Donald Trump Returns to the White House: Expectations and Global Implications

The world watches with anticipation as Donald Trump is re-elected President of the United States, a historic victory that has stirred both enthusiasm and unease. With nearly 280 electoral votes, the Republican defeated Kamala Harris, becoming only the second president in U.S. history to secure a non-consecutive second term. 

While his supporters celebrate what they see as the dawn of a “golden age of America,” the international community questions the impact this shift may have on the global stage.

This new chapter in Trump’s political career has also affected his online reputation worldwide—a polarizing image that oscillates between admiration and controversy. 

The public and digital perception of his leadership has become a central topic in global conversation: Are we witnessing the start of a new era, or a return to times of conflict and polarization?

A Deeply Divided Nation: The Role of New Voters

Donald Trump’s support in the United States presidential elections has revealed a profound division within the country. 

While major cities like Philadelphia remain largely Democratic (Harris won 80% of the vote there), rural counties have become Republican strongholds. This polarization is particularly evident in the Hispanic vote and among young men, who are increasingly leaning to the right.

One phenomenon, known by experts as “Trump amnesia,” seems to have been a significant factor for this demographic. Many young voters, who were just becoming politically aware during his first term, now see Trump as a “strongman” and a defender of traditional values. 

Additionally, a rise in Latino support for Republicans has been observed, especially in states like Florida and Arizona, breaking the historical Democratic affiliation of this group.

A Marked Divide Between Genders and Communities

Regarding Kamala Harris, voters displayed a notable divide. While she secured 54% of the female vote, Trump gained the male preference, receiving considerable support among minority voters who traditionally favor the Democratic Party. 

This shift is particularly noticeable among Latino and Black voters, who unexpectedly leaned Republican this election.

As the first African-American and Asian-American woman to represent the Democratic Party, Harris encountered additional challenges tied to gender and racial bias, highlighting the obstacles that women, especially women of color, continue to face in U.S. politics.

Moreover, exit polls have shown that for most voters, the economy was the deciding factor, overshadowing concerns about Trump’s judicial history or his stance on civil rights issues like abortion. 

Voters seemed to gravitate toward Donald Trump, recalling economic stability, particularly among Latino and Black communities, who felt less impacted by inflation and living costs during his previous term.

The Weight of the Economy and Security on Voter Decisions

Harris’s campaign focused on defending democracy, reproductive rights, and social inclusion but failed to connect with the practical concerns of the average voter—particularly Latinos affected by inflationary pressures and in search of economic security. 

In contrast, Trump effectively tapped into economic discontent, promising economic restoration and strengthened border security. As a result, he won over voters who, at the end of the day, “voted with their wallets.”

Three factors were fundamental to Trump’s victory:

1. The perception of a weakened economy under the current administration, with rising inflation and unaffordable living costs.
2. An “anti-incumbent mentality,” similar to trends in other Western democracies where voters demand drastic change when expectations are unmet.
3. Growing concerns about the southern border and cultural shifts, which many voters perceive as a lack of Democratic control.

Additionally, analysts suggest that Harris’s gender may have played a role in her challenges, particularly among segments of Black and Hispanic men who might have had difficulties accepting a female candidate. 

Furthermore, Harris’s political marketing focused on issues championed by elite Latinos, such as LGBTQ+ rights and abortion, which did not resonate with the immediate concerns of the Latino working class.

What to Expect from Trump’s Second Term

Agenda 47, Trump’s new program for government, outlines his vision for the next four years and promises radical changes in immigration, economic, and foreign policy.

Among his most controversial proposals are the “largest deportation in history,” the continuation of the border wall with Mexico, and implementing a tariff system of up to 60% on Chinese imports.

He has also promised tax cuts for businesses and individuals, along with increased fossil fuel production, which could have both economic and environmental consequences worldwide.

Impact on the International Scene: Europe, Asia, and the Ukraine Conflict

Trump’s re-election has sparked mixed reactions on the global stage. 

Allied countries like Italy have celebrated his victory, while most European leaders express concern over a potential U.S. withdrawal from NATO and a distancing of transatlantic relations.

• Europe and Regional Autonomy: This change in leadership presents Europe with an opportunity to gain greater autonomy and take a stronger role in global geopolitics, despite possible tensions arising from Trump’s isolationist stance. 

However, Trump’s protectionism may pose a threat to the liberal order that the European Union defends. Uncertainty looms over how this relationship will evolve, especially if the U.S. shifts its focus to the Pacific.

• China and the Pacific: The president-elect plans to take a direct, restrictive approach toward China, seeking to limit American investments in the country and reduce reliance on Chinese goods. 

This policy could escalate the trade war initiated during his first term and impact global commerce.

• Conflict in Ukraine and the Middle East: Regarding the war in Ukraine, Trump has expressed an intent to reduce military and financial support to Kyiv, which could directly benefit Russia and weaken Ukraine’s position against Moscow. 

At the same time, Hamas has called on Trump to end aggression in Gaza, and Trump has reiterated his intent to act as a “protector of Israel,” while also calling for a “quick victory” to restore normalcy in the region.

Leader Reputations: Trump vs. Harris

The digital reputation and public perception of Trump and Harris have been central in this election. 

Trump’s figure polarizes audiences, seen by some as a symbol of U.S. economic recovery and by others as a danger to democracy, especially following the Capitol riot in 2021. 

In contrast, Harris faced criticism due to her association with the Biden administration, whose popularity plummeted due to negative perceptions surrounding inflation and economic issues.

The Big Question: Will Trump’s administration be marked by stability and growth, or by polarization and conflict both domestically and internationally? The president-elect’s ability to fulfill his promises will shape the legacy of this second term, as Americans and the world watch closely.