So what, exactly, is swagger? Here are the key elements:
- IT’S A GUY THING: It’s very difficult for women to swagger. They just don’t project physical strength and potential violence.
- SIZE MATTERS: A very strong physical presence is part of the package. Look at Trump during the debates, for example; he’s always trying to loom over his opponent in order to look dominant.
- BEING ATHLETIC HELPS, TOO: You can’t really swagger if you come across as bookish or nerdy. A love of vigorous outdoor activity goes over well with the electorate; it makes you look both strong and relatable.
- THE WILL PREVAILS OVER THE INTELLECT: Swagger is about God and guts, not brains.
- AN AURA OF CELEBRITY AND SUCCESS IS IMPORTANT: Why should people want to follow you if you’re not a winner?
- PROJECTING CONFIDENCE IS ESSENTIAL: Always look strong, and always be on the attack, regardless of the circumstances.
The bottom line here is that a candidate who swaggers gives the impression that he knows what he’s doing, and that sticking with him keeps you safe against your enemies, both foreign and domestic. Creating that sense of security is extremely important with GOP voters who largely believe that the world is an overwhelmingly hostile place, and that only the strong survive in such an environment. That’s why so many of them drive trucks and SUVs.