I would be interested in hearing again from these supporters- in a year or so, to see it their feelings changed. I am horrified at the lack of true character in this man- evident though his campaign. And even more amazed by those who saw the worst in Trump and hoped for the best. Might thy chose the same in personal relationships?
1
Why? Because women act against their own interest and that of other women. Trump has no respect for women, he treats his wife with no respect and views women as things and not people. Yet, HRC is worse, because she is a woman.
2
Now what?
I picketed before, I'm aghast now, and it seems each day is stranger than the last; Steve Bannon??
I am still disillusioned by 53% of my white female friends.
I picketed before, I'm aghast now, and it seems each day is stranger than the last; Steve Bannon??
I am still disillusioned by 53% of my white female friends.
6
Please follow-up with these women after this first week in office, after a month, three months, a year, etc. Because I doubt many of these reasons for voting for Trump will stand the test of time, and I want to know if they find new justifications to support him or if they'll change their minds.
8
Unfortunately their opinions are not going to change. They were not smart enough to correctly evaluate the overwhelming evidence before he was elected. Their intellectual gifts won't suddenly increase any more than the so-called preaident's intellegence will. They will all sunk further into the more of their alternat reality and alternative facts.
1
This was an unprecedented election. People were manipulated by created well organized fake news, lies, rhetoric, utopian promises and fear. The candidate with zero character survived on lies and the tune changed depending on the time of the day. Actions have consequences. Some of the manipulated voters have started realizing the mistakes they made. The man with mental instability is going to put us at a great danger. Sorry, it is too late now.
Ask Rebecca Gregory if she really thinks that HRC objectifies women.
2
Please remember: Women, as a whole, voted for Hillary Clinton (well, as a whole so did the American people by 2.6 million votes). White, non-college educated women voted for Donald Trump. I think these women bear out what kind of woman voted for the tiny dictator. Shame on them. Shame on their narrow- minded-limitedly-informed selves.
2
First, let's all just imagine the comments Trump would make about each of these women behind closed doors. I realize the intent of this article is to attempt to put a human face to the unthinkable--a woman voting for a sexual predator, a racist, a con man. But, at least for me, the very fact that they voted for him tells me all I need to know about them. I have no common ground with them other than gender and race. I don't care about their excuses. This is their last hurrah...in ten years their voices will recede into a white majority past that will never return.
4
Remember, it's okay to mock a people, as long as they're white rural people. The vitriol and hate in the comment thread exemplifies what's wrong with our party, and why we earned a slap in the face from this election.
2
Exactly John! It saddens me to see that vitriolic debates have replaced passionate conversations.
They weren't rural - they are from suburban Detroit. "Respect for Police" - a vote for white supremacy. "A Good man, deep down" - 2 for for white supremacy. "He Knows How to Build Things" - 3 in a row. Die-hard Bernie Supporter - now votes for Trump? - insane. "Didn’t Like Him, Until a Rally" - another vote for white supremacy. "I'm not a racist" - yes you are. "No Time for Political Correctness" - another white supremacist. "Can’t Put Him in a Box" - another white supremacist. "He Was Egregious, but She Lied" - she accepted his lies, because she agrees with his white supremacy. "Dark Suspicions" - think Hillary is a murderer. Just Stupid. "Good Business Sense" - probably just stupid. "A Voice for Women" - for white women, especially white supremacist women. So 1 insane, 2 stupid and all the rest racist. About what I expected.
7
We were basically left with two terribly flawed candidates that voters had to hold their noses and vote for.
The popular demagogue technically won over the progressive identity obsessed candidate.
The popular demagogue technically won over the progressive identity obsessed candidate.
It's a popular thing to say, particularly among 1) men and 2) those justifying the loss and absolute support of the lies and vitriol surrounding a qualified woman.
2
I applaud these women's' interest in politics,and their recognition of the importance of voting in democracies, and especially their energy and devotion to make their opinions known, despite snowstorms and other diversions. I've read their opinions carefully, as if I were grading them (which I did for 30 years as an academic). All in all, from what I could discern from their own words, they are poorly educated, highly suggestible, and--in several cases--dumb as rocks.
11
Regarding the self-satisfied elitism and snobbery of many on the Left, Q. E. D..
1
Imagine sitting on front of one of these women trying to interview for a job. And you are Not White. And your competition is a room full of Eddie Haskells.
6
There are apparently more Moms of Eddie Haskel than of the "Beav."
2
I was surprised how many of these ladies based their duty as a citizen to weigh their vote on one circumstance like Obama chastising a policeman - I believe that was when Professor Henry Louis Gates got handcuffed and ARRESTED for going into his OWN house. It was absurd and deserved to be called that.
I do not think for a second that that lady would be fine with her own husband being arrested at his own door with his own key. I think they would cheer Trump excoriating someone like that. I get tired of this kind of blabber passing for something we ought to feel sorry for. Denying women's rights and if any of these women know a gay kid - those are real problems, not Whine Line stuff.
I do not think for a second that that lady would be fine with her own husband being arrested at his own door with his own key. I think they would cheer Trump excoriating someone like that. I get tired of this kind of blabber passing for something we ought to feel sorry for. Denying women's rights and if any of these women know a gay kid - those are real problems, not Whine Line stuff.
8
The problem is it's difficult to stand in the other person's shoes. So one incident makes the difference. In Obama's case he was not white. that clearly added to the anger.
4
"The overwhelming response showed me how much more we have to learn about each other in this divided America — and how important it is not to reduce people to stereotypes."
Much of the dividing and stereo typing has been done by the Democrats to try to focus on single issue voters and capture their votes. Gays, women, environmentalists, etc, etc. All of these difference in opinions have always been around. The bi-coastal media elites, mostly liberal of course, failed to understand that many of these same voters have finally tired of the failed Washington status quo. This did not happen overnight, nor in the last couple of years. This has been building for decades and this frustration cuts across ALL demographic lines.
