Global Leaders Say Midterms Not Enough to Restore US Trust
Businesses and citizens abroad report that a single election has not repaired damage from tariffs, immigration policy, and foreign conflicts.
By Chioma Brooks ·
Seventy-seven million Americans voted to elect Donald Trump to a second term, a figure that anchors the current global reaction to the recent midterm elections. Although voters flipped control of both houses of Congress to the Democrats, international observers say this shift has not yet repaired the damage done to the United States' reputation over the past two years.
The change in power leaves many abroad skeptical that the new congressional majority will check the president's influence. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz noted that Trump has largely governed without Congress for the past two years. He questioned why that dynamic should change now that the opposition party holds the seats.
For businesses, the uncertainty remains a primary concern. Hamish McIntyre, president of the National Farmers' Federation in Australia, said the midterm result is unlikely to fundamentally change U.S. tariff policy. Australian farmers are currently dealing with diesel prices inflated by the Iran war, contributing to a government forecast of a 39 percent drop in large farm profits. McIntyre added that the election does not prevent the administration from continuing its trade agenda.
Manufacturers in China face similar doubts. Danny Lau, whose aluminum factory in Dongguan pays a tariff of nearly 81 percent on orders from American clients, hopes the new congressional balance will stop further increases. However, he does not expect the current tariffs to be reversed immediately. Michael Lu, CEO of Brothersbox in southern China, said political tensions remain elevated after the earlier trade war. He does not expect drastic changes in Washington's stance against China, where the U.S. accounts for roughly 20 percent of his company's business.
Immigrants and future residents also face stalled plans. Ambika, an Indian IT worker in America, said recent visa policy changes have left her worried. She does not know if the midterm results will lead to policy changes that benefit those who want to move to the U.S. She is currently visiting family in India while deciding her next steps.
Swiss business leader Ivan Slatkine said the election shows American institutions remain robust. However, he cautioned that the America First concept is not going to be abandoned anytime soon. He doubts the new majority will reverse all decisions made by the president. These views reflect a widespread sense that consistent action, rather than a single vote, is required to rebuild international confidence.
