Understanding Donald Trump’s Connection to Dictators and Respect for Democratic Leaders

Donald Trump, a figure often associated with business acumen and controversial political stances, shares similarities in his approach to business and politics that can be traced back to his formative years. This article delves into why Trump seems to idolize dictators while holding little regard for democratic leaders, exploring the roots of his mindset through his business practices and early influences.

Business Background and Early Influences

During his formative years in the late 1970s and early 1980s, Trump was known for his thuggish and instinctive business practices. He was part of the New York nightlife scene, associating with mobsters and their children. This environment instilled in him a mindset of taking charge and exerting control, often at the expense of others. Key elements of Trump's business style include:

Aversion to Writing Down Plans: Trump learned the importance of not writing plans in detail. Instead, he gave vague directions, leaving room for improvisation and manipulation. Disregard for Authority: His upbringing involved a lack of hearing the “NO” word, leading him to push others until they resisted. Management Style: As he managed his Mom and Pop company, Trump delegated tasks vaguely, allowing for loose control and potential manipulation.

These early experiences shaped his approach to leadership and decision-making, an approach that extended into his political career.

Disregard for Democratic Leaders

When it comes to his relationships with political figures, Trump's disdain for democratic leaders is well-documented. His affinity towards autocratic leaders is often seen as a reflection of his own leadership style. He has long sworn that he had no “0 files” in his office, a euphemism suggesting no written records of meetings or discussions. This attitude can be traced back to his business practices, where he preferred verbal agreements over written ones, making it easier to manipulate situations.

Reflecting his desire for power, Trump has torn up documents in the White House and carried sensitive information with him, just as he would do in a business setting. His goal is not merely to govern but to exert an iron grip, much like his role models who make up rules as they go along, enrich themselves through exploitation, and establish dictatorial regimes.

Admiration for Dictators

When asked if he admires specific dictators, Trump has not openly expressed admiration. His statements regarding authoritarian leaders are often taken out of context to fit a political narrative, a common tactic in today's polarized political landscape. The belief in his admiration for dictators serves to fuel hate and division among the opposition, particularly when dealing with Republicans and Democrats who have rifted since 2008.

Populist figures, including Trump, emerge when the established elites fail to listen to the people's needs and concerns. Trump's charisma and appeal can be attributed to his ability to connect with the masses on a personal level, something often seen in historical populist figures across the political spectrum. However, the underlying issue is not Trump but the system that silences the voices of the masses and the tools used by the elites to maintain control.

Elites and Controlling the Narrative

The corrupt and distant elites, including brokers, bankers, real estate developers, and media figures, control the narrative to maintain their power. These elites often conflate Trump with broader political ideologies, which only serves to add fuel to the fire of political division. The new class, built on intelligence, now focuses on managing cultural production and public debate rather than merely accumulating wealth.

Trump is viewed as a threat to this new power structure rather than a threat to the common American citizen. His appeal to the masses is a sign of the failure of traditional institutions to represent the interests of the people. The solution lies in understanding and addressing the true concerns and values of the American people rather than attacking politicians personally.

Through understanding the roots of his business and political style, one can better comprehend why Trump idolizes dictators and disrespects democratic leaders. It is important to consider the context and the forces at play rather than engaging in divisive rhetoric.