By John Q. Hosedrinker It’s not that MAGA doesn’t believe E. Jean Carroll, they just don’t care that Trump abuses women. This statement perfectly encapsulates the mindset of many within the MAGA base. It’s not a matter of disbelief or lack of evidence; rather, it’s a conscious decision to support a leader who has a well-documented history of mistreating and disrespecting women.
Under Trump’s leadership, American conservatism has become even more repugnant in its treatment of women. The abuse that Trump has directed towards Carroll is celebrated by MAGA, as they view it as putting her in her place. Trump’s undeniable misogyny finds resonance within the MAGA base because it aligns with their own sexist and patriarchal views.
Although Trump frequently denies assaulting Carroll, his behavior during the first trial revealed his delight in sexual violence. He insinuated that men have been allowed to rape for “millions of years,” suggesting that sexual assault is justified if the victim is attractive enough. In Trump’s worldview, women are nothing more than sexual objects to be exploited and degraded. This dehumanization even extends to his own daughter, as he has made inappropriate comments about her in public interviews.
But why do MAGA supporters endorse such abusive behavior towards women? It stems from the core values of the movement itself. MAGA operates as a cult-like following, with Trump as their demigod leader. They subscribe to an authoritarian and reactionary ideology that fosters a belief in natural social hierarchies based on identity. Power and the ability to harm those beneath them with impunity are seen as symbols of social status. As such, the abuse of power becomes a validation of their own superiority and a way to bring others down.
Furthermore, MAGA supporters view Trump as a proxy for their own desires for vengeance on their perceived enemies. When he abuses women, it validates their own misogyny and reinforces their belief in their own social superiority. In their zero-sum worldview, any victimization, degradation, and dehumanization of those they consider beneath them is seen as a victory.
It is essential to understand that this indifference and support for Trump’s abusive behavior towards women is not confined to his supporters alone. The entire Republican Party has shown a willingness to overlook his actions, highlighting the complete absence of morality and standards within their ranks. Even in the face of numerous credible accusations and testimonies, they continue to endorse and defend him.
The underlying issue is that MAGA and conservative ideology as a whole thrive on maintaining established hierarchies and power imbalances. Gendered violence serves as a tool to reinforce this hierarchy and put women in their perceived rightful place. It’s not just a lack of care; it’s a systematic and deliberate endorsement of this kind of behavior.
The upcoming elections offer an opportunity for women to make their voices heard. It’s crucial to show up in large numbers and vote against those who support and enable this abusive behavior. MAGA’s treatment of women reflects a deeper problem within society, and it’s up to us to create a future that values equality and respect for all individuals.
In conclusion, it’s not that MAGA doesn’t believe E. Jean Carroll; they just don’t care that Trump abuses women. This mindset stems from the misogynistic core of American conservatism that has only grown more repugnant under Trump’s leadership. The endorsement of Trump’s abusive behavior towards women is not a result of ignorance; rather, it is a conscious decision to support a leader who reinforces their own sexist beliefs. The upcoming elections present an opportunity to challenge this mentality and strive for a society that values and respects women.