Sir, - Like many others, I have been grappling with Donald Trump’s impact on American democracy. Yet, paradoxically, my opposition to his politics has deepened my engagement with the American political system. This discomfort has sparked a more critical examination of what truly constitutes effective democratic leadership. Mr Trump’s presidency, despite its divisiveness, may yield an unexpected benefit for both American and global democracy. By compelling citizens to confront fundamental questions about leadership, governance and civic duty, it has catalysed a crucial dialogue about democratic resilience.
As John Stuart Mill argued in On Liberty, engaging with opposing viewpoints not only clarifies our own convictions but strengthens our understanding of democratic institutions.
Perhaps this is democracy’s silver lining: opposition often awakens civic consciousness and renews our commitment to protecting and enhancing democratic values. – Yours, etc,
ENDA CULLEN,
Tony O’Reilly, Nell McCafferty, Ian Bailey and more: 50 people who died in 2024
Men more likely than women to ‘keep unwanted gifts’
Restaurant of the year, best value and Michelin predictions: Our reviewer’s top picks of 2024
‘I personally only come here for the ladies’: Fog hits racing but not youthful glamour at Leopardstown
Armagh.
Sir, – It looks like Donald Trump is trying to swamp the drain. – Yours, etc,
FINTAN CADOGAN,
Inniscarra,
Co Cork.