Much of the dividing and stereo typing has been done by the Democrats to try to focus on single issue voters and capture their votes. Gays, women, environmentalists, etc, etc. All of these difference in opinions have always been around. The bi-coastal media elites, mostly liberal of course, failed to understand that many of these same voters have finally tired of the failed Washington status quo. This did not happen overnight, nor in the last couple of years. This has been building for decades and this frustration cuts across ALL demographic lines.
2
Chira’s article on ‘Women Who Voted For Trump’ was such a vital piece before the Women's March and I hope it helped include these voices that are so in line with every other American woman. The featured women are feminists, pro-life after first trimester, pro-gay, previous Obama voters and pro Bernie. Many more diversities of thoughts are covered in an interesting block quote format where each woman bravely stands out.
It would be interesting to read some opinions from your first call-out, women who gave a committed vote to the Republican Party, even though Trump was nominee. The cohort you chose seem to be acutely self and community aware women.
Extreme provocation—from either sides—can unbalance unity for what matters the most, policies. A very important piece indeed.
It would be interesting to read some opinions from your first call-out, women who gave a committed vote to the Republican Party, even though Trump was nominee. The cohort you chose seem to be acutely self and community aware women.
Extreme provocation—from either sides—can unbalance unity for what matters the most, policies. A very important piece indeed.
1
I read through these again and again, and I couldn't shake the feeling that I'd been with these women before. I just realized that they represent various sides of my own mother and grandmother who both voted for Trump. In our family, the men are the exalted ones. When someone is pregnant, people jump for joy when they find out it's a boy. It is a more tepid response for baby girls. We grew up getting out of "our" mens' way - physically, mentally, economically. "Don't emasculate him" or "you can't make a man feel bad about their nature" were commonly said. When I had a boyfriend in HS and broke up with him because he was cruel, my mother lamented that I was the one being cruel for breaking it off with him. It should be his call. Also, "it would be a mistake to choose to be single. Do you know how hard it is to get a boyfriend?" My aunt divorced and she took on a boyfriend who eventually raped my cousin. My aunt and my mother were both mad at my cousin for "leading him on." He ended up getting going to jail, but my aunt never forgave her own daughter for "turning on her". See, that guy had a steady paycheck and now it was gone. And forget the whole race thing. If I ever brought home a friend who was black or otherwise, they'd get the cold shoulder in our house. Instead, I hung out at their houses. "They have their culture and we have ours." Some of these women seem to be rational in their arguments. But the coded language from the others raises the hair on my neck.
17
Household income issues overtook gender issues. Hillary lost Macomb county because she was busy visiting Wall Street for money instead of Van Dyke Avenue in Warren, Michigan for votes. This time it wad the wrong decision.
"give a man a fish and you feed him for a day; teach a man to fish and you feed him for a lifetime."
The War on Poverty, which started in the 1960’s, and progress on improving civil rights has stalled. The question is why!
It was not because insufficient funds were dedicated to address the issue. It was not because of bad intentions and/or programs. It was because of poor implementation, follow through and the will to do what was needed to succeed in an efficient manner.
The graphic below was taken from http://federalsafetynet.com/poverty-and-spending-over-the-years.html with the numbers being adjusted for inflation. ... http://lstrn.us/2gPpPPD
"give a man a fish and you feed him for a day; teach a man to fish and you feed him for a lifetime."
The War on Poverty, which started in the 1960’s, and progress on improving civil rights has stalled. The question is why!
It was not because insufficient funds were dedicated to address the issue. It was not because of bad intentions and/or programs. It was because of poor implementation, follow through and the will to do what was needed to succeed in an efficient manner.
The graphic below was taken from http://federalsafetynet.com/poverty-and-spending-over-the-years.html with the numbers being adjusted for inflation. ... http://lstrn.us/2gPpPPD
2
All enlightened women with a backbone!
Viva trump!
Viva trump!
1
It is hardly a coincidence that of all ethnic groups that the ONLY group in which the majority of women voted for Trump are WHITE. A strong undercurrent of bigotry still runs throughout white America. Nativism. Anti-globalism. Protectionism. These all are tinged with something mighty close to racism. A fear that the rest of the world is catching up, and perhaps surpassing white America. And people on the left are also guilty of feeding this. Bernie Sanders paints nearly as bleak a picture of the current state of white America as Trump. And his policies would probably have just as much a negative affect on developing countries. Only we are supposed to ignore these consequences, well, because corporations are evil.
6
You shouldn't even have to do any of the research. It's not clear only to democrats, who like to put people in "baskets" of men, women, black, gay, lesbian, trans (or LGBT now as if they are all the same), White, Asian, Hispanics, etc... But the reality is each person is a unique individual. Sure sharing gender or ethnicity does have some influence on the thought process, but it's only up to a point. When you look at the fact that two brothers, like the Baldwins, can have opposing views when it comes to politics, what makes you think two random women should think the same ? But the left thinks it's HORRIBLE that a WOMAN can support Trump. What I find horrible is more and more people in my country are becoming leftists. Talk about a zombie apocalypse. This is a realistic one that is happening . See what happened in Venezuela ? That's apocalyptic right there, and it's frightening to think the United States could fall into that pit. The election of Trump is a much needed reprieve!! But I'm still fearful. There could be a civil war if the leftward movement continues, because no sensible person can live with a leftist controlled government. Just imagine the whole country becomes like California. At that time, the US constitution will definitely be rewritten according to leftist belief, and there will have to be civil war to save the Republic.
1
Hope the front page today doesn't scare you. Gitmo and Walls, is that what you want? Maybe no clean air or water or no contraception. Women will be barefoot and pregnant if they can get that way due to carcinogens and other chemicals that will be everywhere without federal and state regulations. Maybe these young women and children will starve with no social network. That ok with you? Talk about zombies, go ahead and stick your head in the sand about how regulations keep our water, air and food safe. Keep us safe from the capitalist exploiters who only care about making money.
