Danger signs

Donald Trump is a very dangerous man.

It would seem that the consensus from various critics, academics, legal experts, progressive commentators, policy analysts, or disillusioned former supporters all highlight potential risks of a Trump presidency – second time round – based on his actions leading up to and since his January inauguration. Here’s a brief summary of what’s being flagged as dangerous:

Trump’s admiration for strongmen like Viktor Orbán, Vladimir Putin and Kim Jong Un and his appointment of loyalists are signs of a push to centralised power. His moves to weaken institutional checks, like pressuring the judiciary or using the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) to slash federal agencies, could erode democratic norms. The fear is a slide toward governance where dissent is stifled, especially given his past comments about punishing political enemies.

Trump’s rhetoric – calling opponents “vermin” or framing immigrants as threats – has reignited accusations that he’s fueling division. Some worry this could spark more violence, citing the January 6th legacy or recent militia chatter online. His policies, like mass deportation plans led by “border czar” Thomas Homan, are seen as risking humanitarian crises or street-level clashes if met with resistance from sanctuary cities or activist groups.

While Trump touts economic wins, skeptics highlight risks in his approach. Tariffs and tax cuts could balloon the deficit – already a concern after his first term’s $7.8 trillion debt increase – and potentially spike inflation if supply chains buckle. Elon Musk’s DOGE cuts to government spending might destabilise public services, hitting vulnerable populations hardest and possibly triggering economic backlash if markets react poorly to the chaos.

Foreign policy hawks and liberals alike fret over Trump’s “America First” stance. Pulling back from NATO support or cozying up to leaders like Putin (as some suspect given his Ukraine stance) could embolden adversaries like Russia or China. His unpredictable style – think Milei’s chainsaw gift at CPAC – might unsettle allies, leaving the U.S. isolated or less trusted on the world stage.

Progressive voices warn that Trump’s executive orders targeting transgender rights, DEI programs, and abortion access signal a broader rollback of civil liberties. Critics see Vice President J.D. Vance’s defense of these moves as proof of a cultural clampdown, potentially alienating younger voters and entrenching a conservative agenda that clashes with shifting demographics.

Trump’s attacks on “fake news” raises flags about free speech. Some fear his influence – amplified by Musk’s ownership of X – could drown out opposition, creating an echo chamber that distorts public perception and undermines accountability.

I admit that these dangers aren’t universally accepted – supporters argue they’re overblown or misread – but they reflect the loudest anxieties circulating now. Critics lean on patterns from Trump’s first term and early moves in this one, like his CPAC flex, to predict a presidency that could test the resilience of American and global systems.

 

Dear reader, we need your support

Independent sites such as The AIMN provide a platform for public interest journalists. From its humble beginning in January 2013, The AIMN has grown into one of the most trusted and popular independent media organisations.

One of the reasons we have succeeded has been due to the support we receive from our readers through their financial contributions.

With increasing costs to maintain The AIMN, we need this continued support.

Your donation – large or small – to help with the running costs of this site will be greatly appreciated.

You can donate through PayPal or credit card via the button below, or donate via bank transfer: BSB: 062500; A/c no: 10495969