Here’s what voters need to know.
Recent allegations regarding former President Donald Trump’s comments about wanting “the kind of generals that Hitler had” are stirring controversy, but political analysts suggest they may not significantly sway Jewish voters in the upcoming election. One expert noted that such inflammatory remarks from Trump are becoming expected in today’s political landscape.
In a piece by The Atlantic’s Jeffrey Goldberg, it was claimed that Trump expressed a desire for generals with loyalty akin to that of Hitler’s. The assertion comes from unnamed sources and was echoed by John Kelly, who served as Trump’s White House chief of staff. Kelly recounted that Trump showed admiration for the loyalty of Hitler’s generals.
However, Trump’s campaign quickly denied these allegations. Alex Pfeiffer, a senior advisor, labeled the claims as false, asserting that Trump never made such comments. This reflects a broader pattern where Trump’s statements, often provocative, are dismissed by his supporters as part of his unconventional style.
Polling data reveals that a significant number of Jewish voters may still lean toward Vice President Kamala Harris, with a survey indicating 60% support for her compared to only 30% for Trump. In response, Trump has highlighted his strong support for Israel, warning that under a Democratic administration, the country could face dire threats.
Analysts argue that Trump’s contentious remarks, whether true or not, may not shake the loyalty of his base. Thomas Gift from University College London noted that Trump’s past comments have diminished their shock value. Many supporters either disbelieve negative reports or find nothing particularly objectionable about them.
Mark Shanahan, an expert on American politics, emphasized that voters have become accustomed to Trump’s candid style. As the campaign progresses, he suggested, Americans will encounter a barrage of controversial statements from both sides, but Trump’s history indicates that few of these will lead to lasting damage.
As Trump continues to fight for the presidency, polling models indicate a close race, with recent analyses giving him a slight edge. Despite the swirling controversies, it seems that many voters remain firmly entrenched in their opinions, illustrating the polarized nature of today’s political environment.
