On June 28th, the Associated Press released an article that highlighted claims comparing Trump to a monarch. These claims pointed to Trump’s partisan and self-focused plans while in the White House. For example, many Democrats such as House Rep. Maxine Dexter felt that Trump was performing shady activities with money for the bi-partisan “America250” by funneling it into a conservative “Freedom 250” powered partly by the Christian, MAGA-supporting Hillsdale College. Additionally, they point to other actions – such as his earlier demolition of the White House in order to create a ballroom – as very vain and financially irresponsible. To determine a proper stance on the matter, a broad review of Trump’s actions in office must be conducted.
During Trump’s second term, compared to other executive orders, foreign policy orders dominated. Of these, many involved actions against the illicit drug trade through placing tariffs on warehouse imports, and others involved designating terrorist organizations. Trump’s foreign policies overwhelmingly reflect conservative fears against drugs and crime from previous presidencies such as that of Richard Nixon. Only now, there is an increased emphasis on terrorism, though this has arguably been a prevalent governmental undertone since 9/11. Trump’s actions align with the conservative agenda, and this is just one example of that. In environmental actions, Trump’s policies have primarily involved removing environmental safeguards to industrialism. The threat of these policies is not unanimous among viewers and his actions indeed reflect partisan goals (as most presidents’ do).
What is unusual about Trump’s White House actions is his demeanor, not his policy. Trump has on multiple occasions posted to Truth Social (his conservative-powered social media app) in all capital, emotionally charged modes. Additionally, his sloppy uploading of AI images such as the infamous image of himself as Jesus healing a man arguably decreased public trust. While his executive actions are clear, his personal replies to global events create a shaky ground for Americans to stand on.
Naturally, when reviewing his financial and ethical decisions we see a similar view. From him calling a female reporter a pig, to him erecting his own name on the Kennedy Center (which by a court ruling he quickly had to remove), to stating that there would be a Trump Rally on July 4th, our nation’s independence day, at the National Mall. Together, these actions put a bad taste in the mouths of non-MAGA Americans.
So is America becoming a Monarchy? Not exactly. However, the claims on Trump’s vain character stand loudly – the very same ones that continue to bring his approval rates further down. This calls into question whether presidential behavior is just as important as their governmental success.
