Will Donald Trump make an appearance at the initial Republican presidential debate? This question, however, is not the most crucial one as candidates prepare for the event in Milwaukee on August 23. The more pressing matter is whether any Republican contender can outdo Trump using his own tactics. Over the past eight years, Trump has effectively addressed what he refers to as “the forgotten men and women of America.” He has focused on the millions of individuals, mostly Republicans but also Democrats and independents, who have been left behind in the 21st century. From declining industrial towns to rural areas and working-class neighborhoods in major cities, Trump attracted supporters promising to be their advocate, something no one else had done before. However, Trump’s appeal lies in stoking resentment and seeking revenge. While he claims to uplift his most loyal followers, he devotes more attention to punishing those he perceives as responsible for their suffering, including the deep state, corporate executives, and the GOP establishment. This grievance-driven approach shares similarities with liberal identity politics, where the left seeks to hold oppressors accountable. Trump’s success was built on being the champion of middle Americans, according to Tillman. It defined his campaign in 2016 and 2020, and it continues to shape his strategy for 2024. Although Trump accurately highlights the growing exclusion of Americans and the disregard shown by decision-makers in the country, a message of resentment and retribution isn’t the only way to engage them, nor does it have to be the most effective. Imagine if a Republican candidate wholeheartedly addressed the majority of Americans who feel ignored by the government, not by promising to punish their enemies, but by presenting an empowering plan to ensure they have a share in America’s future. No Republican contender has genuinely attempted this approach. While some candidates, such as Tim Scott, Nikki Haley, and Mike Pence, express optimism, they fail to directly and consistently connect with forgotten Americans or provide a comprehensive strategy to uplift overlooked communities and individuals. Their messaging often lacks relevance to people’s lives and tends to focus on opposing entities like Joe Biden, Hunter Biden, socialism, or “the woke,” rather than presenting clear policy solutions to people’s problems. The Republican candidate who can articulate passion and detail, while maintaining positivity instead of negativity, stands the best chance of surpassing Trump. At the upcoming debate, candidates need to address Americans directly, acknowledging their frustrations with a government that doesn’t prioritize their concerns. They should demonstrate a commitment to fixing problems such as improving schools, ensuring fair wages, eliminating corporate welfare and corruption, and making the government work for the people instead of against them. Furthermore, candidates should provide specific plans, including innovative solutions for education, streamlining the federal bureaucracy to create jobs, and implementing policies that reduce healthcare costs while increasing accessibility. If Republicans fail to offer tangible plans, they will never demonstrate their ability to unlock the potential of every American. They will only tap into Americans’ frustrations, something that Trump excels at. Trump, nor the leading Democratic candidate, Joe Biden, will present this positive vision in detail. Both parties’ front-runners will resort to their messages of resentment, albeit from different perspectives. While such an approach is undoubtedly effective, as it appeals to deep-rooted human emotions, the American people have always been inspired by more than just grievance. Throughout history, they have been motivated by the promise of achievement and success, the pursuit of happiness. When the focus shifts to these “better angels,” America has lifted everyone in extraordinary ways. Republicans are eager for a candidate to reignite that spirit once again, and the sentiment extends to Americans across the political spectrum, particularly in black and Latino communities. If a GOP contender can tap into the widespread fear of being left behind and present a path to help individuals succeed, they can emerge victorious in both the primary and general elections. During the first debate, Republicans should address Trump’s supporters with the same fervor, but with a significantly different and uplifting vision. Trump will continue to win until someone manages to outplay him, demonstrating how every American can triumph. John Tillman is the CEO of the American Culture Project.
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