With Donald Trump's return to the political forefront, American and global observers are bracing for the potential ramifications of his second term on U.S. policy. His recent threats against Colombia and ambitious appointments around health policy signal significant shifts could reshape the nation's priorities and international relations.
Last weekend, things escalated dramatically between the U.S. and Colombia. After Colombia's refusal to allow military flights transporting U.S. detainees, Trump unleashed aggressive threats on social media, imposing tariffs on Colombian exports—initially set at 25 percent and later bumped to 50 percent—putting strain on what has long been viewed as a partnership.
Though the focus understandably fell upon the crippling tariffs on staples like coffee, the more cryptic part of Trump's threats, involving the full imposition of the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) sanctions, caught the eye of economic analysts. Such sanctions could mean treating Colombia as an adversary rather than as an ally, raising alarms about the use of American economic might.
“The proposed banking sanctions went a giant leap farther, toying with what, in economic policy, has often been called the ‘nuclear option,’” noted Patrick Chovanec, echoing the fears among those who recognize the fragility of dollar hegemony. If the U.S. government perceives needs to wield economic actions casually against allies, the world might re-evaluate its reliance on the U.S. dollar.
The talk of potential banking sanctions leaves many wondering: what happens if dollar holders begin seeking alternatives? A rapid retreat from dollar reliance, dubbed as “rapid unscheduled disassembly” of U.S. influence, could cascade swiftly, bring about severe economic consequences, and push America’s standard of living lower.
Although Trump seems to have resolved the immediate standoff with Colombia for now, the ease with which he resorts to threats raises questions about future engagements with both friends and foes alike. Experts warn of troubling precedents forming if aggressive tactics become routine.
Simultaneously, the Trump administration's shakeup extends beyond just foreign policy. The president-elect has cast significant shadows over the appointment of key figures to governmental roles, composing what observers refer to as his “blacklist.” Following the midterms, Trump took to social media to criticize some former allies, labeling personalities from John Bolton to Liz Cheney as unfit for future service under his leadership.
On Truth Social, he declared, “It would be helpful if you would not send, or recommend to us, people who worked with, or are endorsed by…” casting doubt on those previously integral to U.S. foreign and defense strategies. Bolton, who once served as national security adviser, expressed explicit fears about Trump’s potential for missteps during this term, warning of the “risk of an international crisis of the 19th-century variety.”
The former administration's decisions about war, diplomacy, and national security will certainly echo within Trump’s agenda again as he solidifies his cabinet with loyal supporters committed to his “America First” doctrine. Addressing this loyalty phenomenon, Bolton added, “I think what Trump wants from his advisors is fealty rather than loyalty.” Such subservience may lead to unchallenged decision-making, putting the U.S. and global allies at risk.
Meanwhile, whispers around health policy grow louder with the nomination of Robert F. Kennedy Jr. to lead the Department of Health and Human Services. His history of dismissing vaccinations and proposing radical changes—like potentially replacing up to 600 employees at the NIH—leads many to fear turmoil could disrupt established health systems.
Bertagnolli, who served under President Biden, highlighted the potential dangers of Kennedy's approach: “To think we would eliminate vaccination is frankly frightening.” Her perspective sheds light on the worries surrounding the continuity of research agency goals focused on public health.
Kennedy's platform to “Make America Healthy Again” asks for scrupulous evaluation of chronic diseases and environmental toxins. So, how far would he push changes? Experts reflect on the risk inherent if his ideas lead to drastic measures devoid of the scientific backing traditionally upheld within health institutions.
Looking at all angles, Trump’s second term has the potential to radically redefine U.S. foreign and domestic policies. A fabric of threats, aggressive sanctions, and health reformation could render lasting shifts both at home and on the global stage. Marcos of impending financial instability and health adjustments could affect millions directly, creating waves of uncertainty as traditional alliances could be tested.
Whether this new chapter marks the start of America asserting its interests for the long term or manifests as chaotic sabotage of established protocols remains to be seen. The world is poised for what’s next, as Americans and international partners face the consequences of Trump’s strategies.