Donald Trump has surprisingly won a second term as US President, despite numerous controversies and legal problems. His victory signals a profound change in America’s political landscape.Trump’s agenda includes:
- Introduction of wide-ranging import tariffs
- Initiation of mass deportations
- Rollback of climate protection regulations
- Tougher stance against dissent
Critics warn that these plans could endanger the fundamental pillars of American democracy.Possible concerning developments in his second term:
- Expansion of presidential power in constitutionally questionable ways
- Appointment of loyalists to key government positions
- Potential suppression of opposition voices
- Pardons for Capitol riot participants, which could be seen as legitimizing political violence
Trump’s first term (2017-2021) was already marked by controversial measures:
- Tax cuts that mainly benefited the wealthy
- Appointment of conservative judges to the Supreme Court
- Trade conflicts with negative economic consequences
- Strict immigration policy, often criticized as inhumane
- Withdrawal from important international agreements
- Two impeachment proceedings
- Heavily criticized COVID-19 response
- Contestation of the 2020 election results, leading to the Capitol riot
Many experts see Trump’s re-election as a serious threat to American democracy and fear a turn towards autocratic tendencies. His rhetoric, often criticized as divisive and xenophobic, has further intensified political polarization in the country.
Republican Values in Contrast to Trump
Trump’s renewed victory presents the Republican Party with an ideological dilemma. Traditionally, the GOP stood for fiscal conservatism, strong national security, personal responsibility, and moral integrity. However, Trump’s character and background stand in stark contrast to these values. His numerous legal problems, including convictions for fraud and sexual assault, his open disregard for democratic norms, and his impulsive, often perceived as immoral rhetoric contradict the traditional Republican ethos. Nevertheless, the party has largely embraced Trump, which many observers see as a betrayal of its core principles. This development shows how much Trump has reshaped the party and raises questions about the future direction of the Republicans.Sources:
