In Trump’s Fantasy Politics, He Can Accomplish Anything – But…

Donald Trump’s new presidency raises confusion with its blend of political fantasy and stark realities. His promises during his second term suggest he can achieve anything, despite the challenges ahead. As opponents assess how to respond, they must consider Trump’s mix of support while noting the practical limits of his power, especially as future elections approach.

Donald Trump’s new presidency has left many confused and disoriented. While explanations often point to his frenetic activity, disdain for traditions, and the blatant undermining of American democratic values, these have been consistent across both his terms. Even his habit of scapegoating immigrants and his appeal to right-wing sentiments are not new features. Yet, his second term still surprises both critics and those who are more neutral.

A key factor contributing to the confusion is that Trump’s presidency seems paradoxical—an extraordinary political fantasy, coinciding with stark realities about America. He promises that in the remaining four years, he can achieve whatever he sets his mind to—even as he approaches his 80s. His inauguration phrase that we stand on the brink of “the four greatest years in American history” captures this quite well.

The Trump fantasy includes beliefs like America can disregard climate issues and impose heavy tariffs without negative consequences. His repeated fabrications seem designed to create new realities, offering solutions in an anti-political age. However, the first days of his second term have shed light on alarming truths about the US. For instance, its alliances are not as unshakeable as assumed, and its corporate giants seem willing to support authoritarianism if profits are secure.

For those opposed to Trump, the mixture of fantasy and reality within his base is deeply unsettling. His support stems, in part, from a desire to restore old norms of male dominance, which, while rooted in fantasy, underscores a significant political bloc in America. Further, his climate policies may appear nonsensical with fires raging across the country, but they reflect a troubling reality—any real response to climate change would disrupt the lifestyles of his wealthy supporters.

As opponents of Trump try to regain their footing, some may do so by simply waiting for his energetic executive actions to lose momentum. A reversal of a government grant freeze hinted at a change in effectiveness. Voters, including some Trump backers, are bound to realise that issuing broad decrees does not equate to solving America’s problems.

It may also be essential for voters to recognise that while Trump offers attractive fantasies, they are often impractical. American history shows a string of Republican presidents making grand, unattainable promises, like Reagan’s impervious “Star Wars” programme or Bush’s ill-fated invasion of Iraq, their repercussions still resonate today. It’s a cautionary tale that current leaders would do well to heed.

Recent election results show Trump won the popular vote last year by a slim margin, only 1.5%. Despite this, both sides behave as though he possesses an unassailable mandate. His party holds precarious majorities in Congress; if he disappoints a mere fraction of voters, those majorities could vanish post-2026 elections.

Though Trump appears enormously powerful right now, it’s important to remember he will eventually transform into just another incumbent president, in an environment that generally favours anti-incumbents. As such, the true challenge ahead may not be his hold on the conversation, which could weaken, but the extent of his influence over American governance.

Original Source: www.theguardian.com