America in Crisis

This book examines the far-reaching impact of charismatic leadership on voter behavior, media influence, and affective polarization. In this context, emotional reactions to opposing parties fuel societal division. Trump's political messaging consistently portrays former President Joe Biden as America's scapegoat, deepening partisan conflicts and shaping public perception. As President Donald Trump begins his second term, the U.S. is facing deep political division, economic uncertainty, and institutional distrust. His administration's sweeping policy shifts, including aggressive tariffs, corporate deregulation, and strict immigration measures, have triggered economic disruptions and global instability. Meanwhile, ideological and emotional polarization deepens, driven by personality politics and the rise of "strong leader" authoritarianism. This volume examines the American presidency, offering insights from the past and a prescient look at the potential ramifications of "Trump 2.0" on the domestic political landscape and the global stage. This book will appeal to scholars, policymakers, and anyone interested in the future of U.S. politics as it emphasizes the importance of understanding and addressing polarization to promote a more inclusive and effective political dialogue.