Donald Trump attends the Trump Organization civil fraud trial, in New York State Supreme Court in the Manhattan borough of New York City, U.S., December 7, 2023. REUTERS/Mike Segar/File Photo
German Ambassador Warns of Potential Challenges with Incoming Trump Administration
Germany’s ambassador to the United States, Andreas Michaelis, has raised concerns over the potential implications of President-elect Donald Trump’s second term. In a confidential briefing document dated January 14 and reviewed by Reuters, Michaelis predicted significant changes to U.S. governance, media, and law enforcement.
Alleged Concentration of Power
The document outlines a vision of “maximum disruption” by Trump, suggesting a shift toward consolidating power in the presidency at the expense of Congress and federal states. It warns of a redefinition of the constitutional order, which could see the independence of key institutions—such as law enforcement and the media—diminished.
The document states:
“Basic democratic principles and checks and balances will be largely undermined, the legislature, law enforcement, and media will be robbed of their independence and misused as a political arm. Big Tech will be given co-governing power.”
Concerns Over Judicial and Federal Oversight
Michaelis highlighted Trump’s reliance on the judiciary, particularly the U.S. Supreme Court, which has recently expanded presidential powers. However, the ambassador noted that even critics of the court believe it would act to prevent extreme overreach.
The document emphasizes Trump’s potential control over the Department of Justice and the FBI as instrumental to his goals, including deportation efforts, targeting political adversaries, and achieving legal immunity. It also raises the possibility of invoking federal powers under the guise of combating “insurrection” or “invasion,” which could include domestic military deployment—a move governed by the 1878 Posse Comitatus Act.
Freedom of Speech and Big Tech Involvement
The briefing suggests that Trump’s administration might seek to redefine First Amendment protections. It accuses Trump and billionaire Elon Musk, owner of the social media platform X, of actions perceived as stifling dissent, such as lawsuits, criminal threats, and manipulation of online algorithms.
“One is using lawsuits, threatening criminal prosecution and license revocation, the other is having algorithms manipulated and accounts blocked,” Michaelis wrote.
Musk’s recent endorsements of Germany’s far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party ahead of the February 23 national election have been contentious in Berlin. However, the German government has refrained from taking unified action against Musk’s platform.
Historical Context and Diplomatic Challenges
The document reflects lingering tensions from Trump’s first term, during which Germany faced U.S. tariffs and criticism for not meeting NATO defense spending targets. Michaelis’s assessment indicates a cautious approach by Berlin, with an emphasis on working closely with the incoming administration despite these challenges.
Official Responses
The German Foreign Ministry underscored its commitment to maintaining strong U.S.-Germany relations, stating:
“U.S. voters chose Trump in a democratic election, and we will work closely with the new U.S. administration in the interests of Germany and Europe.”
Trump’s transition team did not immediately comment on the ambassador’s assessment.
Looking Ahead
The report underscores a potential shift in U.S. governance and international relations, with significant implications for global diplomacy. Germany, alongside other allies, may face adjustments in navigating its partnership with the U.S. under the evolving leadership approach of Trump’s administration.
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