Trumpism: Its Domestic and International Implications

Trumpism refers to the political ideology, style, and policy agenda associated with the 45th President of the United States, Donald J. Trump (2017-2021). While Trump himself has not produced a formal manifesto, observers and scholars have identified several recurring themes and characteristics that fall under the umbrella of Trumpism.

Trumpism draws heavily on populist rhetoric that pits a purportedly “forgotten” or “silent” majority against an establishment elite. It is characterized by combative language, confrontational style, and an outsider persona that rejects traditional political norms. Placing strong emphasis on asserting U.S. interests and sovereignty, Trumpism is often framed as defending American workers against perceived threats from foreign competitors and global institutions. This ideology focuses on restrictive immigration policies and heightened border security relying on incendiary rhetoric linking immigration to crime, terrorism, and job competition for American workers.

Trump has expressed his preference for bilateral deals and unilateral action over complex multinational frameworks. He has been relentless in his criticism of bodies such as the World Trade Organization (WTO), World Health Organization (WHO), and the United Nations for perceived bias or inefficiency. Trump places heavy reliance on charismatic appeal, social media communication, and direct engagement with a loyal base. He tends to bypass traditional media channels and political brokers.

While not a monolithic doctrine, these interwoven themes shape the core of Trumpism and have significantly influenced the Republican Party, U.S. policy debates, and aspects of global politics since 2016.

The rise of Trumpism must be understood against the backdrop of shifting political, economic, and social currents in the United States. The economic dislocation characterized by the post-2008 financial crisis anxiety and frustrations with rising income inequality and the loss of manufacturing jobs in Rust Belt states, lead many workers to feel neglected by establishment politicians.

Rapid demographic and cultural changes, including increased diversity and changing social norms, fueled a sense of displacement among some Americans. There were concerns about national identity, often linked to debates on immigration.

Rising partisan divisions in Washington, alongside growing distrust of mainstream media and political elites, formed fertile ground for an outsider candidate. Technological changes in media, such as social networks, enabled new modes of political communication and mobilization. Global resurgence of populist leaders who reject traditional political elites and multilateralism, created a broader, international trend in which Trumpism found resonance.

Domestically, Trumpism deepened partisan divides. The Republican Party underwent a transformation as many established conservative orthodoxy positions (e.g., free trade, fiscal austerity) shifted. Traditional pro-trade Republicans were sidelined in favor of a protectionist, nationalist stance. Within the GOP, loyalty to Donald Trump often became a litmus test, overshadowing policy disagreements. Many who criticized him faced political backlash. Trump’s confrontational style and frequent use of social media shaped the legislative agenda and communications strategies. Governing by executive order and public pressure became more common.

Restrictive policies included the travel ban targeting predominantly Muslim countries, separation of families at the southern border, and tightened asylum regulations. These policies generated intense debate over national identity and humanitarian responsibilities, while galvanizing both pro-immigrant activists and populist constituencies concerned about border security.

Trump nominated three Supreme Court justices, cementing a conservative majority likely to influence U.S. law for decades. (Supreme Court justices in the U.S. have lifetime tenures) Court decisions touching on issues such as reproductive rights, the powers of the executive branch, and regulation may reflect a conservative legal philosophy shaped by Trump’s appointments.

The 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act substantially reduced corporate tax rates and provided tax benefits to higher-income groups. Frequent use of tariffs, particularly against China, altered traditional GOP free-market stances. This was pitched as an effort to protect American industry, though critics argued it risked retaliatory action and higher consumer prices.

Trump’s adversarial stance toward certain media outlets amplified the notion of widespread media bias, further eroding public trust. Direct messaging via Twitter (later extended to Truth Social after his presidency) showcased a new paradigm for political messaging, unfiltered and direct, but also prone to unverified claims and incendiary rhetoric.

Internationally, Trump’s policies lead to a realignment of U.S. Foreign Policy. Under Trumpism, the U.S. took a more unilateral approach, withdrawing from or renegotiating international agreements (e.g., the Paris Climate Accord, the Iran nuclear deal). Preference for one-on-one negotiations was evident in trade talks (e.g., renegotiation of NAFTA into the USMCA). Tensions arose with NATO partners over defense spending obligations. Europe, in particular, questioned U.S. reliability in security matters. Summits with close allies often featured disagreements over tariffs and burden-sharing, contributing to diplomatic friction.

Trump’s electoral success emboldened like-minded politicians in Europe (e.g., far-right populist parties in countries like Italy, France, and Germany) and elsewhere who adopted similarly nationalist and anti-establishment tactics. A broader shift toward populist nationalism hampered efforts on global issues such as climate change, migration crises, and international trade regulations.

The “America First” stance and focus on bilateral deals remain part of mainstream U.S. political debate. Even the subsequent administration under Joe Biden maintained certain protectionist policies, reflecting changing attitudes within both parties.

Trump’s presidency heightened cultural and ideological divides, from race relations to debates on press freedom and executive power. These divisions continue to shape political discourse, making civility and compromise more elusive in Washington.

The use of executive orders, challenges to election results, and confrontational rhetoric about judiciary and media have tested long-standing democratic norms in the U.S. Questions about the stability of institutions such as the Department of Justice and the intelligence community have led to renewed debate over checks and balances.

Trumpism, as a complex political phenomenon, significantly reshaped the domestic and international landscape during and after Donald Trump’s first presidency. Its blend of populist rhetoric, nationalism, and personalistic leadership style disrupted traditional Republican orthodoxy on trade, alliances, and the role of government.

In many respects, Trumpism remains a pivotal force in American politics. Supporters view it as a necessary corrective to elite-driven policy making and what they perceive as unchecked globalization, while critics argue it has eroded democratic norms and international cooperation. Its ultimate legacy hinges on the persistence of populist nationalist currents worldwide and on how future administrations, both in the U.S. and elsewhere, choose to engage with or reject Trump’s combative, populist style.

The events of President Trump’s first week in office as the 47th President underscore a full-throttle return to Trumpism-marked by stark policy reversals, a confrontational governing style, and a firm emphasis on “America First.” These rapid executive orders and reconfigured alliances point to a presidency likely to be defined by intensifying polarization at home and an unpredictable posture abroad.

Supporters see these moves as fulfilling campaign promises and championing American interests; critics warn of democratic backsliding, increased global isolation, and cultural discord. If the opening days are any indicator, the coming four years will mirror, or perhaps exceed, the turmoil, populist appeals, and policy battles of Trump’s previous term. The core tension remains whether the administration can translate sweeping promises into sustainable governance or whether legal challenges, international pushback, and internal divisions will ultimately shape the lasting legacy of Trump’s second presidency.

Mufti Showkat Farooqi, Attorney at Law, New York.