How Trump’s victory reshapes US politics and the world

The 2024 US election is a multifaceted event with significant implications for the United States and the wider international world, writes ANBOUND Founder Kung Chan.

It is apparent that the campaigns on both sides featured a range of contentious strategies. While Donald Trump’s speaking style reflected his personal approach, the Democratic Party, led by Kamala Harris, used legal measures, including multiple lawsuits, and negative media portrayals. Some celebrities also endorsed Harris and criticized Trump. Despite these efforts, Trump secured a victory, often seen as a sign of public support, given his limited direct communication through social media amid widespread media scrutiny.

The real losers of this election are the Washington establishment and intellectual elites. The Democratic Party now represents America’s elite, a group solidified since the post-war era and evolved into a bureaucratic establishment. Intellectuals within this group, often seen as an "intellectual aristocracy", drive student protests and champion causes that align with their political interests. Their reasoning often mirrors that of college students, focused more on idealized political pursuits than practical outcomes. These elites tend to overlook the economic impacts of policies like climate change activism and inflation, as they operate from a detached, top-down perspective, disconnected from the concerns of working-class Americans.

Indeed, the election highlights a shift from ethnic to economic concerns. Ethnic politics, once a dominant force, no longer resonates as strongly. People, regardless of their ethnic background, come to America seeking better opportunities, including good jobs and affordable living. Voters are unlikely to support candidates solely based on race or ethnicity; instead, they prioritize economic stability, affordable goods, a good quality of life, and strong education systems. The Democratic Party's focus on identity-based appeals has overlooked these broader economic needs.

Internationally, the post-U.S. election Europe is facing fear and uncertainty, despite the change of tones of some of its leaders - Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, arguably the leader most concerned about Trump’s return, mentioned Trump’s “decisive leadership” while NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte reiterated the importance of “working together” to address the numerous challenges.

Beyond his positions on Europe and Ukraine, a key issue is Trump's call for European countries to contribute more to their own defense. The U.S. has maintained a military presence in Germany, which has helped keep Germany's debt-to-GDP ratio at 73.2%, while the U.S. national debt is at 130% of GDP. This disparity raises concerns about the financial burden the U.S. bears in supporting Europe, a dynamic also reflected in the ongoing Ukraine conflict.

As things stand, the U.S. will prioritize domestic issues over foreign policy in the near future. While concerns about Trump initiating a trade war with China persist, his trade policies are likely to target not only China but also countries like Japan, Europe, and Mexico. Early in his presidency, Trump will focus on domestic affairs, as reflected in his "20 core promises" policy agenda, most of which address U.S. internal matters. Given his low approval ratings and strong opposition in Washington, Trump's path to governance will be challenging. While a trade war with China is a potential concern, its scope is often overstated.

Domestically, American society is undergoing a shift, marking the beginning of a new era. This shift is now evident, with the exception of urban areas on the East and West Coasts, which remain Democratic. The Republican Party's growing influence, particularly in rural areas and the Rust Belt, was already visible in 2020 but was underestimated by many, including in the U.S. and abroad. By 2024, this trend culminated in a Republican sweep. These "red" regions, representing farmers and the working class, reflect a public opinion that political maneuvering cannot easily change. With this social foundation now firmly established, a new conservative mainstream is emerging, signaling the start of a new era in America.

Trumpism will continue to rise. While Trump's victory may grant him only another four years in office due to the 22nd Amendment, the widespread support across the country has solidified his legacy. As Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu described, this is "history's greatest comeback". Even after his presidency, Trump’s influence will shape American society for the next decade or more through the enduring legacy of "Trumpism." Efforts to promote this ideology will persist, with potential leaders like Vice President JD Vance poised to carry it forward.

Such an America will undoubtedly exert greater global influence, with conservative political trends gaining momentum in Europe, Asia, and beyond. This development will soon become a central topic in reports and articles worldwide.

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