White Rural Rage: The Threat to American Democracy

Chapter 2 explores the multifaceted issues plaguing rural America, using Essex County in upstate New York as a case study. The chapter opens with an introduction to two town supervisors, Roy Holzer of Wilmington and Shaun Gilliland of Willsboro, who exemplify the challenges faced by local rural leaders. Their towns, nestled in picturesque locations, struggle with maintaining public services, fighting for revenue, and dealing with aging volunteer emergency services personnel.

Essex County, which has supported the winning presidential candidate in every election since 1996, reflects broader political trends. Despite the supervisors’ Republican affiliations and support for Trump, their daily focus remains on practical governance rather than partisan politics. They navigate issues like the potential closure of Lake Placid Memorial Hospital’s emergency room, which would significantly impact local healthcare access, especially in Wilmington. Holzer and Gillilland’s deep familial roots in their communities highlight the personal stakes involved in their leadership.

The chapter transitions to a broader discussion of rural America’s decline, characterized by population stagnation, economic decay, and shrinking healthcare resources. Many rural areas, including Essex County, face a dwindling and aging population, with young people often leaving for better opportunities elsewhere. The authors highlight that this “brain drain” exacerbates the economic struggles of rural communities, leading to business closures, unemployment, and increased dependency on government aid.