initial weeks are always filled with excitement, but let’s see how it all unfolds in the next 90 days, right?”
