In his return to power, President-elect Donald Trump’s Cabinet nominations are proving to be as contentious as his campaign promises. The selections of Congressman Matt Gaetz for attorney general, former Democratic presidential candidate Tulsi Gabbard as director of national intelligence, and Fox News anchor Pete Hegseth as defense secretary have sparked immediate backlash within Washington. While these choices align with Trump’s “drain the swamp” rallying cry, they have left some Republican senators reeling. For Trump, however, outrage seems intentional—a calculated move to affirm his anti-establishment agenda and display unyielding loyalty to his base.

Gaetz for Attorney General: A Controversial Choice

The nomination of Gaetz, one of Trump’s staunchest allies and a figure dogged by legal controversy, is perhaps the boldest of Trump’s recent appointments. Gaetz resigned from Congress shortly before the announcement, a move that avoided a House Ethics Committee report on allegations involving misconduct, improper gifts, and attempts to obstruct investigations. While Gaetz denies any wrongdoing, his nomination is poised to become a litmus test for Trump’s intent in the Justice Department.

In announcing his pick, Trump highlighted the need to end the “partisan weaponization” of the justice system, signaling his desire for an attorney general who will aggressively defend his administration and target perceived enemies. Gaetz’s support for disbanding the FBI and DOJ unless they “come to heel” aligns with Trump’s skepticism toward these institutions, furthering the view that his administration will seek retribution against what Trump has described as a “deep state” bent on undermining him.

The potential confirmation battle over Gaetz will test Senate Republicans, many of whom are already balking at the nomination. Senators Lisa Murkowski and Susan Collins, two of Trump’s GOP critics, expressed strong reservations, with Murkowski dismissing Gaetz as “unserious.” Newly elected Senate Majority Leader John Thune is already facing pressure to support the nomination—a trial that could shape his relationship with a president-elect eager to maintain absolute control over his party.

Tulsi Gabbard: A Loyalty Pick for Intelligence Chief

Gabbard’s nomination as director of national intelligence is similarly emblematic of Trump’s strategy. A former Democratic congresswoman with a record of challenging her party, Gabbard has voiced skepticism about U.S. intelligence agencies and supported Trump’s claims of political targeting. Known for doubting U.S. assertions that Syrian President Bashar al-Assad committed war crimes, Gabbard has been criticized by both parties as overly sympathetic to authoritarian regimes. Her nomination is seen as a rebuke to intelligence officials Trump has accused of undermining him since his first term.

By placing Gabbard in a role historically tasked with upholding objective intelligence, Trump underscores his desire to reshape the intelligence community in line with his worldview. Her appointment is a nod to Trump’s base, who view her as a disruptive force capable of overhauling an intelligence structure they believe has worked against the president.

Hegseth at the Pentagon: Culture Warrior or Defense Secretary?

The choice of Pete Hegseth for defense secretary further emphasizes Trump’s alignment with figures who reflect his political ideology over deep expertise. Though Hegseth is a veteran of the Iraq and Afghanistan wars, his role as a Fox News commentator—often critical of military diversity programs and progressive Pentagon policies—speaks to his appeal to Trump’s conservative supporters. Critics argue that Hegseth lacks the strategic and diplomatic experience typically expected of a defense secretary, potentially leaving him at a disadvantage in international crises.

Nevertheless, Hegseth’s views align with Trump’s priorities, making him an ideal candidate to champion a culture shift within the Pentagon. His nomination signals Trump’s intent to reshape the military into a less politically diverse institution that reflects the administration’s conservative values.

Loyalty and “God-Tier Trolling”

Commentators see these picks as more than policy statements; they are also calculated provocations. Anthony Scaramucci, Trump’s former communications director, described the nominations as deliberate “trolling” designed to unsettle Washington. Senator John Fetterman likened the Gaetz nomination to “god-tier trolling,” indicating that these moves are meant to energize Trump’s base by challenging the norms of governance and defying liberal critics.

The nominations resonate with Trump’s supporters, who view these figures as agents of disruption. Many of these voters agree with Trump’s critique of U.S. institutions as biased against him, a sentiment galvanized during his first term amid investigations into Russian election interference and Trump’s impeachment proceedings. For Trump’s base, the new administration represents an opportunity to dismantle the status quo they perceive as corrupt and self-serving.

Rubio’s Moderation and an Early Test of Senate Support

Not all of Trump’s choices are confrontational. His pick of Senator Marco Rubio as secretary of state signals a tempered approach in at least one corner of his Cabinet. Rubio, a seasoned voice on foreign policy, especially regarding China, is seen as a reasonable selection likely to garner bipartisan support. Yet even Rubio’s role may hinge on his willingness to embrace Trump’s “America First” ideology, which has reshaped traditional U.S. alliances and stances on global trade.

