This is, beyond doubt, a strange presidential election. People are trying out more extreme candidates than they have previously. At least than they have in the recent past.
Is this a rejection of something? I think so. But what?
Here are some of the things that I don't think it is.
A rejection of the two previous presidencies. Most folks reject Bush, but Obama has plenty of support among Democrats.
A rejection of moderation. I don't think so. The issues folks are focussed on are the extremes of the status quo. Extreme inaction over immigration. Extreme concentration of wealth. Rigging of the game.
I think the problem folks have is with the way the system works and doesn't work. It's not a left-right issue. It's a money versus freedom issue. The people of the US are expressing a desire for major change and the government structure isn't delivering it. Why? Because vested interests across the board are resisting it and winning.
Folks tried to overturn the applecart by electing the last guy. He couldn't do it. Now they are inviting in the guys with sharp elbows who really mean business.
It would have been easier to do things by evolution. But revolution happens when evolution is frustrated.