Rick Wilson's book, "Everything Trump Touches Dies," argues that Donald Trump's supporters exemplify the culmination of a long-standing trend in American politics characterized by anti-intellectualism and paranoia. This perspective draws on Richard Hofstadter's insights from 1964, which described a "paranoid style" in political discourse as a significant force shaping American attitudes and beliefs.
Wilson suggests that Trump's base represents a shift away from reasoned debate towards a more visceral and emotionally charged political environment. This shift reflects a broader cultural context where distrust of expertise and established norms has flourished, making Trump's brand of politics appealing to many voters seeking validation of their grievances.