Is Trump Smarter Than You Think?
Could Donald Trump be smarter than he’s given credit for? Many might chortle at the notion, often picturing his presidency filled with controversies and uproarious tweets. Yet, amidst the tweeted storms and political squalls, specific decisions during his tenure brought unexpected benefits.
In this blog, we’ll explore ten decisions by Trump that played out surprisingly well, supported by data and real-world outcomes. These instances challenge preconceived notions and offer a fresh perspective on Trump’s capabilities. Buckle up for insights that might just make you see Trump in a new light, based on real-world data—not fictional tales.
1. Tax Cuts and Jobs Act: A Business Boost
Trump’s Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017 was initially a magnet for criticism, primarily for favoring the wealthy. However, a deeper dive shows that it spurred corporate investments and job growth, setting the stage for economic expansion.
Business investment rose by 4.8% annually following the cuts, according to the Bureau of Economic Analysis. This ripple effect was felt as companies expanded, bolstered by significant tax breaks. Not bad for a decision thought to serve only the elite, right?
2. Criminal Justice Reform: A Bipartisan Achievement
The signing of the First Step Act in 2018 was a monumental decision for criminal justice reform. Not only was it a rare bipartisan victory, but it also led to the release of thousands of prisoners, undoing some of the harsh penalties from the ’90s.
According to the U.S. Sentencing Commission, significant reductions in mandatory minimums positively impacted prison populations. Trump achieved what many thought his administration incapable of doing—bringing both sides together for real, human impact.
3. Military Spending: Strengthening Defense
Increased military spending always sparks debate. Yet, Trump’s decision to bolster the defense budget resulted in modernized military capabilities and bolstered national security.
The 2019 defense budget, reaching $686 billion according to the Department of Defense, modernized equipment, improved readiness, and strengthened global military presence. His administration argued it was preparing the U.S. for modern warfare’s challenges. Whether loved or loathed, the decision had clear motives rooted in measurable outcomes.
4. Trade Wars with China: Unyielding Negotiator
Trump’s trade war with China drew intense scrutiny, with tariffs raising eyebrows across global markets. However, it brought China to the table to address trade imbalances, an unresolved issue for decades.
Statistics from the U.S. Census Bureau showed a narrowing trade deficit with China by $75 billion from 2018 to 2019, amidst all the chaos. While the approach was contentious, the outcome surprised even seasoned trade analysts.
5. Space Force: Out-of-this-World Thinking
Jokes about the Space Force’s utility circulated as soon as it was announced. Yet, this move was more than sci-fi melodrama—it was a move towards securing space as the next frontier in geopolitical strategy.
The first new military branch in over 70 years, the Space Force, addressed increasing concerns about satellites and cyber threats orbiting above. This was a step that ensures the U.S. doesn’t lag in the celestial chess game.
6. NAFTA to USMCA: A Trade Shake-Up
Transforming NAFTA into the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) was bold. Critics feared disruption of long-standing trade networks, but the updated deal included stronger labor and environmental regulations.
The U.S. Trade Representative reported boosts in the auto industry and more balanced trade terms, creating better markets for goods while protecting local industries. The decision’s success lies in negotiated improvements that many considered improbable.
7. Appointing Conservative Judges: Long-term Influence
Donald’s appointment of Supreme Court justices and federal judges was expected to incite basic partisan divides. However, this decision ensured a conservative influence on American jurisprudence for decades.
According to the Federal Judicial Center, Trump’s 234 federal judgeships represented a transformation of the judiciary landscape, sending ripples of change through legal decisions nationwide. A silent but substantial component of his legacy.
8. Withdrawing from the Paris Agreement: Environmental Repercussions
By withdrawing from the Paris Agreement, Trump aimed at freeing the U.S. from what he called ‘unfair economic burdens.’ Many feared this would spell doom for climate action.
However, this decision sparked local government and private sector action—states and businesses continued to pursue aggressive climate policies, often exceeding federal benchmarks. It inadvertently galvanized sectors towards innovative, greener solutions.
9. Immigration Reforms: A Double-Edged Sword
Trump’s stringent immigration policies attracted fierce debate, balancing national security and humanitarian concerns. Notably, his policies reduced illegal crossings at the southern border, according to U.S. Customs and Border Protection data.
By prioritizing border security, there was a temporary spike in workplace-generated E-Verify checks, indicating a pivot towards monitored employment practices, providing food for thought on immigration’s industrial aspects.
10. Economic Populism: Speaking to the Forgotten
Trump’s populist rhetoric touched a nerve, rekindling focus on blue-collar America. Despite criticisms, his unwavering spotlight on domestic labor issues introduced what many saw as overdue discourse.
Studies from the Appalachian Regional Commission revealed increases in job training and manufacturing roles, following rallies and policy shifts aiming to bring industry back home. Such actions revived conversations on local worker importance, setting a precedent for future administrations.
Conclusion: The Surprising Policy Virtuoso
When you peel back the surface-layer tweets and headline grabs, Trump’s tenure reveals an unexpected streak of smart decisions. Each one, backed by undeniable data, contributed to a complex legacy, rife with controversy and success.
The question remains: Does this make him smarter than we initially thought? Share your insights and let’s continue the conversation. After all, in politics, as in chess, strategy determines the match’s outcome.
