Battling for the Soul of the GOP: From Traditional Values to Trump’s Turbulence
In the evolving landscape of American politics, the Republican Party stands at a crossroads, grappling with internal conflict and ideological shifts that have brought it under the global spotlight. This transformative period is captured through the experiences of Kathy Petsas, a figure emblematic of the traditional GOP spirit, in Isaac Arnsdorf’s latest book, “Finish What We Started.”
Petsas, whose Republican roots run deep, found herself ensnared in the tumultuous whirlwind of the MAGA movement spearheaded by Donald Trump and fervently promoted by influential personalities like Steve Bannon. The narrative delves into her personal and political disillusionment as she witnesses the party she devoted her life to, straying into uncharted territories of extremism and conspiracy theories. This insightful account sheds light on the stark disconnect between the GOP’s longstanding values and the aggressive, cult-like allegiance to Trump that prioritizes loyalty over principle.
Despite mounting challenges and increasing isolation within her party, Petsas’ story is not merely one of defeat but of resilience and unwavering commitment to the core tenets of the Republican ideology. “Finish What We Started” acts as a testament to the internal battles enveloping the GOP, offering a critical examination of how it navigates its identity amid the rising tide of division and polarization.