Dear Editor,

I’m often asked in conversation for thoughts on what is happening in the USA under President Donald Trump. His numerous executive orders and policies seem shocking to some. But I don’t have much to say, except that Trump is doing exactly what he said he would, and as a leader he is delivering expeditiously on campaign promises.

Americans voted, and Trump won the national vote decisively, along with control of the US House and Senate. In a democracy we respect the voice of the majority even as it forces us to listen and perhaps question our stance on certain topics. Trump campaigned strongly on anti-immigration and securing US borders, and he spoke about the ‘wokeness’ of the left, who for decades pushed ideas of social equality and inclusion into public policy. Central to his campaign was the ‘America First’ theme to grow the economy and build wealth for people. Most governments aim to improve efficiency. The central theme of conservatives is to have a leaner government, with less spending.

Deporting illegals is not new, but maybe borders needed to be more secure as illegals can cause social, political, and economic problems in any country. Maybe America, a global leader, was spending too much outside, ignoring the cries of its own citizens — many live in poverty and without basic needs or health care.

During Trump’s first term he was erratic, impulsive, and unhinged. Now we know what to expect, even if it drives fear and uncertainty. The termination of those who investigated him and built cases against him was also not unexpected. The freeze on hiring and funding to many programmes, local and international, as well as withdrawal from international organisations, such as the World Health Organization, was not surprising either.

It is expected that many of Trump’s polices will result in court cases, blocking some temporarily or permanently. We have also heard from Trump supporters who now complain that their livelihood is being affected.

It was interesting to see some of the world’s richest men front and centre at Trump’s inauguration. Some were reluctant to publicly endorse Trump in advance, even if there were subtle signs. These men control major communication platforms and have positions with global influence, one in particular is said to donate to right-wing conservative parties around the world.

Even First Lady Melania Trump has signalled that this time around it will not be business as usual, she will do things on her terms and not necessarily based on tradition. She hinted that she will not be a permanent fixture in the White House but will come and go as she pleases. This time Trump does not have any close family among his top executives who otherwise might provide some checks and balances. He is surrounded by loyalists who might not necessarily be qualified but can be trusted to execute his agenda without question or concern.

Even before the election Trump suggested that if people voted for him they might never have to vote again, and we have no reason not to believe him.

Many of his supporters are surprised he is moving so fast in his first month in office. As Trump moves to terminate diversity, equity, and inclusion programmes within government, some companies are following suit, scaling back on internal programmes, while others remain determined to continue, noting the benefits of equity and inclusion in the work place.

Legal immigrants, citizens, and visitors to the USA, especially people of colour, also fear they could be targeted by the mass immigration crackdown. I’ve seen people online saying they voted for Trump but now regret it — weren’t they listening to the message? Some with businesses are affected, because employees won’t return to work out of fear of being deported. And even the stock markets are reacting as Trump pushes tarrifs on allies, with inflation and recession expected to follow.

This is the reality of the new America, but Americans voted, and they were heard loud and clear.

P Chin

chin_p@yahoo.com