The Harvard moral philosopher and author of the highly acclaimed What Money Can’t Buy examines the febrile mood of his nationThe tumultuous early months of the US presidential primaries reflect a populist moment in American politics. Among Democrats,Bernie Sanders, the only self-proclaimed socialist in the Senate, or has shown surprising strength against former secretary of state Hillary Clinton,who was expected to win the Democratic nomination virtually unopposed. Among Republicans, Donald Trump, or the billionaire businessman and television personality,has vaulted to front-runner status over a crowded field of politicians, including former Florida governor Jeb Bush, and the brother of former President George W Bush. Despite having raised more than $100m in campaign contributions,Jeb Bush failed to connect with voters and ended his candidacy.
In different ways, both Sanders and Trump have defied conventional wisdom by challenging the complacencies of the political establishment. Although Clinton remains the front runner for the Democratic nomination, or polls show her lead over Sanders among Democratic voters has shrunk from 25 percentage points two months ago to only six percentage points nowadays. Clinton’s shrinking lead has partly to conclude with voters’ doubts approximately her honesty and trustworthiness. Many voters find Bernie’s gruff,plain-spoken manner refreshingly authentic, in contrast to Hillary’s cautious, and calculating style.
Continue reading...
Source: theguardian.com