Initially, experts predicted a close race, but Donald Trump emerged victorious with a significant lead.

The results of the U.S. presidential election, where Trump claimed many swing states, surprised many across the political divide who anticipated a tightly contested battle based on numerous polls suggesting a near 50-50 split.

Instead, the outcome was quite the opposite.

Now, social media platforms are buzzing, echoing debates from 2016: Were there “shy” Trump supporters whose backing remained hidden? How are they feeling about their victory? Are they relieved? Satisfied? Or perhaps still cautious despite the favorable results?

“Much like other human experiences, responses will vary among voters,” says psychotherapist Stephanie Sarkis. “It’ll be fascinating to see if people become more willing to express their vote for Trump, especially as the polarizing nature of politics intensifies. Disclosing voting choices has become more consequential due to growing societal divides.”

Why Would Voters Keep Their Support Secret?

The idea of the “secret Trump voter” is multifaceted. Mental health and sociology experts note that people’s reasons for being discreet about supporting Trump may have changed. After all, he has completed a term and is now set for a second. He has gained a foothold in mainstream culture, and his past events, including surviving an assassination attempt, have rallied considerable backing.

However, in some regions, declaring support for Trump can still present significant social risks, especially in liberal areas. This is particularly evident in large urban centers within swing states, where voters might feel safer voting for Trump anonymously rather than expressing it to their peers.

So, who exactly are these quiet supporters? The answers vary widely.

“Suburban mothers and wives represent the new shy Trump voters — they should be heard,” stated one user on X. Responding to discussions about white suburban women supporting Trump, Fox News contributor Guy Benson mentioned that “many of them were hesitant Trump voters, not disclosing their support even to their husbands, let alone to their critical liberal friends.” Another user argued that the latest shy Trump supporters are predominantly young men: “They could be the key to understanding the scale of Trump’s current win.”

In truth, shy Trump voters likely come from diverse backgrounds and motivations. Their reasons for remaining quiet about their support can vary. Some do so to avoid negative feedback from liberal neighbors, while others may genuinely struggle with their decision to vote for Trump.

Sarkis observes that for many in this situation, their “shyness” might offer a chance for self-reflection. This applies equally to reluctant Harris voters.

“Do you have a reason for feeling uneasy about the candidates?” she questions. “Are we holding back on sharing our vote because it’s our right, or is it a case of cognitive dissonance, where our values might not align with the candidate? Perhaps we don’t wish to be associated with that candidate, yet we had valid motivations for voting for them that are hard to articulate.”

Beyond personal conflicts, some individuals might avoid discussing their votes simply due to fatigue. For many Republicans and Democrats, being quiet about their voting choices isn’t an act of shame, but a response to weariness in having to defend their views.

“Many people prefer to steer clear of political discussions because of the severe polarization,” says Sarkis. “We are often surprised by who supports which candidate, and the reasons vary extensively. Beliefs, party loyalties, and much more come into play.”

Though Trump’s popularity has grown, he remains a divisive figure. Numerous people recognize the intense emotions tied to his name and choose to sidestep the topic altogether.

“Trumpism has become a kind of negative label,” says Matthew Dallek, a political historian and professor at George Washington University. “I suspect some Trump supporters may be hesitant to openly acknowledge their backing for him.”

How Are ‘Shy Trump Voters’ Feeling Now?

It’s essential to note that not all shy Trump supporters might be feeling ecstatic right now. While many could experience joy, others might share the stress and anxiety felt by their liberal counterparts. Just because the election favored them, it doesn’t automatically guarantee a bright outlook for the future.

“As humans, we struggle with uncertainty,” observes Sarkis. “There may be lingering questions about future events. There’s a difference between what Trump claims he will accomplish and what might actually take place Questions linger on both sides.”

Regardless of who they voted for, as long as the political environment remains heated, many individuals will likely remain discreet about their voting choices.