As we get to the real voting, it gets real clear that Donald Trump’s candidacy comes down to the lowest common denominator of American politics: race.

Like any great scam artist, Trump has come up with a way of putting the best face on the ugliest impulses. He first seized the stage as an anti-Obama birther. Then he attacked Mexicans. Then Muslims. And the Chinese.

Under the guise of “not being politically correct,” he gives haters a socially acceptable way to hate. And gives men permission to be sexist again.

All that ugly energy makes Trump powerful enough to take on not only the entire Republican establishment, but also the former heavyweight champion of GOP politics: Fox News.

Add to that a gift for the pithy put-down that cuts through conventional politician-speak (“low-energy,” “nasty guy,” “blood coming out of her whatever,” “anchor baby”) and you have trouble on your hands.

Since World War II, Americans have figured out a way to stop McCarthy, Wallace, Duke and their ilk.

Now it’s our turn.