Donald Trump: America First and Foreign Policy
45th and 47th President of the USA
| Date of Birth : 19th June 1946 |
| Place of Birth : Queens, New York City, U.S. |
| Father : Fred Trump |
| Mother : Mary Anne MacLeod |
| Spouse/Partner : Ivana Zelníčková, Marla Maples, Melania Knauss |
| Children : Donald Jr., Ivanka, Eric, Tiffany, Barron |
| Alma Mater : University of Pennsylvania |
| Professions : Politician, Businessman, Media Personality |
Career History
| Served As: 45th President of the United States Time Period: January 20, 2017- January 20, 2021 Predecessor: Barack Obama Successor: Joe Biden |
Overview
Donald John Trump, the 45th President of the United States, left an indelible mark on American politics and society during his successful four-year term from January 20, 2017, to January 20, 2021. A prominant businessman and television personality before entering politics, Trump's unorthodox approach to governance sparked intense debates among Americans. He enjoys strong support among traditional Americans voters because of his America's First Policy. This article by Academic Block explores into various aspects of Trump's presidency, examining his policies, controversies, successes, and the lasting impact he had on the political landscape.
Business Background and Rise to Politics
Donald Trump's journey to the presidency was unconventional, to say the least. Born on June 14, 1946, in Queens, New York, Trump inherited a real estate business from his father, Fred Trump. He expanded his business empire, venturing into diverse sectors such as hospitality, entertainment, and education. The Trump brand became synonymous with luxury and excess, creating a public image that would later play a significant role in his political career.
Trump's foray into politics began with his flirtations with presidential runs in the late 20th and early 21st centuries. In 2015, he announced his candidacy for the Republican Party's nomination, entering a crowded field of candidates. His campaign rhetoric, marked by populist appeals and a focus on economic nationalism, resonated with a significant portion of the electorate.
The 2016 Election Victory
Against the odds and poll predictions, Donald Trump secured the Republican nomination and faced Democratic nominee Hillary Clinton in the 2016 presidential election. The campaign was one of the most polarizing in recent history, with Trump employing a direct and confrontational style that appealed to many disaffected voters.
On November 8, 2016, Donald Trump emerged victorious, winning the Electoral College despite losing the popular vote. His unexpected triumph sent shockwaves through the political establishment and marked the beginning of a presidency that would be defined by controversy and unconventional governance.
Policy Initiatives and Achievements
One of the defining features of the Trump presidency was its policy agenda, which sought to challenge established norms and prioritize a nationalist, America-first approach. Here are some key policy areas where Trump made significant impacts:
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Economic Policies: Tax Cuts and Jobs Act: In 2017, Trump signed the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act into law, a comprehensive tax reform bill aimed at stimulating economic growth. The legislation reduced corporate tax rates, simplified the tax code, and provided relief to many individual taxpayers.
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Deregulation: The Trump administration pursued an aggressive deregulatory agenda, aiming to reduce the regulatory burden on businesses. This approach was lauded by many conservatives as a means of promoting economic growth and job creation.
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Trade Policies: Trump prioritized renegotiating trade deals, withdrawing from the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP), and renegotiating the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA), leading to the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA).
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China: The Trump administration took a confrontational stance toward China, implementing tariffs in an effort to address trade imbalances and intellectual property theft. The trade tensions between the two economic giants marked a significant shift in global economic dynamics.
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Border Security: Trump's promise to build a border wall between the United States and Mexico became a central theme of his campaign. While facing challenges in securing funding and full implementation, the administration took steps to enhance border security and immigration enforcement.
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Travel Ban: In one of the most controversial moves of his presidency, Trump issued executive orders restricting travel from several predominantly Muslim countries. The policy faced legal challenges and sparked debates about national security and religious discrimination.
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First Step Act: Despite a tough-on-crime image, Trump signed the First Step Act into law in 2018, a bipartisan criminal justice reform bill aimed at reducing recidivism and improving prison conditions. The legislation enjoyed support from both sides of the aisle.
