Well, sure they realized trying to gut popular programs was not a vote-getter. SS, Medicare, now the ACA. They appear to be on the cusp of learning that about abortion, also.

But I think you are describing more Liz Cheney. Trump has no recognizable policies. Just rants about being persecuted, and punching people in the face (especially reporters). And implying he will seek revenge on those who wronged him.

How does that appeal to anyone who isn't filled with anger and hate? At least in 1932 you could identify the source of the anger, even if it was misplaced. (Though that was economic...devalued currency, inflation, unemployment, etc, all thanks to the Treaty of Versailles.)

Plus, Trump is the business class. He sucks at it, but he is.