With President-elect Donald Trump set to take office, it is worth considering how his coalition has evolved. Trump’s source of power is populist in nature, with a base that is multi-racial and working-class. He has transformed the GOP into a new party, drawing in tens of thousands of people to stadiums and arenas and commanding a large social media following.
However, Trump’s first presidency was hamstrung due to a lack of elite champions to help administer the White House and advance his agenda. This time around, he has received support from a growing segment of the technology industry, with many leaders donating to his 2024 presidential campaign and backing his platform.
One of the most notable figures is billionaire Elon Musk, who has committed to the MAGA agenda. Hundreds of other tech leaders have followed suit, seeking to avoid potential restrictions on taxes, regulation, and antitrust laws that were part of the Democratic Party’s platform.
The tech industry is not just motivated by self-interest, but also by a genuine desire for a free and growth-oriented American economy. Some on the right, including Musk, are deeply opposed to “woke” politics and seek to shape the country’s economic and societal landscape.
This alliance between the public and the tech industry could have significant benefits for Trump, including access to key news platforms and influential figures in finance and technology. The partnership may also give Trump greater control over the bureaucratic structures within his administration.
However, there are potential risks, including disagreements over issues such as H-1B visas, which can lead to conflicts between the populist and tech bases. Overall, the success of Trump’s second presidency may depend on the success of this partnership between the two.