February 25th 2024.
During a recent Black-tie event in South Carolina, former President Donald Trump shared his thoughts on how his legal troubles have surprisingly endeared him to the Black community. According to reports from the Associated Press, the event was held as a precursor to the South Carolina Republican primary on February 24th.
In his speech, Trump expressed his frustration with his indictment, claiming that he was falsely accused and that many in the Black community could relate to being wrongfully discriminated against. He also mentioned how his mugshot from Atlanta became popular among his supporters, with the Black population embracing it more than anyone else.
Trump also spoke about his past interactions with Black people, specifically those who worked as construction workers on his properties. He cited this as evidence of his understanding of the Black community. However, it's worth noting that Trump and his father were accused of housing discrimination in 1973 and were forced to settle with the Justice Department.
In 2016, during her presidential campaign, Hilary Clinton brought up Trump's past discrimination suit, reminding voters that he was sued by the Justice Department for not renting apartments to African-Americans. This, along with his promise to not discriminate and his subsequent failed attempt to countersue the DOJ, paints a concerning picture of Trump's views on race.
Even Nikki Haley, who stirred controversy with her statement that America has never been a racist country, found Trump's comments at the event "disgusting." She also pointed out that this is what happens when he goes off-script, referring to his tendency to make unfiltered and chaotic remarks.
Despite Trump's claims, Black voters have expressed their skepticism and disapproval of his rhetoric and agenda. One Columbia resident, Ebony McBath, stated that she would rather vote for Joe Biden because she believes Trump has his own agenda. Similarly, another resident, Issac Williams Sr., compared Trump to a mobster and expressed his belief that he is only out for himself.
On the other hand, Black conservatives are hoping to make Trump more appealing to the Black community. Samuel Rivers Jr., a former Republican state senator for South Carolina, believes that in order to win over more Black voters, the Republican Party needs to invest more time and money into promoting their platform. He also acknowledged that many Black people agree with their platform but do not associate it with the Republican Party due to negative perceptions.
However, as Howard University Political Science Professor Clarence Lusane points out, there is a reason why racists are drawn to the GOP. In an op-ed, Lusane explains how the Republican Party has embraced white nationalism and appealed to white resentment towards the civil rights movement. He also notes that the KKK, once linked to the Democratic Party, has now aligned themselves with the GOP.
In conclusion, while some Black conservatives may hope to make Trump more relatable to the Black community, his past actions and rhetoric show a concerning pattern of discrimination and appeals to white nationalism. As the 2020 election approaches, it will be important for voters to carefully consider the values and beliefs of each candidate before casting their vote.
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