Woke Hysteria Resurfaces as Trump's Second Term Continues

Despite President Donald Trump's electoral successes in 2024, which included winning the popular vote and dominating swing states, a resurgence of cultural fervor reminiscent of the "Woke 1.0" era is becoming apparent. This phenomenon is manifesting through new media cancellations and is being amplified by political figures, creating a complex dynamic as Trump's second term progresses.

Following his 2024 victory, Trump entered office with a perception of occupying the political center and having significantly challenged the cultural left. This shift was observed as non-aligned voices in media and podcasting gravitated towards him, alienated by what was perceived as the illiberalism of contemporary Democrats. Elements within Silicon Valley also reportedly aligned with Trump. The administration achieved policy victories, notably winning the debate over transgender issues, which was bolstered by a Supreme Court ruling upholding state bans on trans female athletes in girls' sports. Mass deportation, once considered an extreme stance, was also successfully introduced into mainstream political discourse. Corporations began to shed Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) programs in response to the prevailing political climate. Initially, Trump's election did not face the same level of backlash as his first term, and he even enjoyed some cultural cachet, with instances like NFL players performing his signature dance moves on the field.

However, the current atmosphere appears to be shifting. The author describes a renewed "mass hysteria" in elite culture, this time sparked by an alleged gang rape at a college campus, contrasting it with earlier events like the deaths of Michael Brown or George Floyd. The narrative suggests a similar pattern of prioritizing narrative over facts and a continued belief in the systemic oppression of victim groups. This resurgence is highlighted by the condemnation of comedian Shane Gillis, who had previously been dropped from "Saturday Night Live" during the "Woke 1.0" period. Additionally, individuals are facing consequences for past statements, such as the Portland Trail Blazers firing their new TV announcer for offensive social media posts made as a teenager.

While the current level of fervor may not reach the intensity seen after George Floyd's death, when many institutions adopted DEI principles, the underlying "woke fever" has not dissipated. The dynamic between political leaders and their respective parties is seen as consequential, with influential figures often pulling their parties in their direction. The author suggests that the Democratic Party is currently radicalizing rather than retreating to a more centrist position, raising the possibility of a more ideologically driven Democratic Party taking unified control in 2028 and aligning with progressive cultural forces.

Trump's current political standing is identified as a key factor in whether this resurgence gains further momentum. While he was previously positioned as a candidate focused on common-sense issues and everyday concerns, his current approval ratings on key issues are reportedly underwater, and his personal interests are seen as diverging from public concerns. The article posits that Trump, who previously acted as a check on cultural radicalism, could inadvertently accelerate it as his second term progresses.

Despite potential Democratic setbacks in upcoming midterms and the possibility that "woke" ideology may be too extreme for widespread public acceptance, its power is noted to stem less from public persuasion and more from allies in influential positions who can compel compliance from fence-sitters. The tendency towards this form of cultural activism is seen as persistent and potentially poised for renewed influence. The current environment, while not mirroring the "mass irrationality" of 2020, is described as disquieting and carrying the potential for escalation.