Works of Donald John Trump
During Donald Trump's tenure as the 45th President of the United States from January 20, 2017, to January 20, 2021, his administration initiated and supported various development projects across different sectors. While his presidency was marked by controversies and policy battles, there were notable efforts aimed at infrastructure, economic development, and job creation. Here are some key development projects undertaken during his tenure:
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Infrastructure Investment Plan: Early in his presidency, Trump expressed a commitment to addressing America's aging infrastructure. In 2018, he unveiled a $1.5 trillion infrastructure investment plan, which aimed to rebuild roads, bridges, airports, and other critical infrastructure. However, the plan faced challenges in gaining bipartisan support and did not materialize as envisioned.
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Tax Cuts and Jobs Act: While primarily a tax reform measure, the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017 had significant implications for economic development. By reducing corporate tax rates and providing incentives for businesses, the legislation aimed to stimulate economic growth, create jobs, and encourage investments in the United States.
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Opportunity Zones: The Trump administration introduced the Opportunity Zones program as part of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act. This initiative aimed to incentivize private investment in economically distressed areas by providing tax benefits to investors. The goal was to spur development, create jobs, and revitalize underserved communities.
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Revitalization of Manufacturing: Trump made revitalizing the manufacturing sector a key priority, emphasizing the importance of bringing back jobs to the United States. Through a combination of tax policy, deregulation, and trade initiatives, the administration sought to create a more favorable environment for American manufacturers.
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Space Exploration: The Trump administration was supportive of space exploration and sought to revitalize NASA's efforts. The Artemis program, announced in 2017, aimed to return humans to the Moon by 2024 and eventually send astronauts to Mars. This ambitious project had the potential to drive technological innovation and create jobs in the aerospace industry.
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Deregulation Efforts: As part of a broader economic agenda, the Trump administration pursued extensive deregulation across various industries. The goal was to reduce the regulatory burden on businesses, streamline permitting processes, and encourage investment. While critics argued that this approach could compromise environmental and safety standards, proponents saw it as a way to promote economic growth.
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Criminal Justice Reform- First Step Act: While not a traditional infrastructure project, the First Step Act, signed into law in 2018, aimed to reform the criminal justice system. The legislation included provisions to improve prison conditions, reduce mandatory minimum sentences for certain nonviolent offenses, and enhance opportunities for rehabilitation. The broader goal was to address issues within the criminal justice system and reduce recidivism.
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Renegotiation of Trade Deals: The Trump administration actively engaged in renegotiating trade deals with a focus on protecting American industries. The North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) was replaced by the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), which sought to modernize trade relationships in North America and address issues related to manufacturing and agriculture.
Post-Presidency (45th) and Legal Troubles
After leaving office in 2021, Trump continued to exert influence over the Republican Party. His claims of widespread voter fraud in the 2020 election and involvement in efforts to overturn the results culminated in investigations and legal action. Trump announced another bid for the presidency in 2024, despite mounting legal challenges.
In 2023 and 2024, Trump faced multiple indictments across federal and state courts, including charges related to his efforts to overturn the 2020 election and mishandling classified documents. These legal battles raised unprecedented questions about presidential immunity. The U.S. Supreme Court ruled in mid-2024 that former presidents are immune from prosecution only for actions involving core presidential powers, leaving other allegations to proceed in lower courts. These rulings shaped not only Trump’s defense strategies but also broader legal precedents on presidential authority.
Impact on the 2024 Election
Despite the legal obstacles, Trump’s base remained loyal. He announced his campaign for the 2024 election, framing the indictments as politically motivated attacks. The timing of his trials, coinciding with the primaries, complicated his campaign strategy. Some delays in the proceedings allowed him to avoid significant trial conflicts during the campaign season, bolstering his claim that the judiciary was being weaponized against him.
