In a recent segment on “Morning Joe,” MSNBC’s Chris Matthews drew an unexpected comparison between dealing with angry rural Americans and combating terrorism. While this analogy may seem unconventional, Matthews argued that anger is crucial in mobilizing voters during elections.
Matthews suggested that rural Americans harbor deep-seated anger towards liberal elites, which he likened to the sentiments of terrorists in Afghanistan and Iraq after the U.S. military presence. He emphasized that this “rural rage” stems from a perception that the coastal elite disregards their concerns.
According to Matthews, when the media mocks President Trump, rural Americans feel personally attacked. He explained, “Every time we make fun of Trump, we’re making fun of them… It’s a weird thing, but in a way, it’s like fighting terrorism.” He elaborated on the analogy, noting that deploying armies or military forces, as seen in Afghanistan and Iraq, doesn’t solve the underlying issues but instead fuels more anger and animosity.
Interestingly, this discussion on rural anger coincides with a recent decision by Biden’s Federal Communications Commission (FCC). The FCC rescinded a nearly $900 million award to Elon Musk’s SpaceX, which was intended to provide broadband internet to over 640,000 homes and businesses in rural areas across 35 states. The FCC justified its decision by stating that SpaceX’s Starlink failed to demonstrate the capacity to meet the requirements for providing these services.
FCC Commissioner Brendan Carr expressed concerns over this move, emphasizing that rural America would suffer the most. While the loss of $900 million may not significantly impact Elon Musk, millions of Americans were left without high-speed internet access as the FCC withdrew its commitment and failed to provide an alternative solution.
This decision raises questions about the representation and inclusion of rural America in the digital age. Reliable internet access is crucial for education, business, and communication, yet many rural communities face significant challenges. The withdrawal of this broadband initiative further exacerbates the digital divide, leaving rural Americans at a disadvantage compared to their urban counterparts.
As we navigate the complexities of our divided society, it is essential to recognize and address the underlying grievances that contribute to anger and frustration among different population segments. Understanding the challenges faced by rural Americans and ensuring equitable access to resources, such as high-speed internet, is a vital step towards bridging these divides. We hope to build a stronger and more united nation by fostering inclusivity and understanding.