The phrase “Hated by the deep state, hated by Washington, hated by the media… loved by the American people!” encapsulates the highly polarized and often contentious legacy of former President Donald Trump. His presidency and political career were marked by fierce opposition from various power centers in Washington, D.C., including government bureaucrats, entrenched political elites, and mainstream media outlets. Despite the intense animosity directed at him from these powerful institutions, Trump has maintained a passionate and loyal following among a significant portion of the American electorate. This paradox of being both vilified by the establishment and adored by millions of Americans has been one of the defining characteristics of his political career.
To understand why Trump was so despised by what some refer to as the “deep state,” it’s important to look at his approach to governance. The term “deep state” generally refers to a perceived network of unelected government officials and bureaucrats who are thought to operate independently of elected leaders and exert influence over policy decisions. Trump, as a political outsider and self-styled disruptor, made it clear from the start of his campaign that he intended to challenge the established order in Washington. He ran on a platform of draining the swamp, a promise to rid the capital of what he saw as corruption and inefficiency.
His combative stance towards the Washington establishment didn’t end with his campaign rhetoric. During his time in office, Trump repeatedly clashed with career politicians and government officials. His unorthodox leadership style, which included bypassing traditional political channels and relying on his instincts and direct communication with the public via social media, further alienated many in Washington. Trump was often seen as a threat to the status quo, challenging both Democratic and Republican leaders who had long held power in the capital. His approach, which emphasized his “America First” agenda, led to significant policy changes, including renegotiating trade deals, imposing tariffs, and reducing regulations. These policies were often met with fierce resistance from the political establishment, which viewed them as reckless or counterproductive.
Trump’s relationship with the media was equally contentious. From the moment he declared his candidacy for president, he became a frequent target of mainstream media outlets, which often portrayed him as erratic, divisive, and unqualified for office. His use of social media, particularly Twitter, to directly communicate with the public and bypass the traditional media channels only exacerbated the situation. Trump’s critics in the media accused him of spreading misinformation, inflaming division, and undermining public trust in the press. The term “fake news,” which Trump popularized during his presidency, became emblematic of his adversarial relationship with the media.
Despite this antagonism, Trump’s relationship with the American people—particularly his supporters—remained remarkably strong. His message resonated with a large portion of the electorate, especially those who felt left behind by globalization, economic stagnation, and political elites. Many of his supporters saw him as a champion of their values, someone who was willing to take on the powerful institutions that had long ignored their needs. Trump’s unapologetic style, his rejection of political correctness, and his promises to restore American greatness struck a chord with millions of voters who felt that traditional politicians had failed them.
For these Americans, Trump’s victories on issues like tax cuts, deregulation, and strengthening the military were seen as tangible results of his leadership. His strong stance on immigration, his withdrawal from the Paris Climate Agreement, and his decision to move the U.S. Embassy to Jerusalem were viewed as bold actions that demonstrated his commitment to putting America first. His policies, many of which were aimed at revitalizing the economy and addressing concerns about illegal immigration, were widely supported by his base.
In addition to his policy positions, Trump’s outsider status and his willingness to challenge political norms endeared him to many who felt disconnected from the traditional political system. His promises to “drain the swamp” and his disdain for the elites resonated with voters who believed that Washington had become too entrenched in its own ways and was no longer serving the people. Trump’s success in mobilizing a large, dedicated base of supporters was evident in his political rallies, where thousands of people gathered to show their support and hear his message. This grassroots enthusiasm was a testament to his popularity among ordinary Americans who felt that he was speaking to their concerns and fighting for their interests.
However, Trump’s political career and his presidency were not without significant controversy. His polarizing rhetoric, his handling of the COVID-19 pandemic, his impeachment, and his role in the January 6th Capitol insurrection led to widespread criticism and, in many cases, calls for accountability. His critics argued that his leadership style was reckless, irresponsible, and divisive, contributing to the deepening of political and social divisions in the country. For many, his actions during the final months of his presidency, particularly his refusal to accept the results of the 2020 election, were seen as an attack on democracy itself.
Despite these controversies, Trump’s support among his base remained unwavering. Many of his followers continued to view him as the only leader who truly understood their struggles and was willing to fight for them. They believed that the attacks on him were politically motivated and that the media and the political establishment were unfairly targeting him to undermine his agenda. For them, Trump was a man who was unafraid to stand up to the powerful forces in Washington, and they appreciated his no-nonsense approach to politics.
In the aftermath of his presidency, the debate over Trump’s legacy continues to divide the country. Some view him as a transformative leader who challenged the establishment and made important strides on issues like immigration, trade, and the economy. Others see him as a dangerous demagogue whose divisive rhetoric and actions have left lasting damage on American democracy. The tension between these two views—the fervent admiration of his supporters and the deep disdain from his critics—speaks to the larger divisions within the country.
Regardless of where one stands on Trump’s legacy, it is clear that his impact on American politics is profound and enduring. Hated by the deep state, Washington, and the media, but loved by millions of Americans, Trump remains a figure who continues to shape the political landscape. Whether or not one agrees with his policies or his leadership style, there is no denying the force of his influence and the passion with which his supporters continue to stand behind him. In the years to come, the question of Trump’s place in American history will continue to be a topic of intense debate, but one thing remains certain: his connection with the American people has left an indelible mark on the nation’s political consciousness.
