Understanding Pro-Brexiteers: Supporting Immigration Control Without Admiring Trump

Why exactly are there so many pro-Brexiteers/Conservative Brits who support migration control but do not necessarily admire Donald Trump? Many people may assume that Brexit supporters, who advocate for strict immigration policies, would also embrace Trump. However, this is not always the case. Pro-Brexiteers, particularly those who support controlled immigration, often have nuanced views on Trump that are distinct from their stance on migration. Here, we explore these perspectives and clarify common misconceptions.

Pro-Brexiteers and Immigration Control

Pro-Brexiteers often advocate for the right to control immigration, which is fundamentally different from outright opposition to migration. Individual pro-Brexiteers like John Doe (a pseudonym) from Brexit-supporting communities explain, 'I support the right to control migration, but I am generally supportive of migration. The key is to have a controlled system.' This distinction is crucial as it highlights that not all pro-Brexiteers oppose migration outright.

Furthermore, many pro-Brexiteers, including John Doe, do not share Trump's divisive rhetoric. As a relatively calm and sanguine person, foreign leaders like Trump rarely cause him to react strongly. However, Trump's presidency was widely criticized both in the UK and globally. John Doe adds, 'I don't hate Trump - he's not a person who typically gets under my skin - but I do believe he was not a good president who did little to benefit his country or the world.'

The Complexity of Brexit Stance

The perception of Brexit is often oversimplified. For many pro-Brexiteers, leaving the EU was primarily about regaining control over migration. But leaving the EU is not unique to the UK; numerous countries have also chosen this path. However, the portrayal of Brexit as a politically driven idea that was 'quite irrational' has shaped public opinion.

Examples include the Boris Johnson administration and the Liz Truss government, both of which were widely criticized for their ineffective leadership. The period of strong Tory party dominance over 14 years has left the party exhausted and divided. As a result, a shift in political landscape has seen the Labour party gain power, offering a fresh set of solutions to long-standing issues.

British Views on Foreign Leaders: Trump

It is both surprising and notable that many pro-Brexiteers, conservative Brits, and the general British population have a considerable aversion to Donald Trump. Trump's controversial image as a alleged racist, misogynist, rapist, thief, and convicted felon makes him a target of disdain for many groups, regardless of political affiliation. Politicians from various parties, including the Tories, have expressed their dislike for Trump, and a large majority of the UK population shares this sentiment.

The perceptions of Trump are so negative that even those who supported the policies of the UK leaving the EU are largely opposed to him. This is evident in the real concerns about immigrants crossing the English Channel in unseaworthy boats. The empathetic approach of pro-Brexiteers often recognizes the value of migration, while still advocating for practical, regulated solutions to ensure the welfare of the UK population.

Conclusion

In summary, pro-Brexiteers and conservatives in the UK are not uniformly against migration. Their stance often reflects a nuanced approach to immigration control and a critical view of Donald Trump. This distinction must be clarified to avoid oversimplifying complex political and social issues. As we reflect on the UK's relationship with migration and governance, it is crucial to recognize the diversity of opinions within pro-Brexiteer communities.