“Trump’s Return Sparks Mixed Reactions: Prof. Femi Mimiko Warns of Global Implications and Domestic Divisions”
“Trump’s Return Sparks Mixed Reactions: Prof. Femi Mimiko Warns of Global Implications and Domestic Divisions”
In his commentary titled “Trump World,” Professor Femi Mimiko expressed his curiosity about the subtle excitement among certain groups regarding Donald Trump’s election victory. Professor Mimiko observed that many people in these circles view the Trump phenomenon—calling it a phenomenon deliberately—through a religious lens. He noted that some of them criticize the liberal leanings of the Democratic Party, arguing that such a stance on freedom might be taken too far by liberal politicians. In contrast, they view Trump as embodying opposing values and representing cultural stability. However, Professor Mimiko emphasized that he believes these people are deeply mistaken in their assessment.
Professor Mimiko argued that Trump exemplifies demagoguery, and as social scientists, he felt a responsibility to see beyond appearances and reach underlying truths. He recalled an incident from about four years prior, where Trump apparently confessed to not reading the Bible and mispronounced “2nd Corinthians” as “Two Corinthians” in an attempt to appear familiar with religious scripture. Professor Mimiko highlighted this as evidence that Trump, in his view, does not genuinely embody the Christian faith as some claim.
Professor Mimiko went on to assert that Trump holds no real convictions and is, instead, a “complete demagogue” who understands what appeals to his white supremacist and evangelical audiences. Professor Mimiko claimed Trump merely echoed what these groups wanted to hear, unlike the French electorate, whom he commended for rejecting nationalist figures. According to Professor Mimiko, the American electorate seemed to embrace Trump’s messages enthusiastically.
Professor Mimiko also pointed out that he and others had previously noted the risks associated with President Joe Biden’s foreign policy team—specifically Anthony Blinken, Jake Sullivan, and Lloyd Austin—in relation to Gaza. He suggested that these policies would harm Biden’s re-election prospects, as the administration’s support of actions in Gaza would alienate many traditional Democratic supporters. Professor Mimiko proposed that a younger, white male candidate could have been a more favorable replacement for Biden, potentially appealing to certain white supremacist factions who might otherwise be hesitant to support Trump. However, he argued that the Democratic Party failed to address these “realist currents,” ultimately leading to its downfall.
Looking ahead, Professor Mimiko suggested that Trump’s return to office could bring challenges not only to American democracy but also to vulnerable regions worldwide. He speculated that the end of the war in Ukraine might align with Vladimir Putin’s desires, given Trump’s re-election. Regarding the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, Professor Mimiko foresaw Trump siding heavily with Prime Minister Netanyahu and Israeli interests, which he feared could lead to further challenges for Palestinians in occupied territories.
Concluding his remarks, Professor Mimiko anticipated that the upcoming years under Trump’s leadership would be challenging, forecasting a turbulent term. He ended by welcoming readers to “Trump’s World,” hinting at the complex global and national impacts he expects to unfold under Trump’s renewed presidency.
