The Fragile Firewall: Can a Handful of Voices Still Restrain Trump?
Photo: FABRICE COFFRINI / AFP / NTB
A small number of lawmakers in Washington could potentially halt Donald
Trump, according to American journalist and author Anne Applebaum. But
the question remains: will fear or political calculation ultimately
prevail?
The Erosion of Institutional Courage
Applebaum, a frequent commentator on US politics and a columnist for
The Atlantic, recently spoke at a business conference in Oslo,
Norway. Her observations paint a concerning picture of a political
climate increasingly defined by intimidation and self-preservation.
“Right now, there’s a lot of talk, but little action in Washington,
among senators and in the House of Representatives. So we don’t yet
know when enough is enough, and the elected officials decide to block
the president,” she stated.
This hesitancy isn’t simply about political disagreement; it’s rooted
in a palpable fear. Applebaum highlights the unprecedented level of
threats directed at lawmakers, extending beyond professional
criticism to encompass personal attacks and intimidation of their
families. This climate of fear, she argues, is a new phenomenon in
American politics.
Trump’s Grip on Power: Beyond Policy
Applebaum suggests that Trump’s obsession with accolades, particularly
the Nobel Peace Prize, stems from a deep-seated need for validation.
This isn’t merely about ego; it’s about reinforcing a narrative of
success and legitimacy. The recent, unusual direct communication
with Norway’s Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre regarding the prize
underscores this point.
Pro Tip:Understanding a leader’s motivations beyond policy is crucial for
predicting their actions. In Trump’s case, the pursuit of
recognition appears to be a driving force.
Europe’s Shifting Sands: Independence from US Influence
Beyond domestic concerns, Applebaum points to a growing trend of
European independence from the United States. The recent EU-India
trade agreement is a prime example. For years, India was resistant
to such deals. However, Trump’s trade policies and unpredictable
diplomacy created an opening for Europe to forge a new path.
“Europe can only strengthen itself if they take the initiative
themselves and build new partnerships,” Applebaum explained. “Whether
it’s with South America, India, or China, building their own
relationships with the world around them is obvious.”
The Military’s Steadfastness: A Rare Constant
Despite Trump’s often-critical stance towards NATO and international
alliances, Applebaum notes a remarkable consistency within the US
military establishment.
“The high-ranking military have been cooperating with allies for 40
years, throughout their careers. And no one has asked them to stop,”
she stated. This enduring commitment to multilateralism provides a
degree of stability amidst the political turbulence.
The Future of American Democracy: A Critical Juncture
The situation presents a critical juncture for American democracy.
The willingness of a small number of individuals to stand up to
pressure, coupled with the resilience of established institutions
like the military, may be the only thing preventing further erosion
of democratic norms.
Did you know?:The number of lawmakers willing to publicly oppose a president
within their own party has steadily declined in recent decades,
reflecting a growing trend of partisan polarization.
FAQ: Navigating the Current Political Landscape
-
What is the biggest obstacle to holding Trump accountable?
Fear and political self-preservation among lawmakers. -
Is Europe actively distancing itself from the US?
Yes, through initiatives like the EU-India trade agreement, Europe
is demonstrating a willingness to pursue independent partnerships. -
Why is the US military still committed to alliances despite Trump’s criticism?
Long-standing relationships and a recognition of the strategic
importance of cooperation. -
What role does public opinion play in this situation?
Public pressure can influence lawmakers, but the current climate of
polarization makes it difficult to achieve broad consensus.
Explore further insights into the evolving geopolitical landscape by
reading our article on The Rise of Multipolarity.
What are your thoughts on the current state of American politics?
Share your perspective in the comments below!
