The Point of No Return

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This book explores the profound impact of Donald Trump's presidency on American politics, culture, and social order. Following the 2020 election and the events of January 6, the author, a New York Times columnist, raises concerns about whether the nation has reached a point of no return. He argues that Trump's election represents the most significant threat to the American political system since the Civil War. Through a compelling narrative, the author documents the damage inflicted during the Trump years, highlighting demographic shifts that enabled his rise. He delves into the racial and ethnic tensions, culture wars, and the rural/urban divide that have polarized the nation, as well as the economic disparities between red and blue states. The book compiles a series of the author's columns, framed by a new introduction and conclusion, revealing how we arrived at this precarious juncture. It chronicles the emergence of what he terms "the not-so-silent white majority" and illustrates how Trump exploited fears surrounding race and immigration. The author examines Trump's alternate reality, the disconnect between voting behavior and self-interest, and the Democrats' strategic responses. In light of the Capitol insurrection, he warns that American democracy faces significant challenges, driven by the forces that supported Trump's election and the "stop the steal" movement.