Trump, Vance, and the New Right at the RNC
Introduction:
On Thursday evening, Donald Trump officially accepted the Republican Party’s nomination for president of the United States. The crowd erupted in chants of “Trump, Trump, Trump!” as he took the stage. In this week’s episode of Deconstructed, Ryan Grim speaks with Emily Jashinsky, his co-host on “Counter Points,” about the Republican National Convention (RNC) and the influence of the New Right within the party.
The Rise of the New Right:
Jashinsky, reporting from the RNC in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, highlights the significance of Trump’s vice presidential pick, J.D. Vance. Vance, known for his book “Hillbilly Elegy,” has become a prominent figure in the New Right movement. This movement represents a shift within the Republican Party towards a more populist and nationalist ideology.
The New Right’s Vision:
Jashinsky and Grim delve into the New Right’s vision for the country, discussing key policy areas such as tariffs, immigration, LGBTQ+ rights, foreign policy, and education policy. They note that the New Right advocates for a more protectionist trade policy, aiming to prioritize American workers and industries. This aligns with Trump’s “America First” agenda.
Tariffs and Immigration:
The New Right’s focus on tariffs is seen as a departure from traditional Republican free trade policies. Jashinsky explains that they believe tariffs can protect American jobs and industries from unfair competition. However, critics argue that tariffs can lead to higher prices for consumers and potential trade wars.
Regarding immigration, Jashinsky notes that the New Right takes a hardline stance, advocating for stricter border controls and reduced immigration levels. They argue that this approach is necessary to protect American jobs and national security. However, opponents argue that it goes against America’s history as a nation built by immigrants.
LGBTQ+ Rights and Foreign Policy:
The discussion then turns to LGBTQ+ rights, with Jashinsky explaining that the New Right has been critical of the progressive push for expanded rights and protections. They argue for a more traditional understanding of marriage and gender roles. However, critics argue that this stance can perpetuate discrimination and harm LGBTQ+ individuals.
On foreign policy, Jashinsky highlights the New Right’s skepticism towards international alliances and interventions. They advocate for a more restrained approach, focusing on protecting American interests rather than engaging in global conflicts. Critics argue that this isolationist stance can weaken America’s standing in the world.
Education Policy:
Lastly, Jashinsky and Grim touch on education policy. The New Right emphasizes school choice and reducing the influence of teachers’ unions. They argue that empowering parents and increasing competition can lead to better educational outcomes. However, opponents argue that this approach can exacerbate inequalities and undermine public education.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, the RNC showcased the influence of the New Right within the Republican Party. Led by figures like J.D. Vance, this movement represents a shift towards a more populist and nationalist ideology. Their vision encompasses policies such as tariffs, stricter immigration controls, traditional views on LGBTQ+ rights, a restrained foreign policy, and education reform. While some applaud these ideas as necessary for protecting American interests, others raise concerns about potential consequences and the impact on marginalized communities.