In my new essay for Salon, I examine how the construction and maintenance of democracy is work for adults. The most motivated of Trump supporters have demonstrated a hatred of democracy and diversity, not so much for political reasons (they are politically unsophisticated and uninformed), but because they are deeply afraid of the responsibility and uncertainty that define democracy and diversity. Trump, an authoritarian buffoon, promises to “fix” all of their problems – and right all of the wrongs of the “rigged” system – and in doing so, assures his childlike supporters that they are no longer accountable for their own lives. Their problems are the results of Mexicans, Muslims, trade deals, and a massive conspiracy. Their solution is voting for him.

Read the entire essay at Salon.