15 Ways the MAGA Movement Has Changed America for the Worse

The MAGA movement, known for its slogan “Make America Great Again,” has profoundly impacted American society since its inception in 2015. While supporters tout its achievements, critics argue that the movement has had significant negative consequences.

Only less than 25% of Americans view the MAGA movement positively.¹ This figure highlights the widespread disapproval and contentious nature of the movement’s legacy​​.

Here are 15 things the MAGA movement has arguably ruined.

1. Civil Discourse

One of the most apparent casualties of the MAGA era is civil discourse. The movement’s rhetoric often escalated into aggressive and divisive language, creating an environment where respectful debate is rare. This shift has contributed to a polarized society where conversations about politics and policy frequently devolve into shouting matches.

This degradation of dialogue has affected personal relationships and public discourse alike. Friends and family members have found themselves at odds, sometimes irreparably, over political disagreements.

Public forums, including social media platforms, have become battlegrounds where insults replace insights, further entrenching divisions (ref).

2. Trust in Media

The MAGA movement has also eroded trust in the media (ref). Branding mainstream outlets as “fake news” has cast doubt on journalistic integrity and led many to question the validity of any reporting that doesn’t align with their views. This skepticism towards the media has had far-reaching consequences, undermining the role of journalism in holding power accountable.

With trust in traditional media waning, misinformation and conspiracy theories have found fertile ground. Alternative media sources, often lacking in credibility, have risen in popularity, spreading false narratives that further confuse and mislead the public.

3. Environmental Protection

Environmental protections have suffered under the MAGA agenda (ref). The administration’s focus on deregulation often came at the expense of the environment, rolling back numerous policies designed to protect natural resources and combat climate change. This retreat from environmental stewardship has sparked significant concern among scientists and environmentalists.

Policies such as withdrawing from the Paris Agreement and weakening the Clean Water Act have had tangible impacts. These actions have not only slowed progress in addressing climate change but also jeopardized ecosystems and public health, reversing years of environmental gains.

4. International Alliances

The MAGA movement’s emphasis on “America First” has strained international alliances.

Traditional allies have been alienated by a foreign policy that often appears unilateral and dismissive of collaborative efforts. This approach has weakened the United States’ global standing and created rifts that could take years to mend.

Countries that once viewed the U.S. as a reliable partner have reconsidered their alliances (ref), seeking new partnerships and sometimes aligning with American adversaries. The long-term implications of these fractured relationships may lead to a more unstable and unpredictable global political landscape.

5. Immigration Policies

Immigration policies under the MAGA movement have sparked controversy and humanitarian crises (ref).

The push for stricter immigration controls resulted in policies such as family separations at the border, the Muslim travel ban, and reductions in refugee admissions. These measures have been widely criticized for their harshness and lack of compassion.

The repercussions of these policies extend beyond immediate humanitarian concerns. They have contributed to a climate of fear and uncertainty among immigrant communities, disrupted the lives of countless families, and painted the U.S. as less welcoming to those seeking a better life.

6. Racial Tensions

The MAGA movement has been linked to an increase in racial tensions across the country (ref). Its rhetoric and policies have often been perceived as antagonistic towards minority groups, exacerbating existing divides. This has led to a rise in hate crimes and a resurgence of white nationalist sentiments.

Communities of color have felt particularly targeted, leading to widespread protests and calls for justice.

The movement’s impact on race relations has highlighted the persistent inequalities in American society and the urgent need for comprehensive reforms to address systemic racism.

7. Public Trust in Elections

Public trust in the electoral process has suffered under the MAGA movement (ref).

Baseless claims of widespread voter fraud and a refusal to accept electoral outcomes have undermined confidence in democratic institutions. This erosion of trust poses a significant threat to the integrity of future elections.

Efforts to delegitimize the electoral process have led to increased polarization and skepticism among voters. The fallout from these actions was evident during the January 6th Capitol riot, where mistrust in the election results fueled violent attempts to overturn a democratic outcome.

8. Science & Public Health

Another area of concern is the handling of science and public health issues, particularly during the recent pandemic.

Politicizing public health measures, such as mask mandates and vaccinations, has led to widespread confusion.

9. Economic Inequality

Despite promises to revitalize the economy, the MAGA movement’s policies have often favored the wealthy, exacerbating economic inequality (ref).

Tax cuts for corporations and the rich have not translated into widespread economic benefits for the average American. Instead, the wealth gap has widened, leaving many struggling to make ends meet.

Economic disparities have been further highlighted by the pandemic, where relief efforts were criticized for their inadequacy and inequitable distribution. The lack of substantial support for low-income families and small businesses has underscored the deepening economic divide.

10. Climate Change Initiatives

Climate change initiatives have stalled or been reversed under the MAGA administration.

The withdrawal from international agreements (ref) and the rollback of domestic regulations have hindered progress the plans for global warming. This retreat has drawn criticism from environmentalists and international leaders alike.

The long-term consequences of these actions are profound. Delayed action on climate change means greater future challenges as the window to mitigate its effects narrows. The lack of leadership on this critical issue has also diminished the U.S.’s influence on global environmental policy.

11. Healthcare Access

The MAGA movement’s efforts to dismantle the Affordable Care Act (ACA) have threatened healthcare access for millions of Americans. Attempts to repeal and replace the ACA without a viable alternative have created uncertainty and fear among those who rely on its coverage provisions.

The ongoing battle over healthcare has highlighted the fragility of the U.S. healthcare system.

Many Americans remain at risk of losing their insurance (ref), facing higher premiums, and struggling to afford necessary medical care, further complicating the nation’s health crisis.

12. LGBTQ+ Rights

LGBTQ+ rights have faced setbacks during the MAGA era (ref). Policies and judicial appointments reflecting conservative values have rolled back protections and undermined advances made in recent years. This has led to increased discrimination and challenges for the LGBTQ+ community.

The impact of these changes is felt in various aspects of life, from employment and housing discrimination to healthcare access. The reversal of inclusive policies has sparked fear and uncertainty, threatening the progress made towards equality and acceptance.

13. Educational Standards

Educational standards have also been affected by the MAGA movement’s policies. The emphasis on “patriotic education” and the push against critical race theory have stirred controversy and divided educators (ref). These efforts have been seen as attempts to politicize education and whitewash American history.

The implications for students are significant, as these policies influence the curriculum and the overall educational environment. Debates over educational content have distracted from broader issues like funding and teacher support, ultimately impacting the quality of education.

14. National Unity

National unity has been strained under the MAGA movement. The focus on divisive rhetoric and policies has deepened political and social divides, making it harder for Americans to find common ground. This polarization has permeated every aspect of life, from community interactions to national politics.

Efforts to bridge these divides face significant challenges as mistrust and animosity have become entrenched. Rebuilding national unity requires a concerted effort to promote dialogue, understanding, and cooperation among all Americans.

15. International Reputation

Finally, the MAGA movement has damaged the United States’ international reputation (ref). Its emphasis on isolationism and disregard for international norms have led to a perception of the U.S. as an unreliable and self-centered actor on the global stage.

Restoring the country’s standing will require significant diplomatic efforts and a recommitment to international cooperation. The loss of credibility and influence has long-term implications for global leadership and the ability to effectively address international challenges.

The MAGA movement has undeniably left a lasting mark on American society, often in ways that have fueled division and controversy. As America grapples with these challenges, it becomes crucial to understand and address the deep-seated issues exacerbated by the movement.

Source:

1. nbcnews.com