13
TomSD, you spent the first part of your post arguing that people should be treated as individuals and the second discussing people on the left as though they are a monolith. We are a vastly divided country right now and you are correct when you echo Lincoln's words that a house divided against itself cannot stand....But if you think that one side bears the responsibility for that division over another then you are absolutely contributing to the problem. If you truly do believe that people are more than a single, identifying label please follow your own lead.
3
There's a difference. It's not people who are monolithic. It's the ideology that is, and when its propaganda is spread to enough people, who otherwise would lead very normal, productive lives, then we're doomed. I've seen it happened in my own country. Don't want to see it happening in the US.
Ideology is dangerous, whether it comes from left or right. Today we're moving so far away from what is a normal life, which is be nice to others, be considerate, don't be greedy, work hard, etc...
But no, today both left and right are bombarding each other with ideology. It is destroying the country. The left is trying to look at people by categories in order to pitch them against each other. The right advocates things like free market, individualism, etc.., but it's not the productive kind, because the kind of free market the right wants only benefits the biggest dogs in the game, and individualism boils down to big fish swallow small fish. That's the natural way, don't complain.
If you're observant, Trump is neither of those extremes, so instead of wait and see how his agenda pans out, many people fell victim to leftist ideology and fight Trump over whatever he does.
Ideology is dangerous, whether it comes from left or right. Today we're moving so far away from what is a normal life, which is be nice to others, be considerate, don't be greedy, work hard, etc...
But no, today both left and right are bombarding each other with ideology. It is destroying the country. The left is trying to look at people by categories in order to pitch them against each other. The right advocates things like free market, individualism, etc.., but it's not the productive kind, because the kind of free market the right wants only benefits the biggest dogs in the game, and individualism boils down to big fish swallow small fish. That's the natural way, don't complain.
If you're observant, Trump is neither of those extremes, so instead of wait and see how his agenda pans out, many people fell victim to leftist ideology and fight Trump over whatever he does.
White women are very racist...just not as high profile as men.
6
Even more in my experience.
Most of the women who voted for Trump appear to be unrepresentative of white women. They are Gen X or older and, since Trump got 80% of the evangelical vote and probably a comparable number of rightwing Catholics, they were more likely motivated by sexism. But I don't doubt that racial resentment played an important role too. Even with a low turnout, there was still a 12% gender gap. If the Times goes back in a few years to interview them (as suggested by commenters below), I doubt that they will change their tune much regardless of Trump's performance.
1
Sadly, Trump won 53% of white women.
Wow...It's amazing to me that so many people still don't get it. Hillary had teams of social media staffers and spent millions of dollars trying to discredit Trump..and after thousands of attempts she failed. There are still enough people out there that can see past the "salacious" headlines, do a little digging into, a spot a phony, fact less and baseless allegations. Trump is not a sexual predator. A come on from a man is not an attack. Any lunatic that believes rude remarks from a man is a sexual assault needs to check themselves into the nearest University and find yourself a safe room to rock yourself in. One who is a sexual predator...Bill Clinton. He's been charged, impeached, and has paid restitution for his actions. Those who voted for Trump are not racist, ignorant, or misogynistic. We don't believe in open boarders, what to keep this Country safe, what the Constitution up held, what a less evasive government into our everyday lives and mostly didn't want a criminal in the White House. Trump is not perfect, he does come with faults. But the deal is done, he won. Regardless of the media ant Washington's enter circle trying to take him down...he won. His is the President. What you all should be doing now is going about your lives, doing YOUR best to make YOUR situation better for YOURSELF. Help to bring people together in making this a better place for ALL.
2
Yes, Trump is a sexual predator. Own it- you voted for it. Ignorance is no "safe spot" for the hard right wing. Sorry.
Bragging about grabbing women "because they will let you do anything because you are a celebrity" : Trump's words: Own it.
Yelling Lock Her Up when Trump is colluding with a foreign government. Supporting an invasive State into the reproductive decisions of women blows your arguments away. Own that too.
Citizens have a duty to protect the Constitution- no passes for Trump. Sorry. No can do.
Bragging about grabbing women "because they will let you do anything because you are a celebrity" : Trump's words: Own it.
Yelling Lock Her Up when Trump is colluding with a foreign government. Supporting an invasive State into the reproductive decisions of women blows your arguments away. Own that too.
Citizens have a duty to protect the Constitution- no passes for Trump. Sorry. No can do.
15
All of the women I know who voted for Trump are either racist or intellectually incurious. They don't read real news or pay attention outside of their Facebook feed. They are in denial over the rights they will lose like access to healthcare, clean air and water, social security and Medicare. They think they will get some big tax break but that is a lie too. They are all in for a surprise
Do us a favor and interview them again in six months or a year.
Do us a favor and interview them again in six months or a year.
46
Everyone I ever heard say that Worst Word about those of African descent were dedicated Democrats. They never read real news either if that helps.
1
I haven't read all the comments so forgive me if this has already been suggested but how about coming back to these women one year from now and interviewing them again to see if Trump lived up to their expectations? Very curious to read what they'll say then.
25
No need to re-interview them. They will blame Obama and the Democrats for whatever goes wrong.
5
What it shows is how much so much American women suffer from internalized misogyny. And externalized racism.
33
It’s just so typical of MALE economists! They think all there is to stimulus is size, timing, and composition! What about MY demand management?
I re-read the original article. It seems pretty clear why they voted for Trump, and their reasons are not much different from what we might have expected. No upending of the conventional wisdom here.
Resentment of assertion of rights by minorities:"we need to educate people on how to behave when they’re being pulled over by the police"
No understanding of macroeconomics: "their ideas to help our country out of debt"
Ignorance of Trump resume: "He Knows How to Build Things"
Holding Hilary to higher standards for her dissembling vs. his lies: "Don’t go back and forth. Don’t pander."
