US Opinion and Commentary

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Trump’s Volatile Crowds Are No Accident

Posted March 22nd, 2016 at 11:22 am (UTC-4)
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The evidence for this comes from an area of psychology known as “terror management theory,” which asserts that when we are made to feel aware of our mortality, we identify even more strongly with those who share our cultural worldview. This not only reduces anxiety but also makes us more hostile towards members of other groups.

The G.O.P. at a Crossroads

Posted December 17th, 2015 at 12:54 pm (UTC-4)
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[I]f the race came down to the three men currently leading in the national polls, Republican primary voters would be facing their most ideologically consequential choice since 1980. Unlike many G.O.P. campaigns, in which terms like “establishment” and “populist” are mostly about affect and rhetoric, this time the Republican front-runners offer three very different visions […]

5 Questions on the Islamic State for GOP Presidential Candidates

Posted December 15th, 2015 at 3:56 pm (UTC-4)
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[L]et’s imagine an ideal debate where candidates didn’t really know the questions in advance and were required to elaborate on their tough talk. Here are five counterterrorism questions pertaining to the Islamic State that might be asked.

Jeb Bush: My Plan For Restoring Federalism

Posted December 9th, 2015 at 4:47 pm (UTC-4)
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Under President Obama, the pendulum has swung far to the left, with federal mandates, regulations and bureaucrats encroaching on the rights of the states and their citizens. As president, I will restore the proper balance between Washington and the states. I will honor the separation of powers…