Why People Support or Disapprove of Joe Biden and Donald Trump

The 2020 US presidential election saw a prominent divide in public opinion concerning two key figures: Joe Biden and Donald Trump. Many found Joe Biden trustworthy, while others saw Donald Trump as unpredictable and dishonest. To understand the reasons behind these preferences, let's delve into the characteristics and leadership styles that influenced people's support or disapproval.

Joe Biden: A Trusted and Decent Leader

Joe Biden, born on November 20, 1942, is an experienced and well-educated individual. He has a law degree, which he leveraged to serve his community by working with children with special needs and later as a federal prosecutor. In the realm of politics, Biden has established a strong track record, having served for six terms as a US Senator and two terms as the Vice President under Barack Obama.

Biden’s reputation is often built on his intelligence, hardworking nature, and decent character. He has been known to understand the intricacies of government and has a genuine passion for public service. The man is widely recognized for his empathy and for genuinely caring about the needs of his constituents. His balanced approach to policymaking and his ability to empathize with others are key factors in explains why many voters trust him.

Donald Trump: A Disputed Figure

On the other hand, Donald Trump, born on June 14, 1946, has a distinctive background. He is a self-made billionaire with a history in real estate, television, and authorship. Trump's public persona has often been centered on his controversial statements and actions, including his contentious approach to leadership, his questionable personal conduct, and his often misleading statements.

Throughout his career, Trump has exhibited a pattern of unreliability and dishonesty. His track record of lying and manipulating public opinion can be traced back to his reality TV show, The Apprentice, as well as his various business ventures. These actions have led to a high level of distrust among many Americans.

Reasons Behind Their Popularity

Support for Joe Biden and Donald Trump can be attributed to a variety of reasons, which can broadly be categorized into personal qualities, leadership style, and policy directions.

(1) Personal Qualities

Joe Biden: Reputation for being trustworthy, intelligent, and hard-working. His empathy and genuine concern for people make him appealing to many voters. Donald Trump: Unpredictability, dishonesty, and the inability to be trusted. His history of making controversial and often unverified statements has caused many to disapprove of him.

(2) Leadership Style

Joe Biden: Biden’s approach is characterized by a calm, measured, and inclusive style. He is often seen as a unifier and has a solid record of bipartisan achievements. Donald Trump: Trump is often associated with a more confrontational and erratic leadership style, often referred to as a “full-throttle approach.”

(3) Policy Direction

Joe Biden: Biden's policies are generally rooted in a centrist, bipartisan approach, emphasizing unity, healthcare, and economic stability. Donald Trump: Trump's policies have been more polarizing, often centered around deregulation, tax cuts, and a more aggressive stance on national security.

Cultural and Social Factors

Another important factor influencing public opinion is the cultural and social context at the time of the election. The rise of social media has played a significant role in shaping these opinions, with news and commentary often amplified through viral trends and echo chambers. Additionally, historical events such as the 2008 financial crisis and the 2020 pandemic have had lasting impacts on voter behavior, contributing to a more divided electorate.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while Joe Biden and Donald Trump appeal to different segments of the electorate, their support or disapproval can largely be attributed to personal qualities, leadership styles, and policy directions. It is increasingly clear that the choices made by voters during this election will have profound implications for the future of the United States and the world at large.