For Donald Trump, loyalty and empathy are a one-way street; he demands all, but gives none. Why, then, do white Christians from rural areas identify so strongly with the thrice-married former casino owner from New York? Why, when he says he is their retribution (not just his), do they believe him?
I think there are two reasons. First, even though Trump was born with a silver spoon in his mouth, he genuinely resents the fact it wasn’t platinum. His fans appreciate and relate to that resentment. Second, while Trump may have some orthodox GOP views on substance, he never mutes himself, so it never appears that he is selling out to the establishment. That sets him apart from any of his competitors.