The Gulf of America

The Base Trumpeters appear to think their conductor can do no wrong, at least not as to policy and political action. Oh, they may acknowledge that his “personality” is lacking, but they brush that off as meaningless compared to his excellent policies – as if being a dishonest, corrupt, immoral jerk was merely an inconsequential (maybe even helpful) personality style.

Channeling their leader – who boasts “I have certain hatreds of people” – many of these Trump lovers in turn despise “the Left,” “Libs,” and ordinary Democrats as “America haters.”

It is no better on the other side of the aisle. Those who loathe Trump often cannot resist loathing his voters nearly as much, referring to them as “racists,” “misogynists,” and “fascists.”

This divide is proved by data, as well as evidence we all see everywhere. Republican views of Donald Trump are nearly unanimous in their approval of his various statements and actions from the Oval Office, according to national polls. Non-Republicans disapprove by nearly the same margins whenever Mr. Trump does anything or doesn’t do something. They seem to detest Every. Single. Thing. that President Trump even considers, and all who support any of his ideas.

The destructive nature of this swirling storm is most sadly evident in its effect on our personal relationships. Families and friendships are torn apart over the question of whether Mr. Trump and his policies are great or grotesque. I need not elaborate, as you have seen this on Facebook and on faces at family gatherings.

Of equal importance is the insidious distrust the Trump Effect has had on institutions. Schools, legislatures, international alliances, even churches have been torn asunder.