Staff Reports
In his second term, Donald Trump is on a mission that goes beyond mere politics—he’s after American culture itself. Trump argues that “wokeness” has found its way into museums, sports, and even how the youth define themselves today. His focus? To revive a vision of national identity that harkens back to earlier, perhaps simpler, times. One place where the pulse of this cultural shift can be felt is at the annual America Fest. Hosted by Turning Point, this event is part political rally and part influencer convention, gathering a troop of conservative stars with massive online followings. They support Trump’s agenda and work hard to plant those ideas in the digital spaces frequented by younger audiences.
Among the vibrant faces at America Fest, one of the standout young conservatives is Benny Johnson. Known for mixing sharp political commentary with a sprinkle of humor, Johnson kicked off the event with heartfelt energy, wishing everyone a Merry Christmas. There was a sense of pride in the air as discussions turned to whether Trump’s “Make America Great Again” message is still winning the cultural battlefield. Despite an environment where, just a year ago, MAGA hats were spotted everywhere, new polls show a worrisome dip in support among voters under 30. A staggering 60% disapprove of the president’s performance, raising questions about the connection between Trump and younger generations, even as he attempts to speak their language through memes and videos.
In part, Trump continues to engage the youth through his love for sports, notably mixed martial arts. He has a long-lasting relationship with the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC), which flourished at his casinos before gaining wider acceptance. Trump plans to host a UFC event on the White House lawn as part of America’s 250th birthday. For fans of the sport and his administration, this adds a layer of excitement and celebration, showcasing a tradition that has always been part of American culture. Dana White, the UFC chief, has praised Trump, considering him a fighter and supporter of the sport, underlining how combat sports represent perseverance and the American dream.
But it’s not just sports; Trump is also tackling the world of cultural institutions. He is urging a change in how museums tell America’s history, criticizing what he views as an excessive focus on issues like race and privilege. His perspective is that institutions like the Smithsonian should represent a balanced view of history, celebrating America’s achievements rather than framing it through the lens of conflict between oppressed and oppressor. For Trump, the narrative should be clear: America is a place of opportunity and success, not division.
As the countdown to America’s 250th birthday begins, this cultural tug-of-war is bound to intensify. The conversations sparked at events like America Fest highlight the broader fight for national identity, where every meeting of mind, every viral meme, and every sporting event becomes part of the larger dialogue. Whether viewed as a restoration of lost values or a troubling rewrite of history, one thing is clear: Trump’s impact on the cultural landscape is profound and multifaceted, intertwining politics with the very fabric of American life.
