Hardship does two things relevant here: It creates discontent, and can help build empathy. Both would eventually create a groundswell of support for bettering conditions across demographics.

The right has effectively neutered both, by being fast with their blame game. Even though they cause the hardship, they point the finger faster and louder at the immigrants, democrats, and minorities, both redirecting blame and severing empathetic ties.

There is a reason why this is the core part of the fascist playbook - it works.

Yes, there’s little chance they aren’t completely aware of what they are doing. They’re doing it intentionally.

Well, that certainly would be the typical Democratic strategy: concede the game hoping that they get a good sportsmanship award.

Ok ok, but hear me out - what if we didn’t have elections. No problem!

Hey, that was their name already! What are you trying to pull!