Progressives are still so pessimistic, but why? The populist right can and will be defeated
From the US midterms to Brazil and Hungary, extremists are floundering yet the left still overestimates their power. Reality is on our side
TL;DR
- The right has experienced numerous election defeats globally, yet liberals and leftists often express surprise and maintain a conviction of the right's eventual return to power.
- Rightwing victories, such as Brexit and Trump's 2016 win, are often overhyped, leading to a perception of rightwing dominance that doesn't reflect the reality of political stalemate.
- The strength of the populist right is overestimated, partly due to their own overconfidence and amplification by rightwing media.
- Political power is more complex than national contests suggest, involving protests, lobbying, cultural shifts, and evolving public attitudes.
- Modern conservatism has not achieved the hegemonic influence of leaders like Reagan or Thatcher, with current rightwing icons struggling to maintain momentum and popularity.
- Overestimation of the right can make left-leaning governments too cautious, leading them to adopt policies influenced by rightwing narratives.
- Opponents of the right must challenge their fear-mongering and break the association of the right with realism.