German leaders had some choice words for Trump.
Germany’s ambassador to the U.S., Andreas Michaelis, recently issued a stark warning about President-elect Donald Trump’s upcoming administration, claiming that it could “undermine” core democratic principles and bring about “maximum disruption.” His comments, made in a confidential briefing document, described the incoming Trump administration’s agenda as a dangerous shift towards greater presidential power at the expense of Congress and the states. Michaelis expressed concerns that the traditional checks and balances in American democracy would be eroded under Trump’s leadership.
The ambassador’s document criticized what he saw as the centralization of power within the presidency, with the potential for legislative, law enforcement, and media independence to be undermined. He further claimed that Big Tech companies might be granted unprecedented political influence, functioning as co-governors alongside elected officials. Michaelis also pointed to the relationship between Trump and tech billionaire Elon Musk, suggesting that Musk’s support for the president-elect could signal a new era of political control through corporate influence, with the potential for major changes to the First Amendment.
Additionally, Michaelis warned that Trump might use legal maneuvers or even military force to push his political agenda, including the possibility of deploying federal troops within the U.S. under the guise of addressing “insurrection” or “invasion.” This assertion, while alarming, clashes with existing legal limitations such as the Posse Comitatus Act, which restricts federal military involvement in domestic law enforcement unless Congress intervenes.
Despite the ambassador’s harsh critique, the German foreign ministry has acknowledged that Trump won the election and has pledged to cooperate with the incoming administration for the benefit of both Germany and Europe. While Michaelis’ concerns reflect a European perspective on American governance, it is important to remember that the strength of America’s democratic system lies in its ability to adapt and thrive, even in the face of challenges. The real test will be whether the Trump administration can balance its ambitious goals with the constitutional checks and balances that define American liberty.