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Your guide to what Trump’s second term means for Washington, business, and the world
The writer was vice-president Kamala Harris’s national security adviser
It is no secret that Donald Trump has faced criticism from Democratic foreign policy circles for his unorthodox approach to issues, lack of historical knowledge, and questionable appointments. However, one area where many Democrats begrudgingly admire Trump is his ability to challenge established norms without facing significant political repercussions.
While Democratic leaders often fear backlash when considering new approaches, Trump seems to thrive on defying convention. This was evident during his recent trip to the Middle East, where he broke tradition by visiting Saudi Arabia as his first stop, instead of a key ally in Europe or North America. Despite concerns about democracy and human rights, Trump used the platform to announce defense sales and investments in the US, a move that resonated with his domestic audience.
Trump’s approach to Israel policy has also been unconventional, with direct negotiations with Hamas, ending a bombing campaign in Yemen, and engaging in talks with Iran over a nuclear deal opposed by Israel. These actions, while controversial, demonstrate Trump’s willingness to take bold steps that previous presidents might have shied away from due to political considerations.
Another notable departure from conventional foreign policy was Trump’s decision to lift sanctions on Syria and meet with its new president, Ahmed al-Sharaa, a former jihadist with a turbulent past. While a Democratic president might have hesitated to engage with such a figure, Trump saw an opportunity to steer Syria away from its alliances with Iran and Russia.
The ongoing nuclear talks with Iran represent a significant test of Trump’s approach to foreign policy. While the outcome remains uncertain, it is clear that Trump’s ability to sell any potential agreement to his party and Congress sets him apart from his Democratic counterparts.
While Democrats may not be willing to abandon all conventions like Trump, there is a lesson to be learned from his willingness to challenge the status quo in pursuit of foreign policy goals. Confidence and authenticity resonate with the American public, even if they may not always agree with specific policies. Democrats may not have the same political flexibility as Trump, but they have more room to maneuver than they might realize.
By taking a page from Trump’s playbook and being willing to challenge conventional wisdom, Democrats can chart a more effective course in foreign policy that resonates with the American people.
