" A large plurality of the Trump electorate believed the definition of ‘conservative’ was simply ‘Not Hillary.’ "
- Rick Wilson

In the context of American politics, this quote highlights a particular sentiment among some voters who supported former President Donald Trump during his 2016 election campaign. Essentially, it suggests that many Trump supporters viewed their preference for him as a direct rejection of Hillary Clinton, rather than based on specific policy stances or ideological alignment with traditional conservative values.

The deeper meaning of this quote reveals the complexity and sometimes polarized nature of political identities in contemporary American politics. It underscores how anti-establishment sentiment can overshadow conventional party affiliations and ideological beliefs. Many voters may choose a candidate not necessarily because they align with their policies, but rather to protest against an incumbent or opposition figure who is seen as the status quo. This phenomenon illustrates a shift towards identity-based voting over issue-driven decision-making, where the perception of opposing a disliked figure becomes more important than supporting a preferred one.

Rick Wilson is a Republican strategist and political commentator known for his critical stance on President Donald Trump and the broader conservative movement. He has been vocal about the challenges within the Republican Party and the influence of social media on politics. His insights often provide an insider's perspective on the dynamics between party leadership, voters, and candidates in shaping election outcomes.