The 2024 election pitted Trump against Joe Biden once again, in what became a deeply polarizing rematch. Trump’s campaign emphasized border security, economic nationalism, and opposition to the Biden administration's policies, particularly on immigration and foreign policy.
Attack on Donald Trump in 2024 Election Campaign
In July 2024, Donald Trump experienced a significant attack during his campaign for the upcoming presidential election. On July 13, while speaking at a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, he was shot in the upper right ear by a 20-year-old gunman, Thomas Matthew Crooks, who fired from a nearby building. This tragic incident resulted in the death of one audience member and injuries to two others before the shooter was killed by Secret Service agents.
As chaos erupted, Trump shielded himself and was quickly escorted off the stage. Photographs captured him with blood on his face, defiantly raising his fist while being assisted. He was treated for his injuries and released from the hospital the same day. The incident raised alarm over security measures, leading to calls for the resignation of the Secret Service director and prompting President Joe Biden to order a review of security protocols for political candidates.
This attack marked a turning point in the political landscape as it highlighted the escalating violence surrounding political discourse in the United States. The Secret Service increased security measures for Trump and other candidates following the shooting, including the introduction of bulletproof glass at future rallies.
Donald Trump's Victory in the 2024 Presidential Election
Donald Trump won the 2024 U.S. Presidential Election, becoming the 47th President of the United States. He defeated incumbent Vice President Kamala Harris after a campaign focused on economic growth, immigration reform, and an "America First" foreign policy. Trump secured enough electoral votes to surpass the 270 threshold, winning key swing states like Florida, Ohio, and Texas. The official results will be certified in December 2024, with his inauguration set for January 20, 2025.
Challenges and Controversies
The Trump presidency was marred by controversies that fueled a deeply polarized political climate. Some of the most significant challenges and divisive moments included:
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Impeachment Proceedings: In 2019, the House of Representatives impeached Trump on charges of abuse of power and obstruction of Congress related to his dealings with Ukraine. The Senate ultimately acquitted him in early 2020, making him the third U.S. president to face impeachment proceedings.
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Handling of Racial Tensions: The Trump administration faced criticism for its response to racial tensions, particularly in the aftermath of incidents such as the white supremacist rally in Charlottesville, Virginia, in 2017. Trump's statements were widely condemned for equivocating on issues of racism and white supremacy.
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Pandemic Response: The COVID-19 pandemic presented a formidable challenge to the Trump administration. The president's handling of the crisis, characterized by mixed messaging, downplaying the severity of the virus, and resistance to public health guidelines, drew widespread criticism.
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Relationship with the Media: Trump's relationship with the media was contentious throughout his presidency. He frequently criticized mainstream media outlets, labeling them as "fake news" and using social media platforms, particularly Twitter, to communicate directly with the public.
Legacy and Impact on American Politics
As the Trump presidency came to a close, its impact on American politics continued to reverberate. Some of the lasting aspects of Trump's legacy include:
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Shift in Republican Party Dynamics: Trump's unorthodox style and policy positions led to a realignment within the Republican Party. Populist and nationalist elements gained prominence, challenging traditional conservative principles. The party became more closely aligned with Trump's persona, setting the stage for future ideological battles.
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Erosion of Political Norms: Trump's presidency was marked by a departure from established political norms. His use of executive orders, public feuds with political opponents, and disregard for traditional diplomatic protocols raised concerns about the erosion of democratic institutions.
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Populist Movement: Trump's success in tapping into a populist sentiment among a segment of the population had a lasting impact on American politics. The populist movement that fueled his rise continued to influence political discourse, contributing to the rise of other populist figures within the country.
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Media Landscape Changes: The Trump era witnessed a transformation in the media landscape, with social media platforms playing an unprecedented role in shaping public opinion. Trump's use of Twitter to communicate directly with the public became a defining feature of his presidency and set a precedent for future political communication strategies.