Ignorance of immigration process for refugees: " I don’t want immigrants, accepting them without doing the background checks"
Subscription to conspiracy theories: "But there are allegations about killing people who get in her way — Vince Foster, people like that"
Resentment of assertion of rights by minorities:"we need to educate people on how to behave when they’re being pulled over by the police"
No understanding of macroeconomics: "their ideas to help our country out of debt"
Ignorance of Trump resume: "He Knows How to Build Things"
Holding Hilary to higher standards for her dissembling vs. his lies: "Don’t go back and forth. Don’t pander."
Ignorance of immigration process for refugees: " I don’t want immigrants, accepting them without doing the background checks"
Subscription to conspiracy theories: "But there are allegations about killing people who get in her way — Vince Foster, people like that"
48
You nailed it with just one word- Ignorance.
22
Id est, your self-image is so shaky that you must condemn all those with opposing opinions as whatever the word of the hour is - racist, stupid, uninformed, incurious, too traditional, to good with arithmetic and budgets, or whatever you must say to make yourself feel Cool & Awesome again?
What went so wrong that you immediately seize this easy ''out?''
What went so wrong that you immediately seize this easy ''out?''
1
How about ignoring people trying to keep an American ambassador for 13 hours while they were under a well-orchestrated military attack using modern weapons and electronic technology?
She REFUSED to intervene when there were assets less than an hour away for POLITICAL reasons. Now imagine your son in that scene and THEN vote for the practiced liar.
THEN she covered it up with a completely false story. For shame.
She REFUSED to intervene when there were assets less than an hour away for POLITICAL reasons. Now imagine your son in that scene and THEN vote for the practiced liar.
THEN she covered it up with a completely false story. For shame.
1
Traumatized women side with their abuser, story at 11.
29
There ya go. Love it!
1
Most of the women interviewed for this article were not hatemongers, but most were ill-informed and seemed to be willing to overlook the many lies and unverified statements put forth by Trump. In part, this is probably wishful thinking: a desire to turn back the clock to the time when American workers could produce products cheap enough for they themselves to buy.
However, the media is definitely at fault for not calling out Trump's statements and/or behavior more consistently.
It is only a matter of time until they realize they've been duped.
However, the media is definitely at fault for not calling out Trump's statements and/or behavior more consistently.
It is only a matter of time until they realize they've been duped.
13
Not hateful racists, certainly none of these women are actively looking to lynch anyone. But they are all very aware of the value of their white privilege. And they just wish those brown folks would "know their place".
1
The reason why so many of us kept silent is the same reason so many of us keep silent now. We want to keep our jobs, keep our homes & cars from being vandalized and our pets killed. I live in a heavily democratic county and work for an industry supporting the state.
5
Hogwash. Democrats have been the ones fighting for you to have health care, education, a clean and safe environment etc. This kind of idiocy is truly frightening.
26
Ask Megyn Kelly what happened to her after Trump attacked her on Twitter. She was threatened and her children were threatened. And she was on YOUR side.
19
There are enough idiots to go around and they happen to be on both sides.
2
I'm not saying nobody voted for Trump, but I don't know any woman -any person- who would want to vote for someone who reminded them of their ex...
There are many, many ads wanting to "rent your FB acct!" on Craigslist and elsewhere. It's time to recognize that just because you contacted someone through Facebook, or LinkedIn, does not mean that their identity is "guaranteed" any more than a Gmail pseudonym. (If you doubt this, just glance at Craigslist "gigs" or "jobs".
I think it's startling that on January 15th, most comments on local news sites were trolls for Trump, then immediately after the 19th the comments were all anti-Trump.
Combine this with photos of empty subway stations on Inauguration Day (https://www.washingtonian.com/2017/01/20/inauguration-day-metro-empty/ ).
There is something rotten here, an outside virtual force that plans to tear both parties apart, and our nation. We must work together to identify it.
There are many, many ads wanting to "rent your FB acct!" on Craigslist and elsewhere. It's time to recognize that just because you contacted someone through Facebook, or LinkedIn, does not mean that their identity is "guaranteed" any more than a Gmail pseudonym. (If you doubt this, just glance at Craigslist "gigs" or "jobs".
I think it's startling that on January 15th, most comments on local news sites were trolls for Trump, then immediately after the 19th the comments were all anti-Trump.
Combine this with photos of empty subway stations on Inauguration Day (https://www.washingtonian.com/2017/01/20/inauguration-day-metro-empty/ ).
There is something rotten here, an outside virtual force that plans to tear both parties apart, and our nation. We must work together to identify it.
Yes, we have a lot to learn. And as someone who did not vote for Trump - albeit because he seemed unstable and dangerous, as opposed to his opponent who was merely politically unappealing - I am eager to learn. But I am unikely to do so from this paper, which treats the US outside big cities as a foreign country, complete with embedded reporters, and with special appeals (outreach?) to its natives, as in this article.
5
Interesting article though I feel the issues many of these women supported in a Trump presidency are undermined because of his dishonesty,. Is anti PC better than having a president who constantly fabricates and tells untruths? How do you trust? How do you justify the bullying and twitter rants? Is having a leader who divides the nation as important as the economy? Is repealing healthcare before a plan is in place really an answer? The environmental issues have lost importance, climate change is a hoax? Do you believe this as well? I am trying to understand how the priorities of these women are so different than mine. I have children who have been positively affected by ACA and have not seen premium's double on my own ACA insurance. I have seen an economy return from the brink and I have trusted that Obama was not a vengeful dishonest person. I have seen Americans mowed down by guns and now they will have ability for more guns. These are some of the issues that made me not value Trump. All women but with so very different view points. I am wondering how in the world we will unite as a country when we are so different, and this is a great concern.
15
Women who voted for Trump didn't think at all.
11
I question the integrity of this whole articl, when the author states: they would have preferred to interview them in their homes, but the weather and road conditions made this impossible.
Macomb County MI is not in the backwoods with dirt roads, and with living in the Tri-County area, I know we haven't had weather that would make roads undrivable.
