As January 20th approaches, US President Donald Trump a full year in office for his second term, a date of profound significance as it coincides with the anniversary of his official inauguration. This year has not been merely a passing phase in US political history, but rather a pivotal moment that has redefined the relationship between the executive branch and constitutional institutions.
Since his return to the White House , Washington has witnessed a flurry of executive decisions that have gone beyond traditional norms, with observers noting that Trump’s “America First” slogan has practically become “Me and America First,” reflecting the centralization of presidential decision-making and the marginalization of the traditional roles of advisors and oversight bodies.
Historical context: Unprecedented return and constitutional challenges
Trump's return to power is a rare occurrence in American history, as only one president before him (Grover Cleveland) has ever won two non-consecutive terms. This historical context gave Trump a sense of absolute popular mandate, which led him to adopt bolder policies that challenged the traditional Washington establishment.
Constitutional experts believe that the first year of the second term was marked by testing the limits of presidential powers, especially with regard to judicial appointments and protectionist economic decisions, such as the strict tariffs that affected both adversaries and allies, raising fears of long-term global trade wars.
250th anniversary of independence: The paradox of division
This period is particularly sensitive as it precedes the United States' celebrations of the 250th anniversary of its declaration of independence from the British Crown. Ironically, Trump faces accusations from his Democratic opponents and some critics of adopting a "monarchical" style of governance, one that contradicts the republican principles upon which the nation was founded.
Noah Rosenblum, a law professor at New York University, commented that the current government structure appears to be “an extension of the president’s personality,” with private interests intertwined with diplomatic decisions, raising increasing concerns about transparency and anti-corruption efforts within the current administration.
Imperial ambitions and changes in the White House
Trump's changes weren't limited to policy; they extended to the very appearance of the White House, which was adorned with gold and lavish decorations—a symbolic gesture reflecting his vision of power. The president's ambitions transcend traditional geographical boundaries, with renewed talk of expansionist desires encompassing areas like Greenland and even space ambitions related to Mars, all while he relentlessly pursues the Nobel Peace Prize as international recognition of his legitimacy.
Midterm elections: The tough test
Politically, the scene is heading toward an inevitable clash in the midterm congressional elections. Historically, the president's party often loses seats in these elections, and it appears that the Democrats are poised to exploit the sharp polarization, the high cost of living, and the controversy surrounding immigration policies to regain legislative control.
Trump is aware of the gravity of this situation, having warned his conservative allies that losing Congress could open the door to impeachment proceedings. Therefore, the president is employing a strategy of "anger economy," galvanizing his base to ensure loyalty, while preemptively casting doubt on the integrity of any election that might not go his way, reviving the narrative of voter fraud that plagued the 2020 election.
In conclusion, the first year of Trump’s second term puts the United States at a crossroads, where the coming months will determine whether American institutions are able to accommodate this style of governance, or whether the country is headed for a deeper constitutional and political crisis.
