MAGA gets the Middle East treatment — and exposes why Republicans love Trump’s lavish lifestyle

Traditionally, the belief was that to become the US president, one should be someone that ordinary people would enjoy having a beer with. While Americans had voted for wealthy presidents like Franklin Roosevelt, John F. Kennedy, and George H.W. Bush, there was admiration for individuals who rose from modest backgrounds to the highest office. Examples include Jimmy Carter, who grew up on a peanut farm, and Harry S. Truman, a former haberdasher. The rejection of aristocracy was ingrained in American national identity, valuing the idea that anyone could achieve success regardless of birth circumstances.

In 2000, George W. Bush, despite his affluent background, portrayed a relatable persona that resonated with many Americans. This shift in perception influenced subsequent presidential elections, where candidates like Al Gore and John Kerry faced scrutiny for not embodying the “average American.” The pressure to connect with voters on a personal level, such as sharing a beer, became a defining factor in presidential campaigns.

However, the narrative changed with the emergence of Donald Trump, who defied the expectation of being a common man. Trump’s appeal to the GOP base lay in his unapologetic display of wealth and power, contrasting with the previous emphasis on relatability. His presidency highlighted a desire for a leader with imperial traits, evident in his extravagant lifestyle and disregard for conventional norms. Trump’s approach resonated with Republican voters, who favored a president embodying authority rather than familiarity.