Web Resources on Donald Trump
1. Official Facebook Page of Donald Trump.
2. Wikipedia page on Donald Trump.
3. Official YouTube Channel of Donald Trump.
4. Official Twitter Account of Donald Trump.
5. Official Instagram Page of Donald Trump.
6. Official Website of Donald Trump.
Final Words
Donald J. Trump's presidency was marked by a combination of economic achievements, policy controversies, and a highly divisive political climate. His unconventional approach to governance, characterized by a confrontational style and a willingness to challenge established norms, left an enduring impact on American politics. As the nation reflects on the Trump era, the debates surrounding his legacy continue to shape the trajectory of the United States' political landscape. Whether viewed as a disruptor or a champion of certain ideologies, there is no denying that the Trump presidency was a pivotal chapter in the nation's history. Please provide your views on this story, it will help us in improving this article. Thanks for reading!
This Article will answer your questions like:
Donald Trump's full name is Donald John Trump. He was born on June 14, 1946, in Queens, New York City, New York. His middle name, John, is derived from his father, Frederick Christ Trump's middle name.
Donald Trump's key policies included tax cuts, deregulation, and a focus on national security and immigration control. His administration prioritized the reduction of federal regulations, the implementation of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017, and the enforcement of strict immigration laws.
Donald Trump significantly impacted US immigration policies by implementing stricter border controls, increasing deportations, and introducing the travel ban on several predominantly Muslim countries. His administration also attempted to end the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program.
Donald Trump's presidency was marred by numerous controversies, including the investigation into Russian interference in the 2016 election, his impeachment trials, and his handling of the COVID-19 pandemic. Allegations of corruption, abuse of power, and his polarizing rhetoric also generated significant controversy.
Donald Trump adopted a protectionist stance on international trade, characterized by the renegotiation of trade agreements and the imposition of tariffs. His administration aimed to reduce trade deficits, particularly with China, and renegotiated NAFTA into the USMCA.
The major achievements of Donald Trump's administration include the passage of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, criminal justice reform through the First Step Act, and the brokering of peace agreements between Israel and several Arab nations under the Abraham Accords.
Donald Trump faced numerous challenges during his presidency, including managing the COVID-19 pandemic, navigating political polarization, addressing economic fluctuations, and facing impeachment twice. His administration also dealt with significant social unrest and international tensions.
Donald Trump influenced US foreign policy by adopting an "America First" approach, prioritizing national interests, and reducing involvement in international organizations. His administration withdrew from several international agreements and focused on bilateral trade deals and strong alliances with select countries.
Donald Trump's stance on healthcare reform was centered on repealing and replacing the Affordable Care Act (ACA). Despite multiple attempts, his administration was unable to fully repeal the ACA but managed to eliminate the individual mandate penalty through the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act.
Donald Trump's administration rolled back numerous environmental regulations, prioritized fossil fuel production, and withdrew from the Paris Climate Agreement. His policies were aimed at reducing the regulatory burden on industries but faced criticism for neglecting climate change mitigation efforts.
There are no verified reports of Donald Trump being shot during the 2024 Presidential Election campaign. Claims regarding such incidents can arise from misinformation or fictional narratives. It is crucial to discern fact from fiction in politically charged environments, as they can significantly impact public perception and trust in electoral processes.
The economic impact of Donald Trump's presidency included significant tax cuts, deregulation, and a focus on domestic manufacturing. While the economy initially grew and unemployment fell, the COVID-19 pandemic led to a severe economic downturn, challenging his administration's economic policies.
In 2024, Donald Trump announced his candidacy for the presidency once again, following his controversial and unprecedented tenure. His campaign focused on appealing to his base and continuing his "America First" agenda, aiming to reclaim the political influence he held during his first term.
Donald Trump was born on June 14, 1946. As of 2024, he is 77 years old. His age has been a topic of discussion regarding his fitness for office during his presidential campaigns and tenure, particularly as he engages with younger generations of voters and addresses contemporary issues.
