Why Trump 2.0 matters: Insights from a Texas campaign trail
President Trump engaging with Texas Republicans in Austin in October 2024 just prior to his appearance on the Joe Rogan Experience.
As someone deeply invested in the realm of international business and policy, having been an international politics professor who lived overseas for 10 years and having run for the Texas House, I've seen firsthand the implications of national leadership on both domestic and international fronts. Donald Trump's 2024 victory was not just a political event; it was a statement of intent, one that I believe will steer America towards a path of strength, prosperity, and security.
Here’s why I campaigned for Trump, and why his win is of profound importance.
The "Peace Through Strength" Doctrine
One of the main reasons I supported Trump in 2024 is his adherence to the "peace through strength" philosophy.
I believe I have both a historical and pragmatic understanding of international relations. The Peace through Strength doctrine has been utilized by numerous U.S. presidents, from George Washington to Ronald Reagan, where a strong military posture deters potential aggressors. It isn’t just a catchy slogan; it's a proven strategy for deterring aggression and maintaining international order. Trump's first term demonstrated this when adversaries like North Korea paused their nuclear tests following his show of force, and when his administration's strong stance against Iran kept the region from further destabilizing.
Campaigning for Trump involved explaining to voters how this approach could prevent conflicts rather than America engaging in them. It meant highlighting how his policies aimed at bolstering defense capabilities and encouraging our allies to meet their NATO spending commitments can lead to a more balanced global security landscape. Again, for someone who has studied and taught history and international relations and who works with both domestic and foreign aviation and aerospace companies, my strategy aligns with Trump's strategy and belief that a strong military presence can be a deterrent rather than an instigator of conflict.
Economic Policies and National Sovereignty
Trump's “America First” policy, which I vocalized on the campaign trail, is rooted in his focus on national sovereignty, smarter spending, and economic self-interest. Our policies must emphasize prioritizing American interests not just for the next four years but for decades to come. Whether its energy or critical minerals, America cannot allow other countries, especially our adversaries, to dominate certain industries or materials that America needs for our future prosperity and security.
Cultural and National Identity
Trump's 2024 campaign spoke to the heart of America's cultural identity. Having grown up in New Jersey, but now a Texan, I can tell you that Trump’s speeches often celebrated our “overall” traditional values, patriotism, and the pioneer spirit that defines America. Our cultural heritage is foundational to our national strength. Moreover, America can maintain our core values while still being inclusive and forward-looking.
The Personal Experience
Personally, being on the campaign trail for Trump and others was an enlightening journey. It wasn’t just about policy advocacy; it was about connecting with people on a human level. The rallies, the door-to-door canvassing, and the countless discussions at local gatherings were not merely campaign activities; they were dialogues about America's future.
There was a palpable sense of community, of shared goals, and a collective hope for a return to what many perceive as a lost era of American dominance and pride. We saw this play out in the election results. This experience reinforced my belief in the importance of robust leadership that isn't afraid to stand firm on issues of national interest, whether it's trade, immigration, or defense.
Looking Forward
Trump's win, from my perspective, is a step towards recalibrating America’s standing in the world. It’s about ensuring that our nation is not just seen as a superpower but acts as one, with policies that reflect our capabilities and intentions. For Texas, and indeed for America, this election was about more than politics; it was about reaffirming our path to a secure, prosperous, and culturally vibrant future. As a foreign policy expert and business owner that assists companies based in allied countries, I am committed to supporting initiatives that align with Trump’s vision, ensuring that Texas and America continue to thrive in a world where we lead by example, not by exception.
