President is working on building a school while wearing work clothes

In addition to appealing to emotions, populist politicians often employ a dichotomy of “us versus them.” This framing allows them to create a clear divide between the common people and the elite, which can galvanize support. By characterizing the political establishment as corrupt or out of touch, they can position themselves as the only viable alternative. This polarization not only strengthens their base but also simplifies complex political landscapes, making it easier for voters to make decisions aligned with their feelings of frustration or anger.