Opinion | MAGA: A difficult task for Trump

By He Liangliang

Republican candidate Trump is set to become the next President of the United States, which will have profound implications for both America and the world. However, a review of his domestic and foreign policy proposals reveals that, despite his slogan to make America "great again," he has actually intensified social divisions at home, isolated the US internationally, and accelerated the decline of America as a superpower, making the goal of "greatness" difficult to achieve.

Trump's resurgence can be traced back to Obama's election in 2008. At that time, the US faced a financial crisis, and Obama's campaign slogan of "change" resonated with many voters. During his presidency, Obama implemented a series of policies aimed at supporting marginalized groups, particularly African Americans, which changed American society to some extent. Historically, the emergence of a Black president was a significant shift from the long-standing control of America by white Christians, causing anxiety among white voters. This laid the groundwork for Trump's unexpected victory in 2016.

Increasingly Tense Bipartisan Divisions

Trump's first term clearly demonstrated his governing style—boisterous rhetoric, unconventional approaches, and political bargaining—along with his ideological stance of trade protectionism and isolationism. Following his re-election, it is expected that these themes will manifest in both domestic and foreign policies.

Domestically, during the election, politicians from both parties have continuously stoked populist sentiments, emphasizing that the other's victory would threaten their beliefs, values, and material interests, leading to mutual animosity among the public. Trump and his supporters have incited hatred and suppressed dissent, often resorting to radical rhetoric and inciting violence. While Trump promotes the idea of "making America great again," his threats to withdraw from various international agreements and UN agencies will ultimately isolate the US on the global stage.

Some analysts argue that the current division in America is composed of three forces:

1. Economic Inequality: The widening wealth gap has deepened divisions among various classes and ethnic groups, leading to severe class entrenchment and low levels of intergenerational mobility. Recent protests in the US reflect the anger of the lower classes against racial discrimination, class stagnation, and wealth disparity.

2. Racial Tensions: The issue of illegal immigration is a concentrated reflection of America's socioeconomic challenges. During Biden's presidency, measures to control the US-Mexico border were lifted, resulting in a significant influx of illegal immigrants. It is estimated that there are over 15 million registered illegal immigrants in the US, making up about 4% of the total population of 330 million. While illegal immigrants help maintain a stable population and meet labor demands in agriculture and manufacturing, their presence has also led to serious social issues and security concerns in some areas. Trump is likely to intensify efforts to crack down on illegal immigration, which will undoubtedly provoke backlash from minority communities.

3. Sharp Value Conflicts: There is a growing divide over values, particularly regarding issues like abortion rights and same-sex marriage. Trump’s alignment with the strong traditional base of the Christian community in the US will likely lead to more conservative policies on these issues, further splitting American society and intensifying tensions between the left and right.

Potential Erosion of the Dollar's Status as the World Currency

On the international front, Trump's favorite tactic of imposing tariffs will likely re-emerge. However, tariffs are a double-edged sword; other countries will respond with their own tariffs on American goods. While the intention may be to harm others, the US risks self-inflicted economic damage, potentially leading to a trade war. Trump's threats to impose tariffs on imported goods may please domestic producers, but the increased costs of imported consumer goods and machinery will ultimately fall on American consumers. His "fortress America" approach disrupts global trade patterns and supply chains, which could fundamentally weaken the dollar's position as the world currency.

In terms of international strategy and diplomacy, countries have already experienced Trump's unconventional tactics during his previous term, and they are likely better prepared for how to respond to him now. Therefore, his regressive policies may result in America facing widespread alienation, hastening its decline as a superpower.

As for Trump's claims that his administration will divide the friendship between China and Russia, it is highly unlikely that he can achieve this. The comprehensive strategic partnership between China and Russia is based on historical logic and practical needs, representing a true, mutually beneficial relationship between the two major powers. This relationship cannot be easily undermined by Trump. China is not afraid of Trump and has experience dealing with him, believing it can navigate through the challenges with composure.

(Source: Wen Wei Po)

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