President Trump’s unpredictability, flexibility, and impulsivity is criticized. But perhaps these are strengths. Perhaps he’s playing; perhaps he is negotiating. Perhaps this is his Art of the Deal. President Trump’s behavior is brilliantly characterized by Joe Klein, a former Time Magazine columnist. He writes:
I’ll not fall for the bait. I watched Trump’s press conference. I will take him seriously, but not literally. He’s negotiating. He’s sending messages. And I don’t think the messages are all that terrible. He is haggling for better rates for American ships in the Canal…. He’s sending a larger message to the Chinese: we’re watching every move you make, especially in the western hemisphere. He is haggling with Denmark: Greenland wants independence, at least a majority of its minuscule (57,000) population does and we’re a more plausible big brother than you. He is poking Canada, provocatively, for better trade deals and more defense spending. He is sending us a message, too: I’m Back and More Vehement Than Ever. All of which conveys three things: confidence, the appearance of strength and a certain crafty craziness.
What’s your take on this? I’d be interested to see your comments.
Carl Barney
January 21, 2025