Has Trump Defined a New Conservative Identity?

Trump's Controversial Transformation of Conservatism

Donald Trump's influence has been nothing short of profound, particularly evident in his second term. The traditional pillars of conservatism, previously championed by figures such as William F. Buckley Jr. and Ronald Reagan, seem to have crumbled under the weight of Trump's unique brand of politics.

A Shift from Principles to Personality

During his first term, Trump navigated the fragmented landscape of conservatism, introducing changes that sometimes felt more like superficial renovations than true reform. As noted, his approach was often described as the "caretaker" of a decaying conservative movement; renovations were made, yes, but the foundational issues were largely ignored.

“The smoke of demolition is everywhere, cranes are swinging wildly.”

Now, in his second term, a more radical renovation is underway. In place of the ornate decorum of the past, a stark new identity rooted in American nationalism is emerging. This shift raises the question: what does conservatism look like without the traditional tenets of limited government and moral conservatism?

The New Focus: Nationalism Over Idealism

Trump's nationalism is increasingly inward-looking, focusing on American interests with a strong aversion to globalism. Unlike his predecessors, who embraced a can-do spirit of internationalism, Trump's administration seems more inclined to "America First" policies, emphasizing economic intervention over laissez-faire approaches.

1. The Rising Influence of Economic Intervention

This new conservatism is less about ideological purity and more about practical governance. Expect a right that may engage more heavily with the economy, possibly even expanding government's role in ways that past conservatives would have found unacceptable. As shifting global conditions provoke debates around economics, the implications could be substantial.

2. Immigration and National Identity

Immigration remains a core issue under this emerging nationalism. The dialogue has largely moved away from a fixation on cultural conservatism towards a fixation on national identity, thereby altering the way conservatives discuss citizenship and belonging in America.

• Will the right embrace multiracialism as a defining characteristic?
• Or will it revert to more exclusionary, white-identitarian narratives?

Historical Perspectives

Trump's historical impact is hard to place. By some analyses, he represents a “disjunctive” president — someone who embodies the transition between one order and another, highlighting the need for change without a clear vision of what that change should entail.

Yet commentators argue that Trump is far beyond this definition, potentially leaving a long-lasting influence by dismantling previous frameworks while failing to provide a coherent alternative.

“A future nationalist right could be isolationist or realist or imperialist.”

Unpacking the Future of Nationalism

Looking toward 2028 and beyond, the question is whether a nationalist successor can reflect Trump's fragmented yet impactful ideology. This successor could take various forms, either through interventionism or isolationism, continuity or change.

Personalistic Politics and Their Consequences

Trump's reliance on personality politics introduces significant volatility. Fundamental questions regarding the nation's direction—its approach to foreign relations, economic strategies, and social policies—remain unsettled.

Constitutional Norms and Governance

As Trump's second term unfolds with a noticeable “Caesarist” tendency, we must differentiate between amending or outright disregarding constitutional norms. The legacy of personalistic governance poses challenges that future leaders will have to contend with.

“Trump may not be remembered as the founder, but as a pivotal developer.”

Bridging the Ideological Divide

Imagine a nationalism that is pragmatic and stable, advocating for realist foreign policy and a commitment to democratic principles. While such a vision may seem fanciful, it could offer a more cohesive future for conservatism that resonates with a broader audience.

Conclusion: The Paradox of Trump's Legacy

Ultimately, what remains clear is that Trump has catalyzed a radical transformation within conservatism, and the subsequent identity will likely be a patchwork of unresolved tensions and possibilities. As we continue to deliberate this evolving landscape, it's crucial to recognize that the future of the conservative movement hangs in a delicate balance.