Lessons for Trump Campaign from DeSantis’ ‘Fusionist’ Strategy
Why Donald Trump’s Campaign Needs to Change and Improve
The Impact of Donald Trump
As an early supporter of candidate Trump back in 2016, it was impossible not to appreciate what he was bringing to the public arena — not just in the United States, but in Europe as well. He had an impact that went beyond American shores and inspired a new wave of conservatism, emboldening the so-called forgotten men and women. At certain moments in history, God, fate, or chance cause certain people to take an essential role in shaping the times in which they live. They clearly divide history into two different eras and leave an indelible mark for decades to come. One may not like Donald Trump, or his style, but he made people feel seen and heard, restoring a lost relevance to their vote.
The Rise of Conservative Principles
As a result of a perceived collusion between governments, financial interests, and Big Tech, many nations across the West are rising up, voting for the same ideas and principles that the center-right and conservative parties have always defended such as individual freedoms, accountability, free markets, free and fair trade, tradition, culture, border protection, and rule of law. They are, however, choosing individuals who are shouting these common sense notions louder than the old polished and well-articulated politicians.
The Defense Mechanism of Republican Voters
Voting for candidate Trump in 2016 was the defense mechanism of many who were seeing their rights and freedoms eroded and under attack, while the so-called politically correct establishment was ignoring their every plea. I believe this is why Republican voters still stood by the former president.
The Potential of Governor Ron DeSantis
In my opinion, Governor Ron DeSantis was the most conservative candidate in the race. He has a great record as the Governor of Florida and would have made an incredible president. More importantly, I strongly believed two things about him: First, he could win against any Left-wing candidate in November, something I, as a foreign observer of this election cycle, was skeptical the former president could achieve. Secondly, in my view, DeSantis presented an improved Reaganite fusionism that I think is the way forward for conservatism.
Success in Florida and Cultural Fight
Undeniably, supply-side economic principles have once again turned out to be a recipe for success in Florida, just as they had been during the Reagan administration. Tax cuts, deregulation, balanced budgets, incentives to invest, hire, and produce have resulted in freedom, prosperity, and expanded opportunities. On the cultural side, DeSantis has not shied away from fighting against a new reincarnation of the old foe of civilization – communism. Wokeism and cancel culture are two notions that do not manifest in society as a need of the many, but rather an imposition of the few for political and financial gains. His fight to hold accountable those who committed immense injustices during the COVID pandemic is to be commended.
The Need for Change in Trump’s Campaign
These policies, some of which candidate Trump had also put forward during his 2016 campaign and had actually enacted in his four-year term, I found lacking in the third bid for the Republican nomination of the 45th president. Now that his main rival has withdrawn from the race, the Trump campaign message needs to change and improve in order to win, reflecting the improved fusionism DeSantis showed could work.
Key Changes for Trump’s Campaign
First, any Republican campaign – and as the frontrunner, Trump’s more than anyone’s – should avoid the mistakes of the 2020 campaign, such as giving a free pass to the Left to use all legal mechanisms at their disposal, while the GOP did not. If ballot harvesting and mail-in ballots are legal, there is no reason why the Republicans should not make use of them, just as the Democrats do. Secondly, President Trump needs to appeal to all conservatives, moderates, and independents. No one can win an election just by ensuring the base turns out on election day. He needs to unify the Republican Party and address the concerns of suburban areas, women, and the youth. Moreover, not everybody who disagrees with the former president is an enemy, a RINO, or a sellout. This rhetoric does more harm than good and alienates potential supporters. Trump needs to present a unifying conservative platform that inspires and resonates with the majority of people.
A Robust Foreign Policy
His platform should also include a robust foreign policy. America can revert to an updated version of the fusionist principles and policies that proved successful in winning the Cold War and encourage Europe to do the same. Embracing a principled realism centered on peace through strength is key. To do that, he needs to reform the whole State Department and undo the dangerous influence of radical Left-wing lobbying. America should lead and encourage a coalition of countries each upholding their individual dignity, values, and interests while collaborating on shared objectives.
A Second Chance for Success
Not often does one get a second chance at running for president. Donald Trump is getting his third. He can make it a successful, spectacular campaign and an even better term than the previous one. He has the chance to show everyone how successful conservative policies can be, how safe the world is when conservatives run it, and inspire a wave of conservative wins throughout the world. If he chooses this path, conservatives and moderates alike will be behind him.
Nikola Kedhi is an economic expert and financial consultant, a coauthor of the Constitution of the Center-Right Values and a contributor to several media outlets in the US, UK, and Europe. Kedhi’s articles reflect solely his own opinions.
The views expressed in this piece are those of the author and do not necessarily represent those of The Daily Wire.
What strategies should the Trump campaign employ to reach out to minority communities and address their concerns?
Voters who may have been turned off by his divisive rhetoric. Thirdly, Trump should focus on messaging that highlights his accomplishments and policies that have benefited the American people, such as tax cuts, deregulation, and criminal justice reform. By showcasing his achievements and outlining his plans for the future, he can appeal to voters who may be on the fence or undecided.
In addition, Trump’s campaign should prioritize reaching out to minority communities and addressing their concerns. By actively engaging with these communities and presenting solutions to their specific issues, Trump can help dispel the notion that his administration is indifferent or hostile towards minority groups. By emphasizing economic prosperity, job creation, and educational opportunities, Trump can make a compelling case for why his policies are beneficial for all Americans, regardless of their background.
Furthermore, it is crucial for the Trump campaign to adopt a more strategic and nuanced approach when it comes to foreign policy. While Trump’s America First agenda resonated with many voters in 2016, the international landscape has shifted since then. With rising global challenges such as China’s growing influence and the ongoing pandemic, Trump needs to demonstrate his ability to navigate these complex issues and protect American interests while maintaining alliances and partnerships with key allies.
Finally, Trump’s campaign needs to prioritize transparency and accountability. By being open and honest with the American people, addressing concerns and criticisms head-on, and demonstrating a willingness to learn from past mistakes, Trump can rebuild trust and confidence among voters. This includes actively addressing allegations of voter fraud and ensuring a fair and transparent election process.
In conclusion, the Trump campaign must change and improve in order to secure victory in the upcoming election. By learning from past mistakes, appealing to a wider range of voters, prioritizing key policy issues, and demonstrating transparency and accountability, Trump can present a compelling case for why he is the best candidate to lead the country. Implementing these key changes will not only strengthen the Trump campaign, but also serve the best interests of the American people.
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