People in rural areas are more inclined to support Trump for various reasons.

Rural residents more inclined to support Trump in the election

In the 2020 presidential election, Trump's popularity stretched to rural regions across the USA. However, what makes him particularly popular in these areas? Studies reveal that conservative values alone don't explain this phenomenon.

Frederick County in Maryland is a prime example. Here, where homes are spread apart in fields and forests, Trump won nearly every voting district. Meanwhile, Biden emerged victorious in more urban areas, winning the county and the state of Maryland. This division between towns and countryside is becoming increasingly significant in this November's election. Frederick County, situated on the outskirts of the Washington metropolitan area, serves as a political battleground.

"Washington?" Chris scoffs, using "cesspool" to describe the US capital. The middle-aged man, known for his waiting tables at a highway diner, resides in the rural region of Frederick County. He openly shares his conservative opinions, expressing concerns about immigration and cultural policy issues, along with high costs at the grocery store and gas station. "You can guess who I'm voting for," he remarks. Recent research shows that support for Trump doesn't simply stem from conservative values on topics such as religion, abortion, and gun rights.

Rural Resentment Explained: Trump Taps into Feelings of Inequality

In political science, a hot discussion revolves around the concept of "rural resentment." White people, particularly in rural areas, feel neglected, both economically and culturally. Trump exploits these feelings by giving his supporters the impression of being heard, even though no real solutions are offered. To this electorate, which feels ignored by politics and the media, he creates a resonance surface through simplified explanations - especially via the demonization of immigrants. For example, the conspiracy theory claiming Biden's Democrats plan to replace traditional Americans with Latin Americans has been reinforced lately.

Frederick County's transformation is emblematic of urbanization's political impact. In 2020, this was the first time a Democratic presidential candidate won Frederick County since 1964. The area has experienced significant changes in recent years, attracting well-educated individuals with medical research centers. Population growth from Latin American migration has been rapid, with roughly 80,000 individuals now living in Frederick, the county's administrative seat. However, this growth brings issues: housing shortages and increased costs. One debated issue is whether farmland should be converted into housing or used for a water-intensive data center. Rick Weldon used to serve as a Republican Maryland legislator but later turned against his party, now leading the Frederick County Chamber of Commerce.

Weldon embraces the changes occurring in his county, praising the art scene and the annual Pride Festival. However, could some people feel scared by these developments? "Absolutely," Weldon responds. He argues that a strong economy and diversity go hand-in-hand. He calls for increased dialogue and blames the media for exacerbating polarization. Weldon anticipates a tight race between Biden and Trump in November, as polls indicate. Despite a robust economy in his district, Weldon senses discontent among his community. "You can't blame Joe Biden for gas costing $4.50," he remarks. "Nor can you blame Trump for it costing $2.90," he continues, noting that citizens don't perceive such subtlety. A gallon of gas, which is just under four liters, is referenced here.

Sozan: Trump's Rhetoric Threatens Democracy

Weldon's observations mirror a national issue for Biden. Although the inflation rate has dropped and the labor market is robust, prices for household items remain high. Thus, when Biden highlights the economic situation, it feels out of touch to some people.

"I'm concerned about the times we live in," says Michael Sozan of the American Progress Action Fund, a left-wing advocacy group. The divide deepens, with many people disengaged from politics. "People don't have the same hope that their children and grandchildren will fare better than them," warns Sozan. In this context, Trump has gained traction rhetorically. This is detrimental to democracy, Sozan cautions. The American system is ill-suited to leaders like Trump. [end of paraphrase]

Along with specific improvements, Biden and the Democrats also require conveying the appropriate narrative. To address people's anger, they need to act as better storytellers. In this aspect, one individual currently stands out: Trump. Although he carried out actions during his tenure that led to disastrous economic consequences for small farmers, for instance, it was also Trump who kickstarted noteworthy reductions to the Postal Service, which is crucial for rural America. Despite this, Chris in the diner maintains that the Republican would be a better president, not only for himself but also for the residents in his village. Here, he mentions the existence of a bar, a gas station, and numerous armed citizens. Unfortunately, there is no letter carrier.