Films often attract their fair share of political controversy. However, rarely has a film accused of promoting the politics of resentment. This sentiment, though, is not confined to the silver screen. In fact, it runs deep in the heart of rural America, where many individuals feel marginalized and overlooked by the political elite.
Katherine Cramer's 2016 book “The Politics of Resentment” explored how rural Wisconsinites perceived their place in society. It's an exploration that sheds light on the complex dynamics of power and privilege that play out in these communities. Despite their hard work and contributions to society, many rural Americans feel as though they are not getting their fair share of the pie.
Many times this resentment comes out as a feeling of, “I'm a deserving person, a hardworking American and the things I deserve are actually being taken away from me by those in power.” This deep-seated sense of entitlement and injustice fuels a sense of resentment that is hard to shake.
We say very clearly that rural America is hurting. But we refuse to justify attitudes that some scholars try to underplay. The reality is that many rural communities are struggling to make ends meet, facing economic hardship and a lack of access to resources that are readily available in urban centers.
You might know the Pennsylvania governor as the guy who got a collapsed part of Interstate 95 in Philadelphia fixed within 12 days. This kind of swift action is commendable, but it does little to address the underlying issues of inequality and resentment that persist in rural America.
Author Kathy Cramer shares views of the Wisconsin political landscape, post 2020 vote. Her insights provide a valuable perspective on the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead for rural communities in the wake of a divisive election.
He went after a plan for a high-speed rail between Madison and Milwaukee. He argued Wisconsin taxpayers were unfairly shouldering the cost for a project that would primarily benefit urban areas. This kind of rhetoric only serves to further alienate rural voters and deepen the politics of resentment that already exist.
There were three parts to this rural resentment. Many folks perceived that the state government in Madison sucked in all of their money, leaving them with little to show for it. This sense of being exploited by those in power only adds fuel to the fire of resentment that burns in the hearts of many rural Americans.
In conclusion, the politics of resentment in rural America are a complex and multifaceted issue that requires careful consideration and thoughtful action. By acknowledging the deep-seated feelings of injustice and inequality that exist in these communities, we can begin to address the root causes of resentment and work towards a more equitable and inclusive society.
