Professor Kenworthy Discusses Durability of Trumpism and Influence of Tech Billionaires in U.S. Politics
Professor Lane Kenworthy, Distinguished Professor of Sociology at the University of California, San Diego, suggests that 'Trumpism' may not be a permanent fixture in U.S. politics and could disappear if a more appealing agenda emerges. In an interview, Kenworthy noted the Republican Party's susceptibility to ideological takeovers, citing shifts from 'compassionate conservatism' to the Tea Party and then to Trumpism. He also addressed the increasing political spending and influence of tech billionaires, such as Elon Musk and Peter Thiel, in shaping ideological and institutional directions. While acknowledging their growing power, Kenworthy remains cautious about labeling this a new era of plutocracy, suggesting it might be an aberration unique to President Trump's administration. He also highlighted that President Trump's major policy changes, such as immigration and tariffs, were driven more by President Trump himself and non-billionaire advisors rather than wealthy donors.
