Is Donald Trump Like Barry Goldwater?

No, the comparison between Donald Trump and Barry Goldwater is far from accurate. The assertion that Trump is simply an extended version of Goldwater is both misleading and inaccurate.

The Complete Opposite

The recent claims suggesting that Donald Trump aligns with Barry Goldwater's political ideology are false. These claims are based on a misconception or a complete misunderstanding of both figures, as Trump and Goldwater represent opposing ends of the political spectrum when it comes to certain key issues.

The Gospel According to Ignorance

Some individuals, who appear to be operating under a delusion, might believe that praying will somehow protect them from their problems. While this notion may resonate with a certain segment of the population, it does not reflect rational discourse in politics. Even figures such as Ronald Reagan, who were sometimes criticized for pandering to_BASELINE_ COMMUNITY LDOCTRINEBASELINE_fANS, did not engage in the level of disingenuous political maneuvering that is characteristic of Trump. Reagan may have aligned with the crowd at times, but Goldwater, at least in his public statements and principles, was far more principled and harder working.

Contrasting Trump and Goldwater

Trump and Goldwater are vastly different in their approaches and stances on a wide range of issues. While there might be some superficial similarities, a closer examination reveals fundamental differences in their core beliefs and actions.

Trumponomics: The Simpleminded Calculus

Donald Trump is not merely a complex political figure but a simple one in terms of his decision-making process. He is more concerned with image and bluff than with substance. His lack of education and ethical scruples are evident. Trump frequently claims that opposing him is mere "fake news," a statement devoid of any integrity or accountability. The Trumpian method is clear: if a certain stance can gain him support, he will adopt it, regardless of the truth or the consequences. This is in stark contrast to Barry Goldwater, who, despite potential disagreement, was generally hardworking and honest.

Standards and Stances: Goldwater vs. Trump

Goldwater's positions were often in line with his foundational beliefs, even when those beliefs were not popular among his constituency. For instance, Goldwater supported the idea of gays serving in the military, a stance born out of libertarian principles, which eschewed government intervention in personal matters. On the other hand, Trump opposed such a policy, demonstrating a clear disregard for individual rights in favor of party line politics.

Action versus Preaching: A 1999 Example

A historical example further illustrates the contrast between the two. In 1999, Trump wrote a letter advocating for action on climate change, a stance that aligns with environmental concerns. However, his view has since changed, positioning him as a climate change denier. This shift demonstrates a clear preference for convenience over principle. Trump was able to gain support with different views and adjusted his position accordingly, whereas Goldwater would likely have remained steadfast in his beliefs, regardless of public opinion.

Goldwater: The True Conservative

Goldwater was a pre-Fox News conservative, a figure who stood firm in his principles, uninfluenced by modern media and ideological indoctrination. Comparing Trump to Goldwater is like comparing a bronco to a fluffy kitten. The two have entirely different temperaments and characteristics. Goldwater was known for his intellectual integrity and principled stance, while Trump is known for his opportunism and superficiality.

Conclusion: A Much Needed Realism

In the end, the comparison between Donald Trump and Barry Goldwater is one of the most inaccurate in modern political discourse. While both figures represent conservative-leaning ideologies, the differences in their stances, principles, and approach to politics are profound. Trump's shiftiness and lack of principled stances make him fundamentally different from Goldwater. Understanding this difference is crucial for any rational analysis of American politics.