The Kinks Reflects On ‘Wannabe Dictator’ Donald Trump’s Election Win: ‘Americans Chose A Known, Obvious Fascist’

**The Kinks Reflect on Donald Trump’s 2024 Election Win: ‘Americans Chose a Known, Obvious Fascist’**

As Donald Trump secures a surprising victory in the 2024 U.S. presidential election, legendary British rock band The Kinks has once again come to the forefront, offering their candid reflections on the political landscape in America. In a new interview, Ray and Dave Davies, the core members of the band, discussed their thoughts on Trump’s return to the White House and the implications of his reelection for American democracy. The Kinks, known for their sharp social commentary and often critical reflections on society, did not hold back in their assessment of the political climate in the U.S., which they see as increasingly defined by populism and authoritarianism.

The band’s reflections come at a time when political polarization in the U.S. has reached new heights, with Trump’s 2024 victory serving as the latest flashpoint in the ongoing ideological struggle. For The Kinks, who have long addressed themes of societal unrest and disillusionment in their music, Trump’s victory represents the culmination of a broader global trend of populism, nationalism, and authoritarianism that the band has been warning about for years.

**‘A Known, Obvious Fascist’**

Ray Davies, the band’s lead singer and chief songwriter, was blunt in his assessment of Trump’s reelection. “It’s not a shock, honestly,” Ray remarked. “Americans chose a known, obvious fascist again. The things he stands for—division, fear, hate—they haven’t changed. And unfortunately, neither has the electorate’s willingness to fall for it.”

Ray’s words echo his sentiments from previous years, where he expressed alarm at the direction in which the country was heading. For the Kinks, Trump’s victory is not just the result of a charismatic populist movement, but the deepening fracture within American society. “It’s a situation where the political system has failed so many people for so long that a figure like Trump, who can manipulate people’s emotions and play on their frustrations, becomes an attractive alternative to the status quo,” Ray continued. “But the price of that is democracy itself.”

Dave Davies, the band’s guitarist and outspoken critic of social issues, agreed. “People are desperate for someone to blame, and Trump gives them a target,” he said. “It’s all smoke and mirrors. He’s not offering real solutions. He’s offering more division, more chaos. But it’s exactly what people are looking for—someone to burn it all down.”

**The Resurgence of Authoritarian Populism**

For The Kinks, Trump’s reelection is part of a troubling global trend that has seen the rise of authoritarian and populist leaders in various parts of the world, from Brazil’s Jair Bolsonaro to Hungary’s Viktor Orbán. As Ray and Dave reflect on this shift, they see a disturbing pattern: leaders who prioritize power over principle, who exploit fear and division for political gain, and who undermine democratic institutions in the name of nationalism and populism.

“I think what we’re seeing isn’t just a U.S. problem,” Ray explained. “It’s a worldwide issue. Look at what’s happening in Europe, or South America. You have leaders who are manipulating people’s anger and fear to their advantage. Trump might be the most prominent example, but he’s not alone. The system is being torn apart, piece by piece, and it’s not just America that’s suffering.”

Dave noted that Trump’s political playbook has been copied by many of these global leaders. “They all use the same tricks. They create a boogeyman, whether it’s immigrants, the media, or the ‘elite,’ and then they promise to protect the people by any means necessary,” Dave said. “The reality is, they’re just consolidating power for themselves.”

**The Role of Media and Misinformation**

One of the major themes the Kinks have returned to in their reflections on Trump’s second term is the role of the media in both elevating and enabling him. During his first term, Trump’s relationship with the media was one of constant conflict—he frequently accused the press of being “fake news,” while simultaneously dominating the airwaves with controversial statements and actions. In 2024, The Kinks argue that the media’s coverage of Trump continues to amplify his message, whether intentionally or not.

“Media today is like a circus,” Ray said. “It’s all about entertainment, all about ratings. And when Trump speaks, it’s like everyone’s hooked. Whether it’s good or bad press, it doesn’t matter. It just gives him more power.”

Dave agreed, adding that the constant stream of sensationalism has blurred the lines between fact and fiction. “It’s like the truth doesn’t matter anymore. You can say anything, and it’ll be believed,” he said. “In the 21st century, we have so much information at our fingertips, but we’ve never been so misinformed.”

For The Kinks, the erosion of truth in the media is one of the most troubling consequences of Trump’s rise. They argue that the media’s failure to hold him accountable, and to focus on his divisive rhetoric and actions, has allowed his brand of politics to thrive unchecked. “He’s been able to get away with so much because the media never truly called him out,” Ray explained. “They played into his hands.”

**Looking Ahead: A Worrying Future for Democracy**

As Trump enters his second term, The Kinks express a sense of foreboding about what lies ahead for the United States and the world. For them, the reelection of Trump is not just a political setback—it’s a sign that the democratic ideals they hold dear are under threat.

“The worrying thing is that Trump represents a shift in how people view democracy itself,” Ray said. “It’s no longer about checks and balances, about protecting freedoms. It’s about winning at all costs. And that’s dangerous. Because once you get rid of the rules, anything can happen.”

Dave added, “What’s happening in the U.S. isn’t just a political problem. It’s a cultural problem. People have stopped talking to each other, listening to each other. There’s no empathy anymore, just a desire to win, to beat the other side. And that’s what he’s tapping into.”

While The Kinks have always been a band focused on societal critique, their reflections on Trump’s victory carry a sense of urgency. They believe that if the current political trajectory continues, the world could be facing a future where authoritarianism is the norm rather than the exception.

“We’ve always tried to shine a light on the darker sides of society, and right now, that darkness is winning,” Ray said. “But it’s not too late. People have to wake up. We can’t afford to ignore what’s happening.”

As the Kinks prepare for the release of new music and reflect on their long career, they remain deeply concerned about the state of global politics. In the face of rising authoritarianism, the band’s message is clear: democracy must be defended, and the forces of division and fear must be resisted, before it’s too late.