What is the Maga Movement, used by Trump and his followers

Chijioke Obinna

What is the Maga Movement, used by Trump and his followers

When you listen to the acronym “Maga”, it is inevitable that you think of “Make America Great Again”, that is, “make América Grande again.” But what began as a campaign slogan has become something much more complex: A political, cultural and social movement that orbits Donald Trump, his ideas and his style.

The origin

Although Trump popularized “Make America Great Again” in 2015, its origin dates back to the campaign of Ronald Reagan in 1980, Under the slogan “Let’s Make America Great Again”. In fact, Bill Clinton He also reused the phrase in the 90s.

However, what differentiates Maga from other campaigns from previous presidents is their Ideological depth. It is not just a call to patriotism, but a narrative that argues that The United States was great, greatness was lost because of globalization, immigration and multiculturalism, and that greatness can recover.

The Maga Pillars

The bases of the motto are clear: Economic protectionism, strict border control, defense of Judeo -Christian values ​​and a traditional family assessment.

Maga did not stay in the typical slogan of the speeches. Went further, because he adopted powerful formats such as famous red caps, which translated into a visual icon of Trumpism. What began as merchandising was extended, and has generated an emotional basis.

Dark Maga

Even within Maga there is a sector radical defined as “Dark Maga”a version Authoritarian that mixes apocalyptic aesthetics and total idolatry towards Trump.

Why does it matter today?

Maga has become not only an electoral trend, but a Authentic power within the Republican Party, with Donald Trump as its undisputed leader. The “first” policy associated with Maga has generated tension in international relations through the famous tariffs, withdrawal of multilateral agreements and climate matters.

What began as a catchy slogan is now in a global phenomenon, because it is already a populist ideology that seeks Restore a “big America” ​​from a nationalist, traditionalist and protectionist vision. It has been promoted by Trump, and has already generated a cultural brand, a media, symbolic and emotional style that Today defines much of the political, social and cultural debate of the United States, And that also, he covers in much of the world.

Maga | Photo by David McNew/Getty Images

The break between Trump and Elon Musk has shaken the movement

The recent rupture between Donald Trump and Elon Musk has generated true turbulence in the ranks of the Maga Movement.

The relationship between the two began as a Political and Business Alliancewith Musk contributing almost 300 million dollars and logistical support during the campaign, resulted in a public war after disagreement for the legislative package known as the “Big Beautiful Bill”. In a few days, Musk called Boicote the law and pointed out possible Trump links with Jeffrey Epsteinwhile the former president responded by threatening the millionaire contracts from Spacex and Tesla.

And the impact on the magic movement has been immediate. For example, more radical wing figures, such as Steve Bannon, have been publicly aligned with Trump, even hinting Musk deportation route. Meanwhile, republican strategists in Washington recognize that Gap reflects the fragility of the coalition, because of course, The clash between the Trump’s nationalist populism And the vision Musk Globalist and Technology It exposes deep ideological divisions.

That is, this break is suggesting the idea that it is We may be facing a reconfiguration of the movement.

Donald Trump and Elon Musk
Donald Trump and Elon Musk | Photo by Jeff Bottari/Zuffa LLC

Chijioke Obinna

I've been passionate about storytelling and journalism since my early days growing up in Lagos. With a background in political science and years of experience in investigative reporting, I aim to bring nuanced perspectives to pressing global issues. Outside of writing, I enjoy exploring Nigeria’s vibrant cultural scene and mentoring young aspiring journalists.