The Bitter End

In The Bitter End, the authors analyze the divisive nature of the 2020 election and its implications for the future of American politics.

The year 2020 was a pivotal moment in American politics, marked by a global pandemic, protests for racial justice, and a highly contested presidential election. In The Bitter End, authors John Sides, Chris Tausanovitch, and Lynn Vavreck delve into the events that shaped this tumultuous year. The book explores how the attack on the U.S. Capitol aimed to overturn Joe Biden's victory, revealing the deep divisions within the electorate. The authors analyze both long-term political trends and immediate shocks that contributed to this explosive period in American history.

The narrative illustrates how Trump's presidency exacerbated existing partisan divides, intensifying the identity politics that emerged during the 2016 election. The authors argue that presidential elections have become increasingly polarized, with minimal opportunities for significant shifts in voter allegiance. Despite numerous scandals, a recession, and the ongoing pandemic, Trump's loyal base kept the election closely contested. However, even minor changes in public sentiment can yield substantial effects, as seen when Biden's support surged in response to Trump's push to reopen the country amidst rising COVID-19 cases.

The Bitter End ultimately reveals that rather than uniting to confront national crises, such as the pandemic and social unrest, these events have deepened the existing fractures in American society. The book provides a comprehensive examination of the tumultuous election and the precarious path ahead for the nation.