I'm not a Trump supporter, yet small unnecessary alternative facts like this proves there are those, both in the media and in the Trump Administration, that have a problem with the truth and "Just the Facts."
Macomb County MI is not in the backwoods with dirt roads, and with living in the Tri-County area, I know we haven't had weather that would make roads undrivable.
I'm not a Trump supporter, yet small unnecessary alternative facts like this proves there are those, both in the media and in the Trump Administration, that have a problem with the truth and "Just the Facts."
4
Don't forget- more women voted for Hillary than Trump (54-42%) But more WHITE college educated women voted for Trump (53%). They can give every reason in the book why they voted for a racist, misogynistic candidate but I wish they would own up to the fact that they, deep down, agreed with his racist views. Otherwise more minority women would have voted for him as well. Not buying their excuses.
19
That is false. Hillary won high earning white, college educated women. She also won black women and Hispanic women. She also won very poor women. The only groups she didn't win - and admittedly a large ones were white women with no college diploma and those earning middle incomes.
The trope that women handed Trump this election is a media-fostered half truth that, like so many stories, lacks nuance and examination of context. It's almost fetishistic the way the press approaches women who voted for Trump. Voters make choices outside the statistical expectation all the time.
But the reality is white male voters are is responsible for Trump's victory. Overwhelmingly. He won them in every single category. So let's not pretend on Election Day the patriarchy suddenly gave all the power to a matriarchy.
The trope that women handed Trump this election is a media-fostered half truth that, like so many stories, lacks nuance and examination of context. It's almost fetishistic the way the press approaches women who voted for Trump. Voters make choices outside the statistical expectation all the time.
But the reality is white male voters are is responsible for Trump's victory. Overwhelmingly. He won them in every single category. So let's not pretend on Election Day the patriarchy suddenly gave all the power to a matriarchy.
4
Here's what bugged me about this piece: There was no rebuttal to a lot of the crazy and contradictory answers that were first printed. Only know do we learn the author's thoughts. And as for stereotypes? As diverse as their backgrounds were, they shared one common trait: Irrational and illogical explanations for voting for Trump.
I would prefer that the Times not print this kind of dribble again. We don't need to see any more efforts at trying to understand the mindset of people whose choices defy common sense and reason.
I would prefer that the Times not print this kind of dribble again. We don't need to see any more efforts at trying to understand the mindset of people whose choices defy common sense and reason.
8
''I would prefer that the Times not print this kind of dribble again.''
Why so you can luxuriate in the arrogance of only hearing an echo chamber of your limited views. So more ignorance is the answer you want. Sorry ignorance is not bliss.
What a scary view you have. You are no defender of the 1st amendment. Well meaning fascism comes to mind.
''they shared one common trait: Irrational and illogical explanations for voting for Trump.''
Sure you are not a bigot putting everyone into a bag despite their differences. Very not impressed!
Why so you can luxuriate in the arrogance of only hearing an echo chamber of your limited views. So more ignorance is the answer you want. Sorry ignorance is not bliss.
What a scary view you have. You are no defender of the 1st amendment. Well meaning fascism comes to mind.
''they shared one common trait: Irrational and illogical explanations for voting for Trump.''
Sure you are not a bigot putting everyone into a bag despite their differences. Very not impressed!
2
Great interviews - interesting background. I remember thinking when I was reading the interviews, that it seemed like an awful lot of women said they voted for Obama, then for Trump. I'll admit, I was thinking, this can't be right - what, all of them voted for Obama? it's got to be just something they're saying for effect - But now I understand.
Obvious suggestion: follow-up interviews! Six months? Every week?
Obvious suggestion: follow-up interviews! Six months? Every week?
2
Perhaps you could do a companion article of women who, despite perhaps not liking Sec'y Clinton, nonetheless voted for her instead of Trump, including formerly Republican voters.
11
Its intrinsically insulting to women to postulate that the only issue of importance in the election was Trump's public demeanor toward women, which is disgraceful. But POTUS is primarily responsible for national policy and Trump has called for a more pragmatic policy direction. For anyone who values policy above appearances, a vote for Trump's new direction is fully understandable, fully appropriate, and fully consistent with the national interest. This sort of value compromise shouldn't be a mystery to any mature adult. Why has this phenomenon baffled the left so completely?
6
Since when is sexual assault a matter of appearances?
Trump doesn't have a pragmatic policy on anything. He just lied about the weather for God's sake. The man is unhinged.
Trump doesn't have a pragmatic policy on anything. He just lied about the weather for God's sake. The man is unhinged.
7
LOL - you must be living in the alternate reality that Kelly Anne Conway told us about. Your description of Trump does not match reality here on planet earth.
9
I'm a mature adult and I'm not baffled by the phenomenon, just tremendously disappointed. By voting him into office, we have told our children and the rest of the world that the fundamentals we have held up so high for so long, the morals, the values, belief in inclusiveness,- all the ideals we've used since forever to differentiate ourselves from the 'lesser' nations - we've told them they're all lies. Because we clearly don't even believe in those principles ourselves since one of the greatest offenders can become president of our united states - our beacon. What will they say - the youngest among us, our girls, our minority populations, our disabled, the women who at this very moment are being disrespected and defiled - both here and abroad. I'll tell you. They'll say the same thing I'm saying as one of them -,
"YOU LIED!"
"YOU LIED!"
7
It is extremely hard to see beyond the horrible person that Trump is and understand why people voted for him. It boils down to desperation. Desperate for structural change to be specific.
Personally, I can not get beyond Trump's instability, immaturity, his dog whistle, or his authoritarian tendencies. Yet, for others it would appear desperation for change overcame any apprehension they may have had.
What we needed was a major remodel, but instead we are looking at a complete demolition. Get ready to test the checks and balances of our constitutional republic.
Personally, I can not get beyond Trump's instability, immaturity, his dog whistle, or his authoritarian tendencies. Yet, for others it would appear desperation for change overcame any apprehension they may have had.