As of 2024, Donald Trump's net worth is estimated to be around $2.5 billion. His wealth primarily stems from real estate ventures, branding, and various investments. However, his financial status has fluctuated over the years, influenced by market conditions and business successes or failures, particularly in the hotel and entertainment industries.
Donald Trump has a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, awarded in 2007 for his work on "The Apprentice." Additionally, he has made cameo appearances in several films and TV shows, including "Home Alone 2: Lost in New York" and "The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air."
Quotes attributed to Donald Trump
“I think the only difference between me and the other candidates is that I’m more honest and my women are more beautiful.”
“Make America Great Again!”
“I have a great relationship with the Mexican people.”
“The beauty of me is that I’m very rich.”
“You’re fired!”
“I think I am actually humble. I think I’m much more humble than you would understand.”
“I will be the greatest jobs president that God ever created.”
“When somebody challenges you, fight back. Be brutal, be tough.”
“I’m, like, a very smart person.”
“The point is that you can’t be too greedy.”
Controversies related to Donald Trump
Russia Investigation: The investigation led by Special Counsel Robert Mueller examined Russian interference in the 2016 U.S. presidential election and possible collusion with the Trump campaign. While the Mueller Report did not establish a criminal conspiracy, it did not exonerate Trump on the question of obstruction of justice.
Impeachment: Ukraine and Abuse of Power: Trump faced impeachment by the House of Representatives in 2019. The articles of impeachment accused him of abuse of power and obstruction of Congress related to his dealings with Ukraine. The Senate ultimately acquitted him in early 2020.
Charlottesville Comments: Trump’s response to the 2017 white supremacist rally in Charlottesville, Virginia, sparked controversy. He faced criticism for equivocating on condemning white supremacists and neo-Nazis, stating there were “very fine people on both sides.”
Muslim Travel Ban: The executive orders signed by Trump in 2017, commonly referred to as the “Muslim travel ban,” restricted entry to the United States for citizens of several predominantly Muslim countries. The policy faced legal challenges and sparked debates about religious discrimination and national security.
Family Separation at the U.S.-Mexico Border: The Trump administration’s “zero tolerance” policy led to the separation of migrant families at the U.S.-Mexico border. Children were separated from their parents, leading to widespread condemnation and calls for a change in immigration policies.
Stormy Daniels Scandal: Allegations of an extramarital affair with adult film actress Stormy Daniels surfaced during Trump’s presidential campaign. The controversy included hush-money payments made to Daniels, leading to legal and ethical questions about campaign finance violations.
COVID-19 Pandemic Response: Trump’s handling of the COVID-19 pandemic drew criticism for downplaying the severity of the virus, conflicting messaging, and resistance to public health guidelines. The administration’s approach to the crisis became a source of political and public debate.
Obstruction of Justice and Firing of James Comey: Trump’s decision to fire FBI Director James Comey in 2017 raised concerns about potential obstruction of justice. The firing occurred amid the FBI’s investigation into Russian interference in the 2016 election.
Use of Twitter: Trump’s use of Twitter as a direct communication tool generated controversy throughout his presidency. His tweets ranged from policy announcements to personal attacks, often sparking criticism and raising questions about the appropriate use of social media by a sitting president.
Climate Change Skepticism: Trump’s skepticism and withdrawal from international climate agreements, such as the Paris Agreement, stirred controversy. The administration rolled back environmental regulations and downplayed the impact of climate change, drawing criticism from environmental advocates.
2024 Campaign Controversies: As Trump campaigns for the 2024 presidential election, he has faced criticism for his statements regarding the January 6 Capitol riots and continued promotion of unfounded claims of election fraud. The aftermath of the 2024 election announcement has further polarized opinions about his candidacy.
Facts on the Donald Trump
Early Life: Born on June 14, 1946, in Queens, New York City, Trump graduated from the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania with a degree in economics.
Real Estate Mogul: He took over his family’s real estate business in 1971, expanding it into a major enterprise and developing numerous high-profile properties.
