Uncovered Truth: Trump Phenomenon Not Manufactured by the Press

In the political landscape of the United States, one name has been dominating the headlines - Donald Trump. The real estate mogul and reality TV star has been leading the Republican Party's nomination race, despite never holding elective office.

Trump's campaign, characterised by his vocal opposition to free trade agreements, a promise to reduce U.S. involvement overseas, and a denunciation of politicians as lackeys, has resonated with millions of Americans. His controversial proposals, such as a ban on all foreign Muslims entering the country after the San Bernardino terror attack, and his extreme stance on illegal immigration, including the deportation of 11 million undocumented migrants and the construction of a border wall, have been met with both controversy and support.

The media's role in Trump's rise has been a topic of debate. Some argue that the media created Trump, while others contend that the media is merely a messenger, not the message. The latter argument is supported by the fact that the "mainstream" media are unpopular among the Republican base, and the media's unpopularity does not seem to have hindered Trump's success.

However, it is important to note that news organisations operate in a free market environment, with editors and news directors striving to beat the competition. Trump's unusual behaviour, such as late-night Twitter rants and fire-breathing rallies, has attracted significant media attention, contributing to his high profile.

Fox News, a notable exception, has been tougher on Trump than other outlets, reflecting the diversity of opinions within the media. This diversity in coverage is crucial, as it allows the public to form their own opinions based on a range of perspectives.

It is essential for commentators to understand why Trump is succeeding, rather than engaging in self-flattery about the media's power. The author of this article suggests that Trump's success should be attributed to the anxieties and prejudices he plays on, particularly among white voters unnerved by demographic change.

Trump's continued presence in the Republican Party is due, in part, to a substantial part of the base agreeing with his message. Audiences have decided they need and want to know about Trump, and news organisations have to cover the leading candidates, even if they are deemed dull.

Despite Trump's media-friendly antics and the high television ratings and website clicks he generates, blaming the media for his rise is seen as a way to ignore the voters who have made Trump the favourite for the GOP nomination. Understanding the reasons behind Trump's success requires a nuanced analysis, going beyond the headlines and the sensational stories that dominate the news cycle.