What we needed was a major remodel, but instead we are looking at a complete demolition. Get ready to test the checks and balances of our constitutional republic.
6
Such delusion and ignorance - Trump is a successful businessman, Obama was in it for the celebrity, Hillary killed Vince Foster, and America is a Christian country. I can't with these women. I really can't.
20
In one of The Onion's "person on the street" episodes, the familiar white haired-woman we've been seeing for decades says somethiing to the effect of, "Sometimes you have to vote against your own interests in order to vote against other people's interests." I think that says it pretty neatly.
22
Not one concern about climate change and the devastating effects it will have on our children and grandchildren. Just money, money, money. Sad!
9
It's interesting to me that people would vote for Trump because they liked what he was saying, while knowing full well that he is a prolific liar.
Was this a mass "Go ahead, lie to me!!" manifestation?
Was this a mass "Go ahead, lie to me!!" manifestation?
10
First of all, Trump was not "boasting" about something he did. That is a media lie. Trump was stating that the women he was referring to allow men to do anything to them if the man doing it is a celebrity. So this lie, just like the media lie that Trump attacked a "gold star" family is a media fabrication designed to get Clinton elected.
Obviously, the media's efforts failed.
Obviously, the media's efforts failed.
5
Yes, he was boasting. We have video of Trump lying, taunting people, threatening people etc. Wake up and pay attention.
7
You obviously have a serious reading comprehension problem. Read the transcript of the tape, instead of making up garbage.
4
From the transcripts: "...I'm automatically attracted to beautiful--I just start kissing them. It's like a magnet. Just kiss. I don't even wait. And when you're a star, they let you do it. You can do anything." Trump is clearly describing that he just kisses (and implies that he does anything he else he wants) without waiting. This sounds a lot like sexual assault to me (sexual assault includes unwanted touching above or under clothes), and not some random media lie. I think he also mistakes inaction due to shock for permission, the classic lie a sexual assaulter tell himself.
3
Stop throwing the word racist around as an attempt at intimidation.
We might just start to embrace it and then you have nothing.
We might just start to embrace it and then you have nothing.
4
OMG - that ship has sailed - and the fact that you'd even threaten to embrace the word racist, for any reason, says it all.
4
MOST White folks that voted, voted for Trump.
OWN that like Black folks and minorities owned the Obama vote.
Please be proud of your choice, as we were when we voted for Obama.
I see Trump as a racist fool and preventable disaster.
You don't.
God bless America.
I am sure he will make you all proud.
OWN that like Black folks and minorities owned the Obama vote.
Please be proud of your choice, as we were when we voted for Obama.
I see Trump as a racist fool and preventable disaster.
You don't.
God bless America.
I am sure he will make you all proud.
2
The reason why I voted for Trump was because I liked what he was saying. Our country has been going down hill and has been for a long time. The USA use to compete with other industrialized countries scholastically and we use to rank high and could compete with other countries like Germany and Japan but now our nation when it comes to testing ranks very low like a third world nation. The crime rate is out the roof and many of us have experienced this first hand. What country has a country where they can not control it and anything goes? It is called common sense logic to enforce the laws. I am not a woman of hate nor a woman that is easily brainwashed. The media did not brain wash me like they did some in my family. They reported things out of context and then it was an all out war because Trump stood up to them and gave it back and the war continues between him and the media to this day. Report the news and not your feelings.. I am glad he stood up to them because they deserved it. Just the crowd size alone they said it was small at his inauguration. I saw it and it was a massive crowd. I have seen the photo of Trump and the crowd taken at the same time and it was the opposite of what they showed on cnn. It is become comical really. A smooth talker like Obama is not the same as a real doer of good. I will remember Obama as giving Iran that funds terrorism 33 billion dollars in cash secretly in bundles not to be traced to build up the nuclear power.
6
Tina,
I think you are incorrect about your being brainwashed. What really concerns me is your statement about 33 billion dollars in cash bundles to build up nuclear power in Iran. There are many legitimate news articles about this which you might want to read in order to fully understand what actually happened. You are right about one thing, it is becoming comical!
I think you are incorrect about your being brainwashed. What really concerns me is your statement about 33 billion dollars in cash bundles to build up nuclear power in Iran. There are many legitimate news articles about this which you might want to read in order to fully understand what actually happened. You are right about one thing, it is becoming comical!
3
No, the media did not "brain wash"you. Trump did. But you were and are his willing accomplice. Your comment is full of so many errors that it would take an afternoon to correct them, not that you would be willing to educate yourself. Trump will not last four years, but the effects of his presidency will negatively impact this country for decades. Thanks for allowing your ignorance and fear to help elect one of the worst demagogues in the history of the United States.
4
The crime rate is not "through the roof". It has, in fact, been dropping in nearly every place.
What does seem to be through the roof is fear.
What does seem to be through the roof is fear.
4
The real reason is that potentially those who voted would also be making similar actions in private. (could be).
The original article was excellent, and this commentary is informative and interesting. Other similar articles that have appeared in the Times in recent weeks, such as the piece on Niles, Michigan, are also appreciated.
It appears that following the election and its unexpected outcome, the Times has made a conscious decision to expand its coverage of the previously forgotten territory west of the Hudson and east of the Sierra Nevadas. As a former New Yorker and longtime denizen of Indiana, I think this is a good thing.
Two observations:
First, I hope the Times doesn’t become overly reliant on Facebook. If it does, the paper runs the risk of neglecting those of us who don’t wish to surrender to Mr. Zuckerberg whatever vestiges of privacy we may still possess.
Also, and this in reference to the Niles article, please don’t overuse the phrase “rust belt.” True, the words have a well-known meaning and some basis in fact. But they have an unnecessarily negative connotation, and are perhaps a bit condescending, especially from a New York City publication. How about “industrial Midwest” or simply “Midwest.” Even “flyover country” sounds better than “rust belt.”
