Some supporters of Donald Trump view his presidential victory as a sweeping endorsement to implement his “Make America Great Again” agenda. They are optimistic that he will tackle the important domestic and international challenges left behind by the Biden-Harris administration, which Trump has frequently criticized as responsible for a “failing nation.”
This optimism, however, warrants a closer look. Although Trump backers tout his 312-226 Electoral College win over Vice President Harris, they tend to overlook his narrow popular vote margin of just 1.5 percentage points. Such a slim lead casts doubt on the claim of a strong mandate, especially with the GOP holding only a slim majority in the House.
Trump’s presidency could blend political power with private business stakes
As a former Republican, I hope for Trump’s success for the country’s sake, yet I share the apprehension of many Americans. Neither Trump nor Harris earned my vote, and my long-term concern centers on the risk of national decline, which I fear may worsen under Trump’s leadership for several reasons.
First, a persistent clash between Trump and the Constitution seems likely. His previous term saw two impeachments, and his second term could amplify his disregard for constitutional boundaries, potentially emboldened by a Supreme Court ruling on presidential immunity. This decision, which broadly protects presidential actions, ironically coincided with America’s July 4 celebrations of independence from monarchical rule.
With a single term remaining, Trump may be incentivized to bypass norms and laws. Installing controversial Cabinet members via recess appointments could be an early move to test his constitutional limits.
Second, Trump’s extensive business entanglements remain a concern. Unlike his earlier presidency, he has made no commitment to separate himself from ventures that could benefit from his policy decisions.
Trump is set to be the first president holding a majority stake in a publicly traded company, Trump Media & Technology Group, which could present ethical challenges as it intertwines political influence and financial gain.
Additionally, Trump’s family interests in crypto platforms and longstanding foreign partnerships, including dealings with Saudi Arabia, invite scrutiny. His close relationship with figures like Elon Musk, whose companies have received government contracts, further complicates matters.
Third, Trump’s governance relies heavily on loyalty, which influences appointments and decisions. Plans for loyalty tests at the Pentagon and among military leadership could erode constitutional principles by prioritizing allegiance to the president.
Such tactics, paired with public disparagement of dissenters on platforms like Truth Social, highlight Trump’s preference for control over consensus.
Trump’s declared intent to dismantle the “deep state” represents another potential upheaval. By reshaping federal agencies through “Schedule F,” he could replace career civil servants with political allies, consolidating power and undermining the government’s impartiality.
Finally, Trump’s leadership style leans into retribution. Leveraging federal agencies to reward allies and punish critics could blur the lines between governance and vendetta. While some Americans might overlook these tactics if his policies improve economic and social conditions, the long-term implications for democracy are concerning.
Trump’s second term could redefine the presidency and government itself, potentially leaving a lasting impact on the nation and the global stage. Myra Adams, an opinion columnist, has previously contributed to two Republican presidential campaigns in 2004 and 2008.
