Donald Trump’s presidency in the supposed ‘land of the free’ has many Australians shaking in their boots. The larger concern, of course, is the long-term effects his leadership may have on international relations and domestic politics. His unpredictability has placed a spotlight on the trustworthiness of the United States as an ally, prompting questions about Australia’s national security and future diplomatic engagements.
Australia’s alarm at this aspect of Trump’s transactional approach to foreign affairs has only increased in recent days, after Trump announced global tariffs. These tariffs have changed the game. Instead of a “Trump bump,” international partners such as Australia are suffering a “Trump slump.” The president’s recent decision to slap a 10% tariff on Australian aluminum exports is a case in point. It sounds the alarm on the dangers of relying on a partner that seems all too willing to walk away from decades-old commitments.
Concern over Trump’s potential mischief is growing. This has unleashed a political firestorm on the prudence of outsourcing Australia’s national security to the United States. Pushing the boundaries of domestic rule bent by presidential will, Trump’s actions move beyond the established norms of American diplomacy. Now, Australian decisionmakers are grappling with the harsh reality that their national security is likely at stake.
The Impact of Trump’s Leadership
After Trump’s presidency, much of the world seems skeptical that the U.S. can be counted on as a reliable ally. His mercurial temperament and desire to reopen settled deals have led to deep anxiety within Australia about his leadership. Experts say that these reasons underscore the pressing need for Australia to revisit its security priorities.
Photo by Mark Wilson/Getty Images
Breaking down the narrative
Political analyst David Jackman discussed how the high-level dialogue has changed U.S.-Australia relations.
“The narrative flipped from being sort of looking backwards at Labor’s economic performance to looking forward and (saying), ‘Oh my goodness, the world is very different and dangerous and insecure, and our closest ally and strategic partner is saying all these horrible things about us. I thought the Americans liked us. What’s going on?’” – Jackman.
This dramatic change in tone indicates a remarkable shift in opinion among Australians about their country’s historical dependence on the U.S. Trump’s administration is doing this largely through executive orders and administrative actions. This change is rapidly ensuring increasing ruination out Australia’s foreign policy and security.
Domestic Political Repercussions
The volatility of Trump’s administration has had a second, more insidious effect on Australian domestic politics. Even Peter Dutton, one of the leading conservative voices down under, has started to see himself compared to Trump. In his rhetoric and policies he often sounds like—well, like Trump on immigration. Dutton has managed to downplay these comparisons by claiming,
“I don’t know Donald Trump; I’ve never met him.”
Critics take note that there is an undeniable right-wing populist instinct in both personas. This instinct deeply taps into certain elements of their political ecosystems.
As Frank Bongiorno, a history professor at the Australian National University, said of Dutton’s political approach.
“His instincts are those of a right-wing populist. I have no doubt about that, so they do bear resemblance to the kind of politics and rhetoric we’ve associated with Trump.” – Frank Bongiorno.
Dutton’s critique of high immigration is very much in line with stances that Trump adopted while in office. This juxtaposition has sparked some of the most intense public discourse in Australian history over immigration and multiculturalism. It’s a throwback to the fractious debates that defined Trump’s presidency here in America.
The Rise of Trump-Inspired Movements
Alongside the rise of right-wing populism represented by Dutton, fringe movements have taken off in Australia inspired by Trump’s ideology. Clive Palmer recently launched a party called the Trumpet of Patriots, seeking to capitalize on Trump’s popularity and rally support around similar nationalist themes. Palmer’s campaign slogan, “end the two-party duopoly and make Australia great,” reflects a populist appeal that echoes Trump’s own rhetoric.
As these movements start to advance, political observers caution that they could deepen divisions in Australian society. Jackman pointed out the potential consequences of this growing influence:
“Funnily enough, Trump is probably seen as a bigger threat to the global order than China.” – Jackman.
As Australia navigates this complex political landscape, many citizens remain vigilant regarding the possible ramifications of adopting Trump-like policies domestically.
