The American presidential election is a chance for the country to reflect on its identity, values, and frustrations. This time, more voters backed Donald Trump, giving him a sweeping victory in key states.
Trump won for various reasons, including many Americans feeling that democracy itself was at risk. He campaigned with a dark perspective, often criticizing the state of the country and calling his opponent derogatory names.
The election highlighted widespread discontent and divisive narratives, with Trump supporters seeing him as a voice for those feeling ignored or wronged. Despite concerns about his potential to undermine democracy, many voters were drawn to his promise of drastic change, even as they worried about his authoritarian tendencies.
Throughout his campaign, Trump painted the U.S. economy as weak and the border as a major issue, despite evidence to the contrary. His use of dramatic language resonated with voters who felt left behind.
This election made Trump only the second president in U.S. history to serve non-consecutive terms. His victory shows his skill in tapping into voter emotions, especially for those feeling marginalized.
Trump has openly questioned core elements of democracy, even suggesting the end of certain constitutional rules, though he only mentioned this once. However, he repeatedly vowed to disrupt longstanding democratic norms, promising to follow through on his bold campaign promises.
In his rallies, Trump pledged to use his power to go after political opponents and hinted at using military force domestically. He also wants to deport large numbers of immigrants, potentially using military resources.
Driven by frustration over his 2020 loss, some of Trump’s allies have already altered state voting procedures. Under Trump’s administration, more changes could follow.
Another of Trump’s targets is the civil service, often referring to it as the “deep state.” He wants more control over federal workers and plans to remove those he sees as obstructive, aiming to have more loyal employees.
Though Trump’s plans challenge democratic norms, he won the election fairly, defeating Kamala Harris, the Democratic vice-presidential candidate. Political experts, like scandal-management expert Eric Dezenhall, note Trump’s theme of vengeance as a key to his appeal.
Trump hinted at ruling as a “dictator for a day” to crack down on crime, though his campaign claimed he wasn’t serious. Trump’s party, the Republicans, now control the Senate, giving him more power to appoint loyalists to government roles.
Historians like Cal Jillson see Trump’s leadership as divisive and potentially damaging to both U.S. foreign and domestic policy. From the left, Bernie Sanders criticized the Democratic Party for failing to support working people, which he believes led to its loss of their support.
Trump, however, argues that he intends to restore democracy. He and his supporters view the defiance of military and government leaders during his first term as undemocratic, especially when executive orders bypass Congress.
However, his approach is rooted in the debunked claim of a stolen 2020 election. Trump plans to pardon some Capitol riot participants and possibly dismiss legal cases against him.
The Supreme Court, which now leans conservative, might limit Trump’s presidential power, but its stance remains to be fully tested. Control of the House is still undecided, affecting Trump’s ability to pass his agenda.
Trump’s win reflects a public dissatisfied with America’s direction. Young voters, many of whom supported him this time, were especially eager for radical change, which, by Trump’s own promises, is exactly what they’ll get.