Navigating the Ship of State: An International Perspective on Donald Trump's Leadership

As a non-American, observing the leadership of Donald Trump as he navigates the Ship of State has been a fascinating and often perplexing experience. The discussions surrounding his tenure often revolve around the effectiveness of his approach to governance compared to the time and focus he dedicates to interacting with his adversaries in the White House.

Does He Run the Country or Worry About Adversaries?

Americans might argue that the President is fully engaged in running the country, but from an external observer's perspective, there is a perception of wasted time and effort. This can be exacerbated by instances where the country's leadership seems more preoccupied with internal political battles and interpersonal rivalries than with matters of state. The recent change in Australian Prime Minister, stemming from infighting within the Liberal National Party (LNP), serves as a stark reminder of the importance of coherence and focus in leadership.

Reflections on Donald Trump

My opinions on Donald Trump have evolved over time. Initially, he was seen as an egotist, but not necessarily a racist. His capacity to work effectively, despite speaking poorly, is a quality I believe is highly valuable in leadership. He exerts a sense of toughness that resonated with his campaign promises. What is surprising, especially for an ardent liberal, is his willingness to confront the media with a discerning skepticism that I find refreshing and aligned with my own perspective on news media.
On the foreign policy front, the notion of working on Russian relations is both logical and necessary. The hypocrisy of denouncing Russia while Democratic operatives were cozying up to them is a telling point. There’s a clear discrepancy in the rhetoric and the actions of different political factions.
However, there are concerns with his approach to certain institutions such as the FBI and the military. While defending these organizations is a necessary part of leadership, an attitude that undermines them or their integrity can have serious repercussions. Similarly, an ideological stance that aligns with white nationalists and the alt-right is concerning. The notion of "good people on both sides" in recent violent events highlights the need for clear and firm leadership to prevent the normalization of extremist views.
In terms of future leadership within the Republican party, there is a hope for a more moderate and inclusive approach. Socially, my leanings are towards liberalism, but the actions of some within the liberal camp who act as thought police have turned me off from certain liberal factions. Platforms like that of Alex Jones, despite my disagreements, offer a voice to those who might otherwise be silenced, promoting a more open and diverse discourse in society.

Conclusion

Leadership, as demonstrated by Donald Trump, is not just about governing. It's about setting the right tone, defending institutions, and promoting unity. While his methods and rhetoric may draw criticism, his ability to speak truth to power and his tenacity in the face of adversity are qualities that resonate with many. The challenge for future leaders in both the Republican and Democratic camps will be to strike a balance between the visionary and the practical, the populist and the pragmatic, to ensure a strong and stable leadership for the country.