The White House Watch newsletter provides insights into the implications of the 2024 US election on both Washington and global affairs. The article discusses the historical tendency of absolute rulers to inflict suffering on their subjects and families, citing the Queen of Hearts from “Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland” as a symbol of monarchical caprice. Historically, rulers with unchecked power have led environments riddled with sycophancy, favoritism, and corruption—a result of arbitrary despotism.
The progression of English-speaking societies, including the US, has been marked by efforts to curtail such arbitrary authority. This endeavor dates from the Magna Carta in 1215 to the unrest during the 17th-century English Civil War and the subsequent deposition and execution of Charles I in 1649. The condemnation of the dethroned king was based on his pursuit of unbounded and tyrannical rule. Milestones like the Declaration of Independence and the ratification of the US Constitution further contributed to the battle against absolutism, as did the US Civil War, which reinforced the doctrine that no individual should wield unchecked power over another.
Present-day events in the US hold significant historical and global relevance, questioning whether the limitations on the arbitrary exertion of power will persist. Understanding the calamitous events of the 20th century highlights the importance of this issue. Adopting the rule of law and delineating the responsibilities of the judiciary and legislature are crucial to ensuring safety from despotism. Commentator Andrew Sullivan has noted that the US was founded on legal authority and reason, whereas former President Donald Trump often pursued raw power driven by personal instinct, which he argues is a direct attack on the American Republic.
The economic implications of Trump’s trade policies illustrate the dangers of his approach, with notable market volatility and retaliatory tariffs affecting the US and other countries. The resultant uncertainty and disruption, along with the significant foreign holding of US Treasuries, showcase the potential fallout from these policies. The strategic use of tariffs as an economic tool underlines a form of despotism that disrupts business and economic stability.
Trump’s trade wars underscore the chaotic impact of an unpredictable leader on global markets and the international trading system. The challenges faced by businesses, contrasted with the more stable business environment in China, reveal the complexities introduced by Trump’s policies. The perennial attraction to strongman leadership, with its inherent risks, illustrates the continuous struggle against the concentration of power. Current trade policies serve as a reminder of these dangers and underline the necessity for the US and the world to navigate and mitigate such instability.