http://www.washingtonexaminer.com/donald-trump-and-the-conservative-cult-of-celebrity/article/2568948Donald Trump and the conservative cult of celebrity
By Daniel Allott • 7/25/15 12:01 AM
Donald Trump is leading in the polls, drawing the largest crowds and dominating the headlines. What makes him such an attractive candidate?
Part of it is his wealth and penchant for saying things other conservatives believe but won't say. But the most important ingredient is his celebrity.
The Donald is benefiting from the fact that some conservatives are desperate to have their worldview validated by celebrities. Conservatives often insist they are above caring about the culture of celebrity. They criticize pop culture and accuse Democrats of being in thrall to Hollywood. But conservatives are just as prone to getting starstruck.
And many will embrace just about any celebrity who seems to be the least bit conservative. The results can be cringe-inducing.
continued
