As Donald Trump prepares to begin his second term as U.S. president, the German ambassador to the United States, Andreas Michaelis, has raised concerns about his policies. In a confidential report, Michaelis warned that Trump’s administration could pose risks to American democratic institutions.
Concentration of Power and Constitutional Changes
Michaelis’ report, sent to Germany’s Foreign Ministry and Chancellor Olaf Scholz’s office, outlines the potential consequences of Trump’s agenda. He cautioned that it could lead to an unprecedented concentration of power in the presidency. This could weaken the role of Congress, law enforcement, and the media. Michaelis expressed concern that Trump’s approach might disrupt established political norms and alter the constitutional framework that has governed U.S. democracy for over two centuries. He also feared the dismantling of bureaucratic structures and the pursuit of political retribution. These actions could destabilize the traditional system of checks and balances.
Germany Stresses the Importance of U.S. Alliance
Despite the concerns raised in the report, the German Foreign Ministry has refrained from commenting publicly. Instead, it emphasized the significance of the U.S.-Germany alliance. The ministry acknowledged Trump’s election as a democratic process and reaffirmed Germany’s commitment to working with his administration. As Trump’s second term begins, Germany is preparing for potential challenges in navigating its relationship with the U.S. Nevertheless, it remains focused on maintaining cooperation despite growing concerns about democratic stability.