The Biden administration’s recent actions against Alphabet, aiming to force divestiture, align with widespread anti-big business sentiment among Republicans. This crackdown on major American institutions – technology, food, pharmaceuticals, finance, and higher education – reflects a growing anger that’s uniting seemingly opposing political factions.
Contemporary MAGA supporters and self-described progressives share common ground with early 20th-century agrarian populists like Tom Watson and Eugene V. Debs. Despite Trump’s divisive victory, a connection between political extremes is emerging. During Trump’s 2015 campaign planning, he considered appealing to national outrage by moving left of Bernie Sanders.
Senator Ron Johnson’s enthusiastic endorsement of Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s nomination as Secretary of Health and Human Services, despite Kennedy’s controversial views, wasn’t entirely unexpected. However, Governor Jared Polis’s similar support, citing shared anti-corporate views, was surprising. A Democratic Senator also voiced agreement with Kennedy’s criticisms of corporations. Similarly, Matt Gaetz, a controversial MAGA figure, received unexpected defense from a Democratic representative.
Tulsi Gabbard’s nomination as Director of National Intelligence, despite being labeled a Russian asset by some prominent figures, garnered support from Bernie Sanders, who highlighted her dedication to the country. Sanders also criticized Democrats for dismissing Joe Rogan, a popular Trump supporter.
The Biden administration’s antitrust policy, while viewed by some as an attack on American competitiveness, is also seen by others as fostering new opportunities. The potential forced divestiture of Google Chrome could impact Alphabet’s services. Both the Attorney General and the nominee for Chairman of the Federal Communications Commission have indicated a strong stance against tech giants.
FTC Chair Lina Khan’s antitrust enforcement faced resistance from some, prompting intervention from Vice President Harris. Interestingly, Senator J.D. Vance supports these moves, praising Lina Khan’s work and even collaborating with progressive colleagues on legislation to curb large mergers.
The deep roots of populist anger in American society stem from various sources: class resentment, fear of technological change, anxieties over demographic shifts, and a long-standing anti-intellectual tradition.
This populist anger, regardless of its origins, is a potent force, transcending traditional political divides and easily ignited by charismatic leaders or significant events.