by Zubair Chowdhury
As a British aspiring investigative journalist, I have taken a deep dive into Donald Trump’s leadership style, philosophy, and legacy. This article is not an attack, but rather an analysis that aims to shed light on a complicated figure and the implications of his actions for America’s future.
People worldwide react strongly to Donald J. Trump, who is associated with polarising but aggressive leadership. From the towering skyscrapers of Manhattan to the hallways of the Oval Office, Trump’s path has broken moulds, challenged norms, and set new standards in the political and media environments. As his power grows, so does the argument over the type of leader he genuinely is and could become.
In this article, we will peel back the layers of Trump’s leadership style, assessing his strengths and faults. With this in mind, perhaps we can shed light on the route forward, one that will either cement his legacy as a unifier or characterise him as a divider. The choice, as always, lies in the vision and values he chooses to embody next.
Achievement: A Testimony to Ambition
Few can dispute Donald Trump’s achievements. Born into opulence, he used this base to develop a real estate empire, making his name into a worldwide renowned brand. The businessman who grew his family’s wealth became a television superstar, before making a surprising move into politics and won the US presidency in 2016 against enormous odds. Trump’s triumph is evidence of his natural sense of the political pulse of America and the aspirations of millions of people yearning change.
As remarkable as Trump’s successes are, they raise an important question: Is achievement measured by material prosperity or by helping others? Real, enduring legacy hinges not only on fame and wealth but on service to those who rely on their leader’s vision to elevate the collective good. In this regard, Trump faces a test. Can he expand his notion of achievement to include the prosperity of all Americans, not just the loyal base that propelled him into office?
Authenticity: The Double-Edged Sword of Truth
Trump is nothing if not authentic. In a world where political figures are often tightly controlled, his brash, unfiltered style is rare. Americans and the world always know where he stands, whether on social media, at rallies, or in public addresses. His refusal to filter his thoughts is his hallmark, symbolising his unwillingness to conform to political convention. It’s an authenticity that resonates with those disillusioned by politics as usual.
However, authenticity in leadership carries a heavy responsibility. While it builds trust with those who value honesty, it can also alienate others when used divisively. Authenticity in a leader shines brightest when it promotes unity, empathy, and a commitment to the well-being of others. For Trump, the challenge may be to use his forthrightness to foster bridges rather than trenches championing empathy alongside strength. In this way, his authenticity could inspire and uplift, rather than divide.
A Missed Opportunity?
The slogan “America First” captured Trump’s nationalist agenda. His approach has been clear: America must prioritise its own interests, particularly in trade, military funding, and immigration. This message resonated with many who felt the country had compromised too often on behalf of others. Trump risks alienating the United States by taking an uncompromising position on international collaboration at a time when global concerns such as cyber security, public health, and climate change require unified action.
A leader determines a balance between addressing their people’s needs first and developing long-term alliances that benefit their kingdom. Winston Churchill highlighted the necessity of alliances to Britain’s survival during World War Two. Embracing a similar strategy might transform Trump’s legacy from one of rebellion to one of collaboration. A redefined Trump doctrine one that encourages productive partnerships while safeguarding American interests could bolster his influence and reinforce America’s global leadership.
Ownership: The Power of Accountability
Throughout his term, Trump took direct ownership of his policies and decisions, often with a firm hand. His use of executive orders demonstrated a desire to take immediate action, sometimes at the expense of traditional legislative processes. This decisiveness reflects his background in business, where swift action can yield swift results.
Yet, the most impactful leaders understand that lasting change comes not from one man’s vision, but from a shared mission. Shared responsibility fosters unity and resilience in times of crisis, strengthening the nation’s resolve as a whole. Trump’s leadership might benefit from adopting the idea that shared ownership does not weaken power, but rather strengthens it. A revitalised commitment to shared governance might be consistent with America’s democratic principles, reaffirming the Republic’s values and bringing a diverse range of perspectives into decision-making.
Vision: “America First”—But America United?
