Have you ever wondered why some of your friends support Donald Trump? It’s a question that often leads to vague or emotional responses without much factual backing. While it’s clear that not everyone is on board with “Trumpism,” there has been a surprising openness among Black voters, especially Black men, towards supporting Trump in recent years.
At a 2020 NBC Town Hall, Trump boldly claimed, “I have done more for the African American community than any president with the exception of Abraham Lincoln.” While this is a significant statement, Trump often fails to provide proper context. Let’s delve into some of the initiatives he has taken credit for or that are said to have benefited Black communities, though not exclusively.
The First Step Act – A Real Win?
Trump signed the First Step Act in December 2018, aiming to reform the criminal justice system by making significant changes to the harsh “tough on crime” policies. This legislation led to the early release of more than 3,000 people from federal prison due to “good time credits” for good behavior.
However, it’s essential to note that the First Step Act didn’t originate solely from Trump. It was a product of years of collaborative effort in Congress to reduce the federal prison population without compromising public safety. While Trump signed the bill into law, credit must be shared among the individuals who worked on it for years.
Trump and HBCUs – Did He Save Them?
Another claim made by Trump is that he “saved” historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs). However, what he signed was a 10-year renewal of funding that was already in place. Federal funding for HBCUs had been ongoing before Trump’s presidency, with bipartisan congressional support ensuring its continuation.
Trump’s Favorite Talking Point: Black Unemployment
Trump often highlights the low unemployment rates for Black Americans during his tenure, with a record low of 5.9 percent in May 2018. However, this downward trend actually began under President Obama. Despite the low unemployment rates, disparities persisted, especially in higher-paying jobs, even for Black workers with college degrees. The COVID-19 pandemic further exacerbated these inequities.
The Judges Trump Appointed: What Does That Mean for Us?
While Trump may not be remembered for the policies he touted, his judicial appointments could have a lasting impact. He appointed a significant number of federal judges, none of whom are Black, raising concerns about their decisions on crucial issues like policing, sentencing, voting rights, healthcare, and racial equity. These appointments will shape the future for generations to come.
So, What’s the Polling Say?
Trump garnered 8% of the Black vote in 2016, the highest for a Republican since 2000. By 2020, his support among Black voters increased to 12%. While this percentage may seem small, it reflects a growing openness among some Black voters towards Trump, despite varying reasons that aren’t always backed by facts.
If you’re a Black Trump supporter, we’d love to hear your perspective on why you support him. Share your thoughts and engage in a meaningful conversation to understand different viewpoints.