Conservative politicos share reactions to protest response following Trump win

Conservative political experts have pointed to President-elect Trump’s decisive victory on Tuesday as a key reason why anti-Trump protests have been less prominent compared to 2016. While there have been some protests across the country since Tuesday, they have not solely focused on Trump, and the turnout has not been as significant as the mass demonstrations seen in 2016 following Trump’s win over Hillary Clinton.

In cities like Seattle and Chicago, recent protests have centered more on issues such as the war in Gaza, with demonstrators criticizing both Democrats and Republicans. This shift in focus has led to a more muted response to Trump’s victory this time around.

Observers have taken note of the subdued nature of the current protests compared to four years ago. Daily Wire reporter Kassy Akiva remarked on the lack of major protests being planned, while political science professor Darel Paul noted the absence of demonstrations or collective mourning at Williams College.

Political strategist David Kochel highlighted the legitimacy of Trump’s win this time, as he is set to win the popular vote. This contrasts with the tension that arose in 2016 when Trump won the Electoral College but not the popular vote. The more decisive nature of Trump’s victory in 2020 has contributed to the calmer protest response.

However, experts like Mike Gonzalez from the Heritage Foundation caution that the protest landscape could change once Trump begins implementing policy changes. While the current response may be lighter than in 2016, there is a possibility of increased opposition as Trump’s presidency progresses.

Former special education teacher Aron Boxer, a moderate conservative, also acknowledges the potential for protests to intensify in the future. He points to inflammatory rhetoric from political figures like Adam Kinzinger, Letitia James, Gavin Newsom, and Kamala Harris as potentially inciting further opposition.

As the political landscape continues to evolve, it remains to be seen how protests against the incoming Trump administration will develop. The more subdued response thus far could give way to more widespread demonstrations as Trump’s policies take shape and political tensions rise. The key takeaway is that while the current protests may be quieter than in 2016, the potential for increased opposition remains on the horizon.