Feb 1, 2025
Racial Resentment & Political Manipulation

The impact of racial resentment and political manipulation in American democracy poses a significant threat to society for several reasons.
Firstly, racial resentment can deepen societal divides and create an environment of mistrust among different racial and ethnic groups. When political entities exploit these sentiments for their gain, it can lead to increased polarization, making collaboration and dialogue between communities difficult. This lack of cohesion can destabilize social structures and weaken the foundation of democratic values, such as equality and justice.
Secondly, political manipulation often involves spreading misinformation and scapegoating specific communities. By portraying Black citizens, for example, as a specific group as a threat to society, politicians can distract from more pressing issues and rally support around fear rather than unity. This tactic can incite violence, discrimination, and social unrest, ultimately endangering public safety and social harmony.
Moreover, when racial resentment intersects with political agendas, it can lead to systemic inequalities such as mass incarceration as a result of unfair high fines administered by the state in which Black citizens reside. Policies that arise from fear and division can hinder progress toward equity and inclusiveness, marginalizing entire communities in the political process. This exclusion not only affects those marginalized groups but also restricts the democratic process, diminishing the diversity of voices and perspectives critical for a healthy democracy.
Reference: "On Fertile Ground: How Racial Resentment Primes White Americans to Believe Fraud Accusations" https://papers.ssrn.com/sol3/papers.cfm?abstract_id=4976524

Finally, the long-term effects of sustained racial resentment and manipulation can result in disillusionment with democratic institutions. When citizens feel that their interests are not represented or that the political system is playing on their fears, it can lead to apathy, decreased voter turnout, and a general distrust in governance, as witnessed during the November 5, 2024, elections. In the worst-case scenario, this disillusionment can culminate in unstable political climates, increased extremism, and threats to democratic norms.
In summary, racial resentment and political manipulation undermine democracy's core principles by fostering division, perpetuating inequality, and eroding trust in institutions. Addressing these issues ensures a cohesive, just, and functional society.
Theodore R. Johnson of the Brennan Center for Justice, article THE ROLE OF RACIAL RESENTMENT IN OUR POLITICS, unequivocally identifies extreme White racism as the primary reason the democratic process in America has been hindered. He argues that an immediate reversal is essential to end the unwarranted animosity towards Black Americans, who are rightful and legal citizens. An example of political interference towards Black citizens via White racist Democrats, Republicans, plus the international community is demonstrated via the influx of insourced minority populations, facilitated by the Southern Evangelicals' "Sanctuary Movement," to dilute the political influence of the Black vote provides Americans an example of how political interference concerning the rights of Black citizens can be hindered. This led to a deliberate scheme, to systematically disenfranchise Black citizens through out the years. Causing purposeful hardships plus blocked access to quality careers plus civic resources during the 70s, 80s, and 90s that factors in as a result of Extreme White racism in the country. Johnson's report included evidence utilizing the Ian Shapiro Racial Resentment Scale. https://www.brennancenter.org/experts/theodore-r-johnson
Ian Shapiro Racial Resentment Scale

The Ian Shapiro racial resentment scale is a measurement tool used to assess attitudes and beliefs regarding race, particularly in the context of social and economic issues. Developed by political scientist Ian Shapiro, the scale typically focuses on resentment that some individuals may harbor towards racial or ethnic groups, especially concerning perceptions about fairness, competition for resources, and social policies like affirmative action.
The scale often includes a series of statements that respondents rate based on their level of agreement or disagreement. By analyzing these responses, researchers can better understand the dynamics of racial attitudes in society and how they might influence political behavior and public opinion. The scale is useful in studies exploring the intersections of race, identity, and policy preferences.
Johnson's report aimed to caution Black Americans about the forthcoming letdown due to the persistent resentment of White extremists towards Black citizens. His report shares that the racial resentment scale is a significant tool in understanding the growing divide between white Democrats and Republicans, particularly as views on racial groups intersect with electoral politics. This gap, slowly widening since the 1990s, accelerated around 2012, influenced by events like Trayvon Martin's killing and the rise of the Black Lives Matter movement. These events highlighted systemic racism for white Democrats, revealing that hard work alone couldn't prevent tragedies like the Charleston church shooting. While some Republicans showed small shifts after George Floyd's murder, white leftists had already undergone substantial changes nearly a decade earlier.

Currently, political outrage over issues like critical race theory and the 1619 Project exacerbates racial division for political gain, fueling media narratives and electoral strategies. On the left, race-centric appeals mobilize a multiracial electorate, while on the right, ethnonationalist appeals are masked by colorblind conservatism. This situation heightens perceived racial tensions and hinders meaningful political debates on racism's impact, despite the desire for systemic reforms by many Americans.
Ultimately, race relations reveal the vulnerabilities of our democracy, influencing who benefits or suffers from government actions. Meaningful discussions about the nation's future must address how racial views shape our positions on critical issues like government size, individual rights, and equality of opportunity. To learn more about Theodore R. Johnson of the Brennan Center for Justice report THE ROLE OF RACIAL RESENTMENT IN OUR POLITICS please click the link: https://www.brennancenter.org/our-work/analysis-opinion/role-racial-resentment-our-politics
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