“America First” is unambiguous and forceful. It conveys a clear vision of strength, independence, and self-reliance resonating deeply with a significant portion of the American electorate. But a powerful vision is one that not only unites, but uplifts. America’s greatest moments have come when it looked forward, with purpose and compassion, inviting all its citizens into the promise of prosperity.
A energised vision that encourages national excitement while also respecting America’s role in the global community may help to solidify Trump’s reputation as a forward-thinking leader who understands the challenges of a contemporary, interconnected world. By tackling issues that all Americans care about, such as healthcare, education, and jobs, Trump might bridge party divisions and cement his reputation as a unifier rather than a divider.
The Path Forward: From Power to Purpose
Trump, has a rare chance to test the limits of traditional leadership. The term “person of faith” was used to characterise Trump by 64% of Republicans surveyed. As a follower, he can cultivate qualities shared by the three Abrahamic faiths: Judaism, Islam, and Christianity, include humility, compassion, and a dedication to justice. Christians advise leaders to “love thy neighbour as thyself” and to be compassionate even towards those who disagree with them. Islam encourages mercy and compassion, reminding us that a genuine leader serves their people with justice and honesty, as seen by the Prophet Muhammad’s leadership to “be merciful to those on earth.” Similarly, Judaism emphasises justice in the Torah’s famous mandate, which is “Tzedek, tzedek tirdof”—”Justice, justice shall you pursue.” This call speaks to the deep-rooted value of righteousness, emphasising that a just society cares for the welfare of every individual.
Together, these Christian, Islamic, and Jewish teachings offer a framework for leadership based on knowledge, justice, and moral obligation, emphasising the obligation of a leader to protect the welfare of all citizens. Trump has the chance to lead with a vision of unity by leveraging these shared values, overcoming differences to build a society that values compassion and strength.
A Leader’s True Greatness
A leader’s capacity to develop, adjust, and overcome obstacles is what makes them truly exceptional. Trump’s next actions could make his legacy one of lifting America, bringing people from all walks of life together around a common vision for its future, rather than one of dividing it. If he embraces this call to greatness, history will remember him not only for what he achieved, but for how he transformed.
A Legacy Within Reach
Donald J. Trump has always been a leader with a mission and a conviction that he can change the course of history. As I write this article asking myself “Sir” you must now decide whether to continue on your current path or to take on the challenge of being a revolutionary leader who connects, inspires, and unites Americans in the goal of shared prosperity. The best leaders throughout history are renowned not just for their victories but also for their legacy of advancing peace, harmony, and selflessness.
Today, more than ever, the world is watching with open eyes. The era when narratives could be controlled by a few is fading, as people protest, observe, and demand transparency. In this world of constant communication, no conflict goes unseen. The Holy Land a place where prophets, including Christ, walked, and where people of all Abrahamic faiths have long sought peace should remain a sacred ground of unity, not division. Yet, it has become the centre of a humanitarian crisis that defies the very values all people hold dear. For generations, the United States has lent its power to global events, yet it must now ask: to what end?
The Gaza crisis has revealed the devastation that today’s warfare has on innocent civilians. Entire communities have been demolished, millions have been relocated, and many people have died. Families are left to mourn in the shadow of devastation while infrastructure that should support life has been destroyed. Resistance is not terrorism. It will not go away; it is a natural reaction to misery and persecution. But the true cure to this cycle is not more force; it is love, unity, and understanding. Yes, the Jewish people have a right to their homeland and to a future free of fear, but how can this be achieved when land is taken and deception used, driving the conflict further? Security cannot be built on exclusion; it must be built on justice.
The path to peace lies in a fair and lasting resolution. A two-state solution or a single, undivided state where equality is upheld must happen. The walls of hatred, injustice, and suffering must come down, allowing everyone to live in peace, regardless of race or religion. It’s time for change.
The Call to Leadership
Now is the time for Trump to rise to the challenge and make a stand one that does not perpetuate division, but fosters unity. The future of the Middle East, of America, and of the world depends on the leadership he chooses to embody. Will he remain the divisive figure of his past, or will he take this moment to build something greater something that reflects the true values of leadership, compassion, and justice?
Only time will tell.
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