Has Trump’s Presidency Changed Global Perspectives on American Values?
As an international citizen, seeing the political landscape evolve under President Trump has undoubtedly influenced opinions on the United States, a country I once held in high regard for its constitutional integrity and societal values.
Breaking Down Barriers: The Impact of Constitutional Erosion
The Constitution of the United States, a foundational document that safeguards the rights and freedoms of its citizens, is often thought to be the cornerstone of American society. Yet, over the past four years, a significant portion of the American public, including the President himself, has exhibited a troubling disregard for its principles. This erosion is not without consequence, as evidenced by the recent covid-related deaths.
According to recent data, nearly 10,300 Americans have lost their lives to the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) yesterday alone. What is perhaps even more alarming is the ongoing comparison with other nations, such as Germany, where strict adherence to WHO guidelines and government policies have demonstrably reduced the excess fatalities attributable to the pandemic. This stark contrast raises serious questions about the effectiveness of policies and the willingness of certain leaders to prioritize public health.
The Complicated Relationship with the Constitution
For many, the Constitution is a sacred document, embodying the foundational values of a free and just society. The Pledge of Allegiance, a daily affirmation of loyalty, is seen as a pledge not just to a flag, but to the shared principles of justice, equality, and liberty. However, as the past few years have shown, the fidelity to these values has been increasingly challenged.
The democratic system presupposes that leaders, regardless of their party or ideology, will respect and uphold the Constitution. Unfortunately, this belief is no longer shared by a significant portion of the American public. In a recent study, it was observed that President Trump and his supporters have frequently ignored or disregarded constitutional readings, orders, and interpretations of legislation. This disregard has been compounded by the lack of accountability from media and citizens alike, who have shown a disturbing willingness to overlook these violations, often under the guise of protecting the president's authority.
The Fragmentation of American Society
The societal divide has reached unprecedented levels. Friends, family, neighbors, and coworkers have found themselves polarized, their alliances and relationships tested by the political rhetoric and actions of the current administration. Some groups vehemently support the president's agenda, while others are often silenced or dismissed as "fake news" and "alternative facts."
The repetitive nature of the president's falsehoods has created a new normal where outrageous conspiracies and unfounded claims are regrettably seen as plausible. The accountability mechanisms that were once relied upon to correct misinformation and foster a culture of truth are now largely inoperative. This has led to a population that is not just uneducated but willfully ignorant, living in denial of the very policies intended to protect them.
Consequences of Constitutional Crisis
The culmination of these failures in leadership and engagement could mark a constitutional crisis. If the political divide cannot be resolved through democratic means, the President might resort to unconstitutional actions. For instance, declaring himself president for an additional term, either four or even twelve years, would be a direct affront to the constitutional process. Moreover, any peaceful protests could be met with military force, potentially leading to a full-fledged civil war.
Unfortunately, a significant portion of the population does not fully understand or respect the Constitution, which mirrors the subtle rise of authoritarian figures in history, such as Mussolini and Hitler. Their rise to power was a slow and insidious process, built on the erosion of democratic norms and the subversion of constitutional principles.
The 2020 election is more than a contest of politics; it represents a fight for the soul of the nation. It is a moment where global observers alike must pay attention, as the direction of the United States could have far-reaching implications beyond its borders. Only through a renewed commitment to constitutional values and a robust civil society can we hope to avert a constitutional crisis and preserve the democratic ideals that have made the United States a beacon of freedom and justice.