Cover image of The Case for Trump
The Case for Trump
Victor Davis Hanson
Quick Take
This New York Times bestselling Trump biography from a major American intellectual explains how a renegade businessman became one of the most successful -- and necessary -- presidents of all time.In The Case for Trump, award-winning historian and political commentator Victor Davis Hanson explains how a celebrity businessman with no political or military experience triumphed over sixteen well-qualified Republican rivals, a Democrat with a quarter-billion-dollar war chest, and a hostile media and Washington establishment to become president of the United States -- and an extremely successful president.Trump alone saw a political opportunity in defending the working people of America's interior whom the coastal elite of both parties had come to scorn, Hanson argues. And Trump alone had the instincts and energy to pursue this opening to victory, dismantle a corrupt old order, and bring long-overdue policy changes at home and abroad. We could not survive a series of presidencies as volatile as Trump's. But after decades of drift, America needs the outsider Trump to do what normal politicians would not and could not do.
Reader's Review

Book Review Summary: The Case for Trump

Introduction

In this book, "The Case for Trump," historian and political commentator Victor Davis Hanson offers a comprehensive analysis of how a businessman with no political experience became one of the most successful and controversial presidents in American history. Hanson argues that Trump's rise to power was driven by his ability to connect with the working people of America's interior, who had been neglected by both major political parties. He also contends that Trump's policies and actions have been necessary to address the challenges facing the country, including immigration, trade, and national security.

About Victor Davis Hanson

Victor Davis Hanson is a renowned historian and political commentator who has written extensively on American history, politics, and culture. He holds a Ph.D. in Classics from Stanford University and has taught at several prestigious institutions, including the University of California, Santa Cruz, and the American School of Classical Studies. Hanson is known for his insightful analysis of current events and his ability to draw connections between past historical events and contemporary politics.

Analysis of Views

  1. Trump's ability to connect with the working class: Many readers praise Hanson's ability to explain how Trump was able to connect with the working people of America's interior, who had felt neglected by both major political parties. They appreciate how Hanson highlights the economic and cultural factors that contributed to Trump's success in winning over these voters.
  2. The need for change: Readers also agree with Hanson's argument that America needed a president like Trump to bring about necessary changes in policy and governance. They believe that Trump's unconventional approach and willingness to challenge the status quo have been necessary to address the challenges facing the country.
  3. The media's role in shaping public opinion: Some readers criticize the media's coverage of Trump and argue that it has been biased and unfair. They appreciate Hanson's analysis of how the media has portrayed Trump and how it has influenced public opinion. They believe that Hanson provides a more balanced perspective on Trump's policies and actions.
  4. The role of identity politics: Readers discuss how identity politics has played a significant role in shaping public opinion and political discourse in recent years. They agree with Hanson's argument that identity politics has contributed to division and polarization in American society. They appreciate how Hanson highlights the dangers of identity politics and the need for a more inclusive and unifying approach.
  5. The impact of social media: Readers also discuss the impact of social media on politics and public opinion. They appreciate Hanson's analysis of how social media platforms have amplified polarization and created echo chambers that reinforce existing beliefs. They believe that Hanson provides a nuanced understanding of how social media has influenced political discourse.

Reasons for Recommendation

  1. Insightful analysis: Readers recommend this book for its insightful analysis of Trump's rise to power and his policies as president. They appreciate Hanson's ability to provide a balanced perspective on Trump's actions and policies, which they believe is missing in much of the media coverage.
  2. Connection with working class: Readers also recommend this book for its ability to connect with the working class voters who supported Trump. They appreciate how Hanson highlights the economic and cultural factors that contributed to Trump's success and provides a nuanced understanding of why these voters felt neglected by the political establishment.
  3. Necessity for change: Readers recommend this book for its argument that America needed a president like Trump to bring about necessary changes in policy and governance. They believe that Hanson provides a compelling case for why Trump's unconventional approach was necessary to address the challenges facing the country.
  4. Balanced perspective: Finally, readers recommend this book for its balanced perspective on Trump's policies and actions. They appreciate how Hanson provides a more nuanced understanding of Trump's policies than what is often presented in the media, which they believe is essential for understanding complex political issues.

Reasons for Not Recommendation

  1. Bias towards Trump: Some readers criticize the book for its bias towards Trump and its lack of critical analysis of his actions and policies. They argue that Hanson presents a one-sided view of Trump's presidency and fails to acknowledge the negative consequences of some of his actions.
  2. Lack of balance: Others criticize the book for its lack of balance in presenting both sides of political issues. They argue that Hanson presents a one-sided view of political debates and fails to acknowledge alternative perspectives on policy issues.
  3. Incomplete analysis: Some readers also criticize the book for its incomplete analysis of certain issues, such as immigration policy. They argue that Hanson presents a limited view of immigration policy and fails to acknowledge the complexities involved in addressing this issue.
  4. Overemphasis on identity politics: Finally, some readers criticize the book for its overemphasis on identity politics as a driving force behind political discourse. They argue that Hanson fails to acknowledge other factors that contribute to political polarization, such as economic inequality and social justice issues.