In a critical analysis, Tomasz Terlikowski asserts that Donald Trump's political actions cannot be classified as conservative. He argues that conservatism is not merely a set of political beliefs, but more so a mode of thinking and understanding the world. Terlikowski points out that Trump's method is characterized by perpetual change, an indifference to evaluating costs and consequences, and an inclination to identify and remove scapegoats as a means to solve problems. These traits mark a stark deviation from traditional conservative principles.

The author delves deeper into the implications of Trump's governance style, suggesting that it embodies a revolutionary rather than conservative approach. By continuously shifting his policies and positions without regard for their broader implications, Trump disrupts the core tenets of conservatism, which typically emphasize stability, prudence, and deep respect for established institutions. This, according to Terlikowski, creates a disconnect between Trump's political maneuvering and the conservative ideology he is often associated with.

Through this lens, Terlikowski highlights the inconsistency within Trump’s rhetoric and policies, raising questions about the nature of political identity in contemporary American politics. He notes that as political identities evolve, the defining features of conservatism are also challenged, leading to a re-evaluation of what it means to be conservative in the current political landscape. The conversation encourages readers to reconsider the alignment of their beliefs with the emerging trends in political leadership and governance.