Unclear whether Trump has conducted a realistic SWOT analysis for the USA: America First policy

By N.S. Venkataraman*
It is an indisputable fact that the USA has remained a superpower for several decades and continues to hold that position. This dominance is attributed to its vast landmass, abundant natural resources—including crude oil and natural gas—a robust agricultural base, and remarkable achievements in science and technology.
The USA’s success has also been facilitated by its willingness to welcome talented individuals from across the globe. Even today, people from various countries aspire to migrate to the USA, attracted by the freedom it offers, its proactive work culture, a liberal democratic setup, and societal affluence.
While the USA has its share of shortcomings, its positive attributes are overwhelming. Other nations, such as Russia and China, may have similar resources and advantages, but the USA has uniquely harnessed its strengths for the country's benefit.
This is why US presidential elections are closely followed worldwide, more so than leadership changes in any other country. Even the announcements of cabinet appointments by Trump before his swearing-in as President were widely discussed globally.
Why Was Trump Overwhelmingly Voted to Power?
When Trump was re-elected as President with an overwhelming majority, many around the world were surprised. This was especially puzzling given the controversies surrounding him, including allegations of sexual assault, corruption, and the violent attack on Capitol Hill by his supporters after his defeat by Biden—a situation many believe Trump may have influenced. People began to question whether US citizens disregarded the lack of morals in their President's private and public life.
Some attribute Trump's victory to the negative votes caused by President Biden's perceived lackluster performance. Others believe Trump gained immense support due to his "America First" policy, promises to deport illegal migrants, and assurances to end conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East.
Regardless, after taking office, Trump has stayed true to his image of prioritizing his agenda, even if it disrupts others, as long as it aligns with his "America First" philosophy.
How Will the World React to Trump’s America?
Trump has made several contentious statements, such as claiming the Panama Canal should belong to the USA, suggesting Canada could be an extended US territory, and proposing a 25% tariff on imports from Canada and Mexico. He also threatened to impose a 100% tariff on BRICS nations if they launched a parallel currency to challenge the dominance of the US dollar. Additionally, he has asserted that illegal migrants would be forcibly deported. These remarks are often seen as extreme and unbalanced.
In this context, it is inevitable that countries worldwide may begin to perceive Trump as assuming that the USA has a divine right to police the world. If Trump continues to enforce his priorities globally—such as withdrawing from WHO and the Paris Climate Agreement—other nations are unlikely to remain passive. Governments may start strategizing on how to counterbalance "Trump’s America." While immediate strong measures are unlikely, this line of thinking will persist.
Countries like Russia, China, and Iran, which already despise the USA’s perceived superiority complex, and certain extremist groups might pose threats to Trump's America.
Is This Due to a Lack of SWOT Analysis?
It is unclear whether Trump has conducted a realistic Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats (SWOT) analysis for the USA. His "America First" policy appears to reflect a belief in US dominance over global affairs, but has he adequately considered the risks and mitigation strategies?
While the "America First" policy is not inherently flawed, the question remains: Should this policy come at the cost of offending other nations? Even discerning Americans may begin to ponder this. Deporting illegal migrants, for instance, is a highly sensitive issue. These individuals entered the USA due to past administrations' lack of scrutiny, and many have since become law-abiding residents. Critics may view such deportations as inhumane, particularly since some American companies rely on the low-cost labor they provide.
The "America First" policy has the potential to strengthen America’s global standing, but it should not result in "cutting off one’s nose to spite one’s face"—an act that harms both others and oneself.
---
*Trustee, Nandini Voice For The Deprived, Chennai

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