It appears that following the election and its unexpected outcome, the Times has made a conscious decision to expand its coverage of the previously forgotten territory west of the Hudson and east of the Sierra Nevadas. As a former New Yorker and longtime denizen of Indiana, I think this is a good thing.
Two observations:
First, I hope the Times doesn’t become overly reliant on Facebook. If it does, the paper runs the risk of neglecting those of us who don’t wish to surrender to Mr. Zuckerberg whatever vestiges of privacy we may still possess.
Also, and this in reference to the Niles article, please don’t overuse the phrase “rust belt.” True, the words have a well-known meaning and some basis in fact. But they have an unnecessarily negative connotation, and are perhaps a bit condescending, especially from a New York City publication. How about “industrial Midwest” or simply “Midwest.” Even “flyover country” sounds better than “rust belt.”
10
Facebook might not be the best place to look for rational opinions.
21
Facebook is full of misinformation and have you heard of the dangerous virus call Bookface? Facebook told me about it. There were nine people using my computer (according to the Facebook Help Center) including people from Nigeria, London but most from Pennsylvania. Be careful!!!
1
You know misogyny is alive and well in our society when, days before a presidential election, the head of the FBI is allowed to make statements about an investigation regarding a female candidate while the investigations swarming around the male candidate are swept under the rug. This happened as our minority president looked the other way. Ladies, we have SOOOOO far to go.
59
The FBI was doing its job, period.
Don't want the FBI investigating your candidate? Don't nominate a grifter- a user of people - with three decades of shady deals and every slick trick possible without getting herself indicted.
The subtitle of Hillary Clinton's lifelong career history would have to be, ''The Suckers Never Did Catch Me!''
Don't want the FBI investigating your candidate? Don't nominate a grifter- a user of people - with three decades of shady deals and every slick trick possible without getting herself indicted.
The subtitle of Hillary Clinton's lifelong career history would have to be, ''The Suckers Never Did Catch Me!''
5
L'Osservatore:
Announcing to the public about the existence of an ongoing investigation into a Presidential candidate weeks before an election is not part of the FBI's job description. In fact, such actions are specifically prohibited by the Justice Department.
Announcing to the public about the existence of an ongoing investigation into a Presidential candidate weeks before an election is not part of the FBI's job description. In fact, such actions are specifically prohibited by the Justice Department.
31
The FBI was doing half of its job. While it had closed its investigation of Hillary, and while it has a longstanding policy not to talk about investigations close to elections, it violated that policy to announce that the investigation into Hillary's email might be reopened which was a red herring, as the investigation was not reopened. At the very same time, the FBI had a serious investigation into Trump's connections with Russia, which certainly would be germane to voters. But which Comey never mentioned. The FBI's partisan double standard is criminal.
19
Why were they so worried about how they would be looked at by others unless deep down they knew there was something wrong with what they were doing?
There's been a lot of blaming the press for not forecasting the election correctly. How many people did not give e a truthful answer when asked who they were thinking of voting for because they were ashamed?
There's been a lot of blaming the press for not forecasting the election correctly. How many people did not give e a truthful answer when asked who they were thinking of voting for because they were ashamed?
46
That's a good question. I voted against Trump, but I know a few women who did vote for him. Not one of them is a racist, a xenophobe, uneducated or any of the other assumptions that have been made about Trump supporters.
I spoke with one of the women after she very quietly "came out" to me about her choice. She didn't want to face the mindless condemnation of our community. She doesn't like Trump but she thought he was the lesser of two very bad choices.
I spoke with one of the women after she very quietly "came out" to me about her choice. She didn't want to face the mindless condemnation of our community. She doesn't like Trump but she thought he was the lesser of two very bad choices.
2
First of all: she thought wrong. Trump is going to make evil great rather than being the lesser of two of them.
Second of all: I don't necessarily believe you voted against Trump ....
Your female friends are racist, xenophobic and misogynist. I have not heard people say voting for Trump precludes being educated. I heard them say and I agree that it shows a lack of discernment, poor critical thinking skills, a lack of compassion, racism, xenophobia and misogyny. To quote a sign I saw, "They chose Trump because racism is not a deal breaker." A racist will tolerate it in others.
I believe they quietly prefer men to be in power.
Second of all: I don't necessarily believe you voted against Trump ....
Your female friends are racist, xenophobic and misogynist. I have not heard people say voting for Trump precludes being educated. I heard them say and I agree that it shows a lack of discernment, poor critical thinking skills, a lack of compassion, racism, xenophobia and misogyny. To quote a sign I saw, "They chose Trump because racism is not a deal breaker." A racist will tolerate it in others.
I believe they quietly prefer men to be in power.
2
Thank you for your humble admission that we conservative women are not able to be reduced to sterotypes.
7
could be because you are the very definition of a sterotype
16
These American voters are the best and the brightest of parents, teachers, employers, and builders of communities. Only the angry, hollow, and brittle trainees for a progressive collectivism would dare consider them any sort of a stereotype.
Between these women and the genius-philosophers showing up cut- &-pasting from the hate blogs, we need these women more.
Between these women and the genius-philosophers showing up cut- &-pasting from the hate blogs, we need these women more.
1
Surely can't reduce something that stupid to stereotypes, that would be an insult to stereotypes.
4
Very sad, pathetic commentary on the state of some women's thinking in some areas of the country today. It would be interesting to find out more about WHY specifically these women Trump voters would vote against their own interests for an unqualified misogynist instead of a superllatively qualified woman.
36
Perhaps the week after the female elites of the progressive movement completely embarrassed themselves and their country is NOT the time to do the standard progressive-hate-bomb-on-Trump-supporters?
Go back and check in with your bloggers for further instructions.
Go back and check in with your bloggers for further instructions.
4
In what sense do you describe the peaceful activism of millions of women an embarrassment? Trump has already begun his assault on women's rights and internationally the embarrassment lies in electing someone who clearly has no interest in the health or wellbeing of half of the population due to their gender.
