In my estimation, what Donald Trump has achieved is to tap into the deep vein of discontent that runs through America today, and which crosses class, and to some extent, political lines.
Every election year politicians seek our vote, promising action on vital matters. Except, when they win, they either do nothing at all (GOP) or else embark upon a radical reconstruction of America's government and social institutions (Democrats), neither of which we, the people voted for.
In particular, Donald Trump has struck a nerve on the issue of illegal immigration. He has done so not because he is a political genius with a well-thought plan to solve our border security and social service problems, but because he symbolizes the almost perfect disconnect between the American people and our Political Class; the people want the borders closed and immigration limited, while the leaders of both major parties and the special interests who fund them want the door left wide open.
If Trump has a workable plan to fix the problem, I have yet to hear of it. But Symbols don't require plans, they just need money, serious hair, a platform and a microphone.
I predict that Trump's appeal will in a short time, fade. He will fade because beyond his thin veneer of public support, Trump has demonstrated little in the way of useful ideas, principles, policy knowledge, or experience beyond building taxpayer-financed buildings and failing casinos. But like the current occupant of the office he seeks, The Donald certainly knows how to make himself the center of attention at all times.
