Donald Trump has proven himself to be a terrible leader. His signature accomplishments have been the tax break for the rich and the seating of two Supreme court justices. However, he never led in either of these instances. Both the tax break and the appointments were the handiwork of Mitch McConnell, the Republican leader of the Senate. McConnell has eclipsed Trump and Paul “whats-his-name” Ryan as the most influential politician in 2018. What Trump has succeeded in is in creating chaos and uncertainty around him.
What Trump does is that he stokes his base. His chief tool has been racial animosity. It should not be forgotten that in his first speech as a candidate, Trump declared Mexicans to be rapists, and has continued to compare Central American refugees to be animals. This is the Trump that will be true to form until the midterm elections: the jingoistic, xenophobic, race-baiting neo-fascist who will stoke the insecurities of white voters. McConnell and the Republican establishment understand that Trump’s approach is superior to their use of dog-whistles in alarming white voters. This is the reason for their silence when Trump lies about rioting in American cities.
By letting Trump be Trump, the Republican establishment has established a pact with the devil. It may be the case that Republicans will maintain control of both houses, but the cost they will have paid is to establish the Republican brand as a xenophobic, racist party. There is no telling how long they may succeed as such–never underestimate the power of hatred–but it will be impossible for them to deny their association with the lowest form of political discourse.