4
you spelled "made the women of the world proud" wrong.
1
I don't see how anyone but a 1%-er, a total racist, or a dupe could have voted for Trump. I just don't. I've heard the rationalizations, and they don't make sense.
57
The fox so-called news, hate radio and hate social media don't make sense, Anne. It's all national enquirer type propaganda of the Top 1% Global Financial Elite Robber Barons. If only those who have been hypnotized with LIES-hate-anger-fear-war propaganda would wake up now. It would literally stop another destructive WWIII that will come if WE do not stop it.
That is no lie and a very real fear to ACT AGAINST NOW.
That is no lie and a very real fear to ACT AGAINST NOW.
12
I concur. Most say it was not racist, but I don't believe it. Anyone who supported Trump or either die-hard Repblicans or Racists. That's it.
23
The electoral minority simply doesn't understand the electoral majority? When were you told to call anyone with a differing opinion the worst of names? School? Cf. ''sore loser.''
4
So what are the conclusions reached from the interviews as to why did these women vote for Mr. Trump?
6
Hi Marjory - check out the original article - "You have to look for the Good". You should be able to click on it on this same page. They go into some detail.
Only one question, how are you liking him now?
27
It is difficult to understand why you need such a detailed study ti understand a 53% vote. They obviously liked him better than the alternative.
4
White white white. It was a telling article and well done. It got me out of my big town bubble. How about their bubble? Seems they are going to stay in it if the center holds and that feels kind of dubious to me. My take is that race and class matter, dire poverty and inequality exist and these women couldn't or wouldn't see it.
20
So I am waiting on the counterpoint article that seeks to talk with HRC female supporters and delves into the reasons that they would vote for such an ethically conflicted candidate who's political machine rigged an election against Bernie and then tried to do the same against Trump, but failed after Podesta's emails and CNN's tactics were exposed.
The approach from Chira reinforces the bias that I read throughout the NYTs. It starts from a disbelief and lack of understanding on how someone could vote for Trump and against Clinton. But why, isn't the same test applied to the Clinton review? Certainly, they are both ethically challenged candidates with a checkered past on the treatment of females when it seemed to benefit them.
Maybe that's too much introspection from this publication.
The approach from Chira reinforces the bias that I read throughout the NYTs. It starts from a disbelief and lack of understanding on how someone could vote for Trump and against Clinton. But why, isn't the same test applied to the Clinton review? Certainly, they are both ethically challenged candidates with a checkered past on the treatment of females when it seemed to benefit them.
Maybe that's too much introspection from this publication.
8
Climate change, FG. My kids and grandkids futures' are at grave risk and I care about them more than my tax cut. I care about those already dying and being affected in other countries. I guess it is my christian upbringing; I care about others more than money and instant gratification. I am wowed and shocked by those that don't, especially the so-called 'christians.' Even the Pope is stunned.
7
My female friends and acquaintances, many who were single and fought their way up the corporate ladder in the 80s but are now married, "would vote for a woman but not THAT woman". They all lead very comfortable lives and are scared to death of change. They don't want to rock their little raft they think is a lifeboat.
Two things decided this election - Sexism and the Hate-Anger-Fear-LIES propaganda leveled at the Most Qualified Candidate - Ms. Hillary Rodham Clinton. A link to how HATE WON is below. It behooves everyone to read it and see how sinister hate campaigns, engineered for a teeny-tiny few can cause us to believe lies and act in our own worst behalf.
Supposed pro-life women fill me with rage. No one is forcing them to use contraceptives or have abortions and they have NO RIGHT to tell other women what they can do with their own bodies and lives.
The ONLY solution is for Women and The Men Who Love Them to DEMAND PASSAGE OF THE EQUAL RIGHTS AMENDMENT TO OUR CONSTITUTION NOW to prevent any laws being pass that discriminate based on gender. OUR Constitution says "all men are created equal". Every single human being came from exactly the same place in exactly the same way. We all have the same creator-given rights. Just exactly who is it that thinks they can control over one-half the population of America and the world - WOMEN?
http://www.politico.com/magazine/story/2017/01/tabloid-newspapers-trump-...
Two things decided this election - Sexism and the Hate-Anger-Fear-LIES propaganda leveled at the Most Qualified Candidate - Ms. Hillary Rodham Clinton. A link to how HATE WON is below. It behooves everyone to read it and see how sinister hate campaigns, engineered for a teeny-tiny few can cause us to believe lies and act in our own worst behalf.
Supposed pro-life women fill me with rage. No one is forcing them to use contraceptives or have abortions and they have NO RIGHT to tell other women what they can do with their own bodies and lives.
The ONLY solution is for Women and The Men Who Love Them to DEMAND PASSAGE OF THE EQUAL RIGHTS AMENDMENT TO OUR CONSTITUTION NOW to prevent any laws being pass that discriminate based on gender. OUR Constitution says "all men are created equal". Every single human being came from exactly the same place in exactly the same way. We all have the same creator-given rights. Just exactly who is it that thinks they can control over one-half the population of America and the world - WOMEN?
http://www.politico.com/magazine/story/2017/01/tabloid-newspapers-trump-...
52
I am really trying to understand what world you live in. In my world people who knowingly mishandle classified government data lose their jobs and even go to jail. They are not qualified to run for President. In my world a woman who won't stand up to her husband when he sexually harasses women is not qualified to speak as a voice for abused woman. In my world a Secretary of State who stands by and does nothing when US soil is under attack then lies about it for political gain is not qualified to be President. Trump may not have been the best choice but he was the best choice on the ballot in November.
6
You must live in the fox so-called news, hate radio/social media universe, Lowell. The alternate reality of The Robber Barons.
13
Some of my friends, female and male, didn't vote for anyone for President. Those are the people I do not understand. They're all well educated and I thought they were rational. They were just blinded by the false hate-anger-fear campaign. Boggles the mind.
10