Regardless of this possible policy flip-flop, Trump’s fundamental tone on immigration has not changed, because ultimately his argument — that immigrants disrupt the American identity — is not based in policy, it’s based in sentiment. [...]
Here’s what I found: Though Breitbart weaves in some traditional economic anxieties over immigrants stealing Americans’ jobs, the core of its coverage of immigration paints a picture of fear. Immigration is a threat to the literal safety of Americans, and, more importantly, the national and religious identity of white, Christian Americans. This worldview has distinguished Trump from opposing GOP candidates. Even as policies have shifted, he remains true to his messaging that white America’s national identity is at stake. [...]
The anti-immigration wing of the Republican Party’s message was once primarily economic. They argued that immigrants, willing to work for lesser wages and dependent on welfare programs, are taking American jobs and disrupting the fabric of United States’ work force.
Fundamentally this sentiment still exists — and Breitbart has a fair number of articles articulating the economic costs. But it’s clear that Breitbart doesn’t see the fight over immigration just in terms of economics. Rather, the economic impact has almost become an afterthought, used to strengthen the main argument that immigrants threaten the safety and identity of Americans. [...]
Between Trump and Breitbart’s worldview it’s clear that immigration as discussed in the Republican Party is no longer a policy issue; it’s about the fear of losing a white national identity.
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