We generally use the expression “Almighty” when speaking of God. But since Donald Trump considers himself to have been protected from a shooting by God, so that he would save the United States, I suppose the term applies.
I say this half-jokingly, but I am nevertheless concerned to see a political leader have such a messianic vision of himself. This lacks the humility so necessary to exercise power without becoming intoxicated with it.
Well-intentioned or not, high-level political leaders wield so much power that they risk succumbing to the temptation to abuse it. This is why we are wary of dictatorships. This is why our democratic systems provide so many checks and balances on power.
Today, the power in the hands of Donald Trump is incredibly absolute. The lack of safeguards for his action sends shivers down the spine. The situation gives the new American President so much power that he could be described as a dictator in spite of himself.
What are the guidelines that usually govern presidential power?
Parliament
Donald Trump controls the Senate and the House of Representatives. At least for two years, until the mid-term elections. In theory, even Republican elected officials could get in his way. In fact, he destroyed so many careers of Republicans who chose to stand up to him, those who are still there will follow him with rare exceptions.
L’opposition
In general, the opposition questions, criticizes, and in doing so, puts pressure on the Administration. But for the moment, Donald Trump has a Democratic Party in tatters before him. The defeat on all fronts last November left the Democrats demobilized, weakened and divided. Not a big obstacle in front of the Trump train.
-Laws and courts
This is what acts as a natural safeguard at all times: the law! In the event of abuse, the courts could get involved. Already the office of president grants a fairly exceptional immunity, Donald Trump experiences in his case a feeling of total immunity.
All his trials magically evaporated. He sexually assaulted, he tried to steal an election, he was convicted of fraud and none of that exists anymore. Man must feel completely above the law, completely sheltered from the courts.
Public opinion
A leader will sometimes avoid taking extreme actions so as not to shock public opinion. Donald Trump leaves with a base of supporters who revere him. In any case, he no longer needs the majority, he is serving his second and last term without thinking of re-election.
International pressure
It does not exist for Donald Trump. Above all, he practices isolationism from the United States, he has nothing to give a damn about other countries in the world, except when he feels like threatening them.
In short, you have a man who admires dictators and who holds exceptional powers… without ramparts, without guidelines, without serious counterweights. It’s impossible not to worry.
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