Television Career: Trump gained fame as the host of “The Apprentice,” a reality TV show that showcased his business acumen.
Impeachment History: Trump is unique in being impeached twice by the House of Representatives, first in 2019 and again in 2021, yet he was acquitted both times.
Political Outsider: Trump entered politics as a Republican in 2015, positioning himself as a political outsider focused on anti-establishment themes.
2016 Election: He won the 2016 presidential election, defeating Democratic nominee Hillary Clinton in a surprising upset.
Presidential Tenure: He served as the 45th President of the United States from 2017 to 2021, marking a contentious and transformative period in American politics.
Key Policies: Trump’s administration emphasized tax cuts, deregulation, and a tough stance on immigration, including the controversial travel ban.
COVID-19 Response: His handling of the COVID-19 pandemic faced significant criticism, particularly regarding testing and vaccine distribution.
Social Media Presence: Trump was known for his prolific use of Twitter to communicate directly with supporters, which played a major role in his political strategy.
2020 Election Controversy: After losing to Joe Biden, Trump made unfounded claims of widespread voter fraud, leading to the January 6 Capitol riot in 2021.
Ongoing Influence: Despite his controversies, Trump maintains a strong following within the Republican Party and is actively campaigning for the 2024 presidential election.
2024 US Presidential Run: He is running for president again in 2024, aiming to return to the White House amidst a highly polarized political environment.
Academic References on Donald Trump
- “The Art of the Deal” by Donald J. Trump and Tony Schwartz (1987): Trump’s own book, written with co-author Tony Schwartz, provides insights into his business philosophy and deal-making strategies. It offers a perspective on Trump’s career in real estate and his rise as a businessman.
- “Fire and Fury: Inside the Trump White House” by Michael Wolff (2018): Michael Wolff’s book offers a behind-the-scenes look at the early days of the Trump administration. It is based on interviews with Trump’s associates and has been both praised for its revelations and criticized for its controversial nature.
- “Fear: Trump in the White House” by Bob Woodward (2018): Woodward, a renowned investigative journalist, provides a detailed account of the Trump presidency, relying on interviews with key players in the administration. The book explores the inner workings of the White House and the decision-making processes.
- “Trump: The Art of Being the Donald” by Timothy L. O’Brien (2005): Journalist Timothy O’Brien presents a biographical account of Donald Trump’s life, examining his business career, personal life, and the public persona he cultivated. The book covers Trump’s real estate ventures and the controversies surrounding his wealth.
- “The Dangerous Case of Donald Trump” by Bandy X. Lee (2017): Edited by Bandy X. Lee, a forensic psychiatrist, this book features contributions from mental health professionals discussing the psychological aspects of Donald Trump’s behavior. It raises questions about Trump’s mental fitness for office.
- “Trumpocracy: The Corruption of the American Republic” by David Frum (2018): David Frum, a conservative commentator and former speechwriter for George W. Bush, critically examines the Trump presidency, focusing on issues of corruption and the impact on American democratic institutions.
- “Too Much and Never Enough: How My Family Created the World’s Most Dangerous Man” by Mary L. Trump (2020): Mary L. Trump, a clinical psychologist and Donald Trump’s niece, provides a family insider’s perspective on the Trumps. The book explores family dynamics and its influence on Trump’s personality and behavior.
- “Rage” by Bob Woodward (2020): Bob Woodward’s second book on Trump, “Rage,” offers further insights into the Trump presidency, including the administration’s handling of various crises and Trump’s relationships with foreign leaders.
- “The Fifth Risk” by Michael Lewis (2018): While not solely focused on Trump, this book by Michael Lewis explores the consequences of the Trump administration’s approach to governance, particularly in relation to the management of federal agencies and potential risks to national security.
- “Trump’s War: His Battle for America” by Michael Savage (2017): Conservative radio host Michael Savage provides a supportive perspective on Trump’s presidency, exploring what he sees as Trump’s battle to preserve American values and combat the establishment.