The Senate’s response to Gaetz’s nomination in particular will set the tone for its relationship with the Trump administration. Trump has already begun pressing GOP senators to swiftly confirm his nominees or, if obstructed, use recess appointments to bypass the Senate. This early clash will reveal the Senate’s willingness to assert its constitutional role against a president who has, in the past, overridden established norms to achieve his goals.

A Prelude to Trump’s Second Term

These nominations preview an administration determined to dismantle institutional obstacles and enact a governance style unbound by traditional checks and balances. With each Cabinet selection, Trump makes clear that loyalty, ideological alignment, and a willingness to challenge the establishment are paramount. This approach resonates with a significant segment of the electorate, promising a volatile tenure as Trump and his appointees pursue what he calls a “second term of retribution.”

As Trump’s inauguration nears, the question remains: Will any Republican senators challenge his choices, or will they rally around a president who sees his election as a mandate to defy convention? The outcome will shape Trump’s second term and redefine the boundaries of executive authority in the modern presidency.

President Joe Biden faces the challenge of reassuring international partners uncertain about the trajectory of U.S. foreign policy as Donald Trump, with his assertive “America First” agenda, prepares to assume the presidency again. As Biden heads to Peru and Brazil for key economic summits, he faces questions from leaders anxious about potential shifts in U.S. commitments to global cooperation on climate, trade, and security.

Biden’s itinerary includes two influential summits—the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) forum in Lima and the Group of 20 (G20) meeting in Rio de Janeiro. Amid talks focused on trade and sustainable development, the president’s primary mission will be to strengthen alliances and reassure U.S. allies, who watched the U.S. pull out of pivotal international agreements during Trump’s first term.

The APEC summit, which unites 21 economies across the Asia-Pacific region, is set to emphasize free trade and economic cooperation. While Biden will highlight partnerships strengthened during his administration, especially with Japan, South Korea, Australia, and the Philippines, doubts about continuity loom large. At a trilateral meeting with South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol and Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba, Biden aims to underscore that recent strides in regional security and economic cooperation are lasting.

National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan previewed Biden’s strategy, stating the president intends to remind leaders that “America’s allies are vital to America’s national security.” He emphasized that Biden will make clear that these alliances “multiply our capability” and contribute to shared causes—positioning U.S. alliances in the Asia-Pacific as an enduring commitment, despite the impending administration change.

At APEC, Biden will also hold what is expected to be his final meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping, as the two leaders grapple with deepening complexities in U.S.-China relations. With Trump already appointing prominent China critics to key positions, Biden’s dialogue with Xi is likely to focus on ensuring stable diplomatic channels as the U.S. potentially adopts a more adversarial stance. Trump’s previous administration saw tariffs, trade barriers, and military posturing become central to U.S.-China policy, and Biden’s more cooperative approach could face significant changes.

China, meanwhile, is positioning itself as a symbol of stability, with Xi promoting Beijing’s infrastructure investment across Latin America, a region critical to his vision of expanding Chinese influence. Xi is set to inaugurate a $1.3 billion megaport in Peru, showcasing China’s economic commitments to Latin American nations and reinforcing Beijing’s message of reliable leadership. Chinese state media emphasizes that Xi’s recent engagement in 11 Latin American countries contrasts with U.S. foreign policy shifts, signaling China’s intent to capitalize on perceived U.S. inconsistencies.

As Biden arrives in Rio, he plans to emphasize American leadership on global poverty, climate change, and labor rights. The G20, representing the world’s largest economies, offers a platform for Biden to advocate policies targeting shared global challenges. While in Brazil, he will endorse President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva’s Global Alliance Against Hunger and Poverty initiative, aiming to accelerate efforts to end hunger by 2030.

However, many of Biden’s initiatives may have limited longevity under a Trump administration, particularly in areas like climate policy. Biden’s stop in Manaus—the first by a sitting U.S. president in the Brazilian Amazon—will include discussions with Indigenous leaders on rainforest conservation, underscoring his administration’s commitment to environmental stewardship. Yet, Trump’s previous skepticism toward international climate agreements casts doubt on the durability of Biden’s green agenda.

Biden’s farewell tour ultimately underscores the uncertainty facing U.S. allies, many of whom viewed his administration as a stabilizing counterbalance to the previous administration’s policies. As Josh Lipsky of the Atlantic Council notes, Biden is expected to reinforce that “American engagement around the world” is an enduring ideal. According to Lipsky, Biden believes that “not one election or one president can undercut” the U.S.’s global role.

While Biden’s message is intended to project confidence, analysts caution that, for many leaders, the reality is more complex. Victor Cha, president of the Geopolitics and Foreign Policy Department at the Center for Strategic and International Studies, suggests that Biden’s counterparts are likely to respond with “lamenting, speculation, [and] guessing” as they try to anticipate Trump’s policy moves.

As he heads back to Washington, Biden leaves behind a mixed legacy of achievements and challenges, with a U.S. policy landscape on the brink of a significant shift. Amid Xi’s bids to expand Chinese influence in Latin America and a Trump administration poised to recalibrate U