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In the past, Republicans, particularly those often labeled as the “Establishment,” found a way to align their administration's actions with Trump’s populist messaging while adhering to traditional party lines. Figures like Mitch McConnell epitomized this tactic, often continuing to push policies reflective of his own interests while merely adding Trumpian phrases to placate a more vociferous electorate.
McConnell, among others, often engaged in a performance of aligning sentiments with the MAGA movement—using slogans and imagery to earn voter goodwill without meaningful changes in policy. This tactic permitted the continuation of old agendas under the guise of a new political ethos.