The article below reads more like a press release from NBC News than an actual news story, but it does give the gist of what Hillyard is doing abstractly, rather than giving the complete picture. And that picture is terrifying.
When you hear grown adults saying things like: "Russia is not our enemy," "Putin just wants back what was his," "[Putin] invaded Ukraine, killing thousands of people...That's fine with me," "Zelensky is the problem" and so on it should give one pause about the coming election because this is just crazy talk and those people vote.
Source: BNN Breaking News
NBC News reporter Vaughn Hillyard embarked on a revealing journey across the United States to understand the attitudes of former President Donald Trump's supporters towards democracy and autocracy. His conversations, shared with MSNBC host Nicolle Wallace, uncover a surprising tolerance for autocratic views. Hillyard's findings highlight an alarming trend: a growing indifference to democratic principles and an alarming acceptance of authoritarian ideologies.
Throughout his travels, Hillyard engaged with individuals who openly expressed indifference to the casualties resulting from Ukraine's invasion by Russia, a stark contrast to attitudes encountered just eight years prior. These interactions signal a shift towards a more polarized and resentful political landscape, where civil discourse appears increasingly challenging. The reporter's observations are backed by comments from Sherrilyn Ifill of Howard University, who warns of the contagious nature of autocracy, a sentiment that resonated strongly with MSNBC host Nicolle Wallace.
Hillyard's experiences underscore the significant impact of media in shaping public opinion, particularly among Trump's supporters. The spread of conspiracy theories and misinformation has contributed to a growing disconnect, fueling anger and resentment. Hillyard emphasizes the crucial role of personal conversations in addressing these issues, urging individuals to engage with friends, family, and community members to foster understanding and bridge divides.
The findings from Hillyard's journey raise important questions about the future of democracy in the United States. The apparent shift towards autocratic sympathies among some segments of the population highlights the need for vigilant efforts to promote democratic values and counter misinformation. As the country grapples with these challenges, the importance of open and respectful dialogue has never been more critical.
And that's what the next election will be about, the future of democracy in the United States.
And another one. Nicolle's expression at the end.
