FEAR OF FOREIGNERS AND IMMIGRANTS

HE IS NOT SHY ABOUT REVEALING HIS FEAR
Donald Trump has consistently expressed rhetoric and supported policies that reflect a deep suspicion of, and hostility toward, foreigners and immigrants. Trump’s words and actions demonstrate a persistent pattern of portraying immigrants and foreigners as threats, using fear-based rhetoric and policies to mobilize political support. His public statements and actions reveal a pattern of xenophobia and nativism:

Campaign and Presidential Rhetoric: Trump launched his 2016 presidential campaign by characterizing Mexican immigrants as “rapists” and criminals and repeatedly described immigrants as sources of drugs and crime. He also called for a ban on all Muslims entering the United States, a policy widely criticized as Islamophobic and rooted in fear of foreigners.

Policy Proposals and Actions: His administration implemented strict immigration policies, including travel bans targeting predominantly Muslim countries, efforts to reduce legal immigration, and attempts to end protections for certain immigrant groups. He frequently advocated building a wall on the southern border as a central campaign promise.

Rhetoric About Specific Groups: Trump has used derogatory language to describe immigrants from certain countries, referring to nations in Africa, as well as Haiti and El Salvador, as “shithole countries,” and suggested the U.S. should accept more immigrants from places like Norway17. He has also linked the COVID-19 pandemic to China using terms like “Chinese virus” and “Kung flu,” which fueled anti-Asian sentiment.

Political Strategy: Studies and analyses show that Trump’s political success has been closely tied to stoking fears about immigrants and foreigners, appealing to voters with anti-immigrant, racist, and xenophobic attitudes. His rallies and messaging have been linked to increases in hate crimes and prejudiced violence in areas where he has strong support5.

Personal Statements: Trump has questioned the legitimacy of American citizens with immigrant backgrounds, such as suggesting that a U.S.-born judge with Mexican heritage could not be impartial and telling congresswomen of color to “go back” to the “broken and crime infested countries they came from,” even though most were born in the U.S.

It is not a secret that Trump’s followers share his fear of immigrants and foreigners.

RESOURCES FOR FURTHER STUDY