America is not unusual in that it is trending more to the right.
Many other countries are as well.

My theory: Because we rely upon the average person to make a decision on who will lead them, we rely upon their ability to discern what is best for them.
We assume that they understand what governing and governance actually is.

We assume they understand the context that causes all of their angst: economics, world affairs, public health, justice.

They don't.

And they can only react.