What seems to be missing from the reaction to Trumps Charlottesville response

Since Trump’s last bizarre news conference we are seeing a number of prominent GOPers speak out against his tacit support for the Neo-Nazis and white supremacists who descended on Charlottesville to spread their message of hate. Some call him out by name, some simply condemn the message and viewpoint espoused by them in general.

For that I give them absolutely zero credit. No one should need to be praised for speaking out against these vile groups and ideas.

We are also seeing a lot of criticism and disbelief for Trump's stance in the media.

But what is missing is the recognition that it wasn’t Trump’s tweets or statements in response to the events of last weekend that emboldened these hate groups - it was the GOP platform. The platform that Trump ran on and received support from across the GOP is what brought these hate groups off the internet and small gatherings into the streets.

When it comes down to it - there is no daylight between what these various groups collectively known as the “alt-right” (a label which some are now shunning in favor of “new right”) and the GOP.

Racism? Check. Sexism? Check. Anti-government(to include anti-taxation)? Check. Anti-science? Check. Anti-immigration? Check. Anti-“globalist”? Check. Anti-Muslim? Check. Anti-LGTBQ? Check. Nationalism? Check. Gun Rights? Check. And so on.

There are a few issues where there is a bit of wiggle room, such as anti-Semitism - but that is more a function of the makeup of the multiple groups that comprise the alt-right. Even so, that didn’t stop them from embracing anti-Semitic slogans and symbols as part of their demonstrations on Friday night and Saturday.

While the many in the GOP and their supporters may claim to denounce the hatred and bigotry of Neo-Nazis, Fascists, and White Nationalists - their policies betray their true sentiments.

Sorry GOP, you can denounce their expressions of bigotry and hate all you want. But the simple fact is that on many issues you are in total agreement. You share the same goals, the only difference (if any) is the mechanism you employ.