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Saturday, February 15, 2025

Donald Trump’s Era of ‘Unfettered Power’ is Underway, Warns Former Australian Ambassador to the US Arthur Sinodinos

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In a stark warning to the international community, former Australian ambassador to the United States Arthur Sinodinos has cautioned that Donald Trump’s second term as President marks the beginning of an era of “unfettered power”. Sinodinos, who served during the final year of Trump’s first term, shared his concerns in an interview with ABC’s 7.30 program, highlighting the significant implications of Trump’s sweeping authority.

Embarking on a New Term with Unprecedented Power

Trump’s re-election victory over Democratic candidate Kamala Harris has not only fortified his standing but also emboldened his approach to governance. Sinodinos noted that Trump, now backed by a loyalist cabinet and a supportive Congress, feels unconstrained in his exercise of power.

“He knows the pitfalls this time around,” Sinodinos explained. “Last term, he was surrounded by individuals who didn’t necessarily align with his agenda. This time, loyalty is paramount, and his preparation has been meticulous, with significant input from conservative think tanks like the Heritage Foundation.”

A Wave of Executive Orders

On his first day back in office, Trump signed a flurry of executive orders, signaling his intent to act decisively and without hesitation. The orders, covering a range of policies from immigration to trade, reflect a leader who, as Sinodinos puts it, has “the equivalent in democratic terms of unfettered power”.

Joe Hockey, another former Australian ambassador to the US, echoed these sentiments on ABC Radio National. “The handbrake is off,” Hockey declared. “Trump isn’t constrained by re-election concerns, opposition from a Democratic House or Senate, or even a legal system he perceives as antagonistic.”

The Role of the Supreme Court

With a Supreme Court largely appointed by Republican presidents, including Trump himself, concerns are mounting over the judiciary’s role in this new political landscape. Sinodinos pointed out that while Trump might lean on the court to support his agenda, the justices, as respected legal practitioners, will have to weigh their decisions carefully.

“The Supreme Court may have a six to three conservative majority, but they’re independent minds who will have to consider the long-term implications of their rulings,” he said. “Any constitutional changes Trump seeks without broad approval could face significant judicial scrutiny.”

Tariffs and Their Potential Impact

A significant area of concern for both Sinodinos and Hockey is Trump’s aggressive trade policies. Trump has announced new tariffs on Mexico and Canada, effective from February 1, alongside substantial tariffs on Chinese goods and other imports. These measures, intended as punitive actions against perceived economic threats, are likely to have unintended consequences for American consumers.

“Tariffs function as a tax on consumers,” Sinodinos warned. “They could lead to inflationary pressures and higher costs for American families. The broader implications for global trade are also troubling, as retaliatory measures from affected countries could escalate economic tensions.”

Hockey, who has discussed the issue with Trump, expressed frustration over the president’s misunderstanding of tariffs. “Trump believes these tariffs are costs borne by foreign countries,” Hockey said. “In reality, they’re paid by American consumers in the form of higher prices. Despite numerous discussions, this fundamental economic principle hasn’t resonated with him.”

Challenges Ahead

As Trump’s second term unfolds, the global community and domestic opposition must grapple with a presidency less encumbered by traditional checks and balances. Both Sinodinos and Hockey underscore the importance of vigilance, especially as Trump’s policies begin to take full effect.

“With a weakened Democratic opposition and a judiciary that could be leveraged, Trump’s path to enact his full agenda seems clear,” Sinodinos concluded. “The next two years will be crucial in determining how far he will push the boundaries of presidential power.”

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