Why Donald Trump’s Second Term is Making Him More Powerful Than Ever?

Donald Trump’s recent election victory has reinforced his stature in American politics, marking a unique achievement for the Republican Party. This election was particularly historic, as Trump won both the Electoral College and the popular vote, securing a six-percent lead over his opponent, Kamala Harris. This dual victory is noteworthy because it represents the first time since George W. Bush’s 2004 win that a Republican candidate also claimed the popular vote, providing Trump with a broad mandate from the American electorate. This stands in stark contrast to his 2016 victory, where he lost the popular vote to Hillary Clinton.

Despite various legal battles, controversial statements, and his alleged role in the Capitol events of 2020, Trump succeeded in rallying a significant portion of the American population behind him. His ability to regain public trust amid complex circumstances underscores his resilience and influence, solidifying his position as a globally recognized leader. His second term has not only amplified his power domestically but also redefined Republican strategies for engaging with an increasingly diverse electorate.

Trump’s reelection also points to shifting demographics within the United States, a trend that became evident through his rising popularity among minority communities. Notably, Trump gained support among Black and Latino voters, while the Democratic Party found more traction among white, particularly older, voters. Trump’s strategic outreach in ethnically diverse areas paid off, with an average seven-point increase in counties with higher minority populations. Meanwhile, he saw a smaller two-point increase in predominantly white counties, reflecting his appeal in more multicultural communities.

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One of the most striking examples of this demographic shift occurred in Miami-Dade County, Florida, a historically Democratic stronghold with a predominantly Latino population. Trump’s 2016 defeat by a 30-point margin transformed into a notable victory, indicating a broader trend of increased Latino support. Additionally, Trump gained ground in North Carolina, specifically in counties like Nash, where a significant Black population resides. This support from traditionally Democratic voters signals changing political dynamics that are reshaping the landscape of American elections.

Trump’s influence extends beyond voter demographics; it is also evident in his solidified control over the Supreme Court. With a 6-3 conservative majority, the Court reflects Trump’s impact on the judiciary through his appointments of Justices Neil Gorsuch, Brett Kavanaugh, and Amy Coney Barrett. These justices’ relatively young ages mean their influence could extend for decades, shaping American law and policy on issues such as gun rights, religious liberties, and reproductive rights. The Supreme Court’s current composition ensures a conservative lean, granting Trump and the Republican Party considerable leverage over judicial decisions.

Adding to this power, a recent Supreme Court ruling has granted broad immunity to U.S. presidents for official actions, a legal precedent that may benefit Trump in his second term. Although Trump has faced two impeachment trials, his return to office and the unwavering support of Senate Republicans have fortified his standing. This loyalty from his party has allowed him to sidestep numerous legal challenges, presenting an image of a leader largely immune to the conventional constraints that typically bind a president.

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Legal proceedings concerning Trump may also face delays or complications due to his current position. Federal cases surrounding his actions in the 2020 election and his handling of classified documents may be paused, in line with policies that limit prosecuting sitting presidents. Similarly, state-level cases, including a prominent case in Georgia and his previous conviction in New York, may experience setbacks or prolonged litigation, emphasizing the legal complexities that come with his presidency.

Trump’s admiration for international figures known for consolidating power, such as Vladimir Putin of Russia and Xi Jinping of China, has drawn considerable scrutiny. Trump has openly praised these leaders’ authoritative styles, often remarking on the effectiveness of strong leadership. This admiration has raised concerns about Trump’s own approach to governance, especially as he seeks to implement policies that prioritize executive control. His second-term policies, including extensive deportations and strict border measures, mirror his commitment to a robust and direct style of governance that some view as aligning with a more centralized approach to power.

Further reflecting his assertive style, Trump has also expressed a willingness to pardon high-profile individuals convicted of serious crimes. For instance, former FTX co-founder Ryan Salame, sentenced for cryptocurrency-related fraud, has expressed optimism about receiving a pardon from Trump. This follows previous pardons granted by Trump to individuals like Anthony Levandowski, convicted of stealing trade secrets, and Gregory Reyes, fined for securities fraud. These pardons, contrasting with the limited pardons issued by his predecessor Joe Biden, suggest Trump’s inclination to extend clemency more broadly.

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Trump’s policy agenda for his second term covers several critical areas, including reshaping the federal bureaucracy, reforming healthcare, and revising educational policies. He has also proposed removing civil service protections to appoint loyalists to key positions, which could further centralize executive authority. His plans to complete the U.S.-Mexico border wall and to implement extensive deportation measures align with his long-standing commitment to stringent immigration policies. On trade, Trump has signalled intentions to impose tariffs on foreign goods and gradually eliminate imports from China, aligning with global trends that emphasize economic self-reliance.

Whether Trump will achieve his policy goals largely depends on the composition of Congress. With Republican control confirmed in the Senate, Trump’s agenda could advance swiftly if Republicans also secure the House majority. However, if Democrats retain the House, Trump may face resistance that could slow his policy initiatives, necessitating compromise to pass legislation. Although he wields the power of veto, passing significant laws without bipartisan support could prove challenging, as Congress retains the ability to override a presidential veto with a two-thirds majority in both chambers.

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In his second term, Donald Trump has emerged as a uniquely influential figure, leveraging both political support and structural advantages to implement his vision. Through strategic outreach, judicial appointments, and policy shifts, he has not only consolidated power but also redefined what it means to lead the country in an era of rapidly changing social and political dynamics.

Reference: MoneyControl