Staff Reports
As former President Donald Trump continues to leave a lasting impact on American politics, it seems like some politicians and commentators can’t stop singing his praises. As he prepares to welcome Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to the White House in a show of international diplomacy, some might argue that it’s classic Trump — high profile, high stakes, and undoubtedly unforgettable. It’s always interesting to see who Trump will have buzzing on the global stage next.
Let’s take a trip down memory lane, shall we? Ten years ago this month, Trump made quite a splash in Iowa by offering free helicopter rides to kids across the street from the Iowa State Fair. Naturally, fair officials weren’t too thrilled and told him to take a hike, to which Trump responded in true Trump fashion by renting out a cornfield just to make it happen. Now, this helicopter ride story seems like a pivotal moment in what some might call Trump’s mythical ascent to power. From such humble beginnings, offering cornfield helicopter adventures, to drawing up American foreign policy — quite the leap, wouldn’t you say?
Ever since he stepped onto the political stage, Trump has been compared to a whirlwind, a force of nature that leaves analysts struggling to catch up. Some argue that in 24 hours, Trump has managed to accomplish more than President Biden has in four years. Whether it’s passing bills no one else could or bringing some showbiz pizzazz to politics, Trump is seen by many of his admirers as the ultimate political showman. And who can forget the performances packed with flare and fireworks? That’s the spirit of Trump’s presidency, they might say — bold, brash, and never backing down from a challenge.
This begs the million-dollar question: What’s the secret sauce that Trump has that makes him such an unstoppable force? For many in his party, it’s his refusal to be daunted by seemingly insurmountable challenges and his knack for transforming once-Democratic issues into his signature accomplishments. Be it taking on the border, reshaping trade deals, or creating dialogue in the Middle East, Trump’s presidency could well be an instructional guide in tackling big problems head-on with his own particular brand of bravado.
Of course, there’s an undercurrent of anxiety for some Republicans, too. What happens when this one-man hurricane steps back? Could the excitement and energy that Trump infuses into the GOP vanish? It’s a question that looms large. Yet, the belief is Trump has planted the seeds of a movement rooted in the America First ideology. With followers that include former opponents who’ve not only come around to embrace his vision but are now torchbearers of his cause, Trump’s influence may well extend far beyond his tenure, leaving a legacy that reshapes the political landscape for years to come.
