Voice For Liberty

A SECOND TRUMP TERM COMES WITH UNACCEPTABLE RISKS

The Economist warns that Donald Trump’s return to the presidency would introduce significant risks, not only to the United States but to global stability. It acknowledges that while Trump has supporters who either appreciate his past achievements, dismiss allegations against him, or are drawn to his nationalistic vision, the dangers of a second term should not be underestimated. The publication argues that Trump’s first term revealed his unpredictable approach to governance, but his actions were partially restrained by experienced advisors and institutions.

The article notes Trump’s successes, such as economic deregulation, COVID-19 vaccine funding, strengthened U.S. defense, and diplomatic achievements like the Abraham Accords. However, his tenure was marred by controversial decisions and behaviors, notably his refusal to accept the 2020 election results, culminating in the January 6th Capitol attack. Despite institutions ultimately prevailing then, the Economist highlights that Trump’s approach to governance has grown more extreme.

It also points to his proposed policies as more radical and potentially harmful. For instance, Trump’s plans for a 20% tariff on imports and massive deportations could fuel inflation and risk trade conflicts, threatening U.S. economic stability. His foreign policy also shows troubling signs, with allies concerned by his disdain for alliances. These positions could weaken the U.S.’s global influence at a time when conflict and instability in places like Ukraine and the Middle East pose severe challenges.

The Economist also raises concerns about Trump’s increasingly insular support network. Unlike his first term, when some advisors could moderate his impulses, Trump’s current circle includes loyalists with minimal interest in curbing his agenda. Additionally, structural constraints, like the checks previously imposed by Congress or legal limitations, may be less effective in a second term. The Supreme Court’s decisions on presidential immunity could further erode accountability, amplifying the influence of Trump’s personality on governance.

For voters who fear instability, the Economist offers a moderate endorsement of Kamala Harris, presenting her as a cautious choice compared to Trump. It describes her policies as moderate and stable, even if lacking in inspiration. Despite potential shortcomings, Harris, in their view, presents a lesser risk than Trump, whose impulsiveness, willingness to subvert norms, and divisive politics could jeopardize American prosperity and global peace.

Ultimately, the Economist expresses clear opposition to Trump’s candidacy, asserting that the risks tied to his second term are too grave to overlook. If the publication could vote, it states, it would choose Harris, prioritizing stability over the hazards of Trump’s potentially unchecked leadership.

The Economist. “A Second Trump Term Comes with Unacceptable Risks.” *The Economist*, 31 Oct. 2024, https://www.economist.com/leaders/2024/10/31/a-second-trump-term-comes-with-unacceptable-risks.

WHAT ORWELL DIDN’T ANTICIPATE

In "What Orwell Didn’t Anticipate," Megan Garber explores George Orwell's insights on language as a tool of control and warns that today’s political rhetoric manipulates reality in ways Orwell couldn’t foresee. Orwell’s novel *1984* and essay “Politics and the English Language” argue for clear, direct language, highlighting how propagandistic “Newspeak” can suppress thought. Garber asserts, however, that Orwell’s guidance on clarity is strained in modern politics, where language doesn’t just simplify but distorts and disorients.

Garber focuses on Donald Trump’s ambiguous, conditional language, which she argues functions like Orwellian doublespeak by clouding his real intentions while enabling plausible deniability. She cites recent criticisms from former Trump administration officials who, calling Trump “fascist,” warned against his divisive, often violent rhetoric, which characterizes opposition as “the enemy” and distorts language to reframe opponents as existential threats. In this atmosphere, Garber notes, familiar words lose power, as with “fascism”—a term now too exhausted to provoke the necessary alarm.

Garber traces this problem of language manipulation back to political tactics in the 1990s, such as Newt Gingrich's “Newtspeak,” which transformed political opponents into moral enemies, creating an unbridgeable division. She suggests that Orwell, despite his understanding of propaganda, could not foresee how deeply ironic language, paired with digital media, would undermine communication, fostering a pervasive cynicism that disorients and divides society. Garber urges that, rather than look to Orwell for answers, we create new ways to reclaim language as a means of genuine connection and clear truth.

Megan Garber. “What Orwell Didn’t Anticipate.” *The Atlantic*, October 31, 2024.

What Orwell Didn’t Anticipate George Orwell famously argued that clear language in politics can be a bulwark against oppression. But in the Trump era, his solution no longer holds.

INFLATION IS BASICALLY BACK TO NORMAL. WHY DO VOTERS STILL FEEL BLAH?

Despite declining inflation, Americans remain skeptical about the economy, a sentiment potentially harmful to Vice President Kamala Harris’s 2024 election campaign. Although inflation has slowed to a manageable rate of 2.1%, consumer confidence remains low. For many, the high prices on essential goods like groceries, housing, and household items still feel burdensome, leaving them unconvinced of real improvement. Surveys from the University of Michigan and the Conference Board show that while confidence is inching upward, it remains notably below pre-pandemic levels.

One reason for this disconnect is that, while price increases have slowed, overall costs for necessities remain elevated compared to past years. This “sticker shock” continues to weigh on households, especially those who feel that wage increases don’t fully offset these expenses. Housing affordability has also become a sticking point due to recent high interest rates set by the Federal Reserve, making mortgages more costly and locking many out of the housing market.

Political leanings also shape economic perceptions. Republicans, in particular, report a significant drop in confidence since President Biden took office, while Democratic confidence has remained somewhat stable. Partisanship is likely to influence how economic issues affect the election, with a recent poll showing 27% of Americans view the economy as the most critical factor in deciding their vote. Both Harris and former President Donald Trump have focused on cost-cutting in their campaigns, hoping to address Americans' concerns over expenses, though experts question the feasibility of some proposals.

Smialek, Jeanna. "Inflation Is Basically Back to Normal. Why Do Voters Still Feel Blah?" *The New York Times*, 31 Oct. 2024, https://www.nytimes.com/2024/10/31/business/economy/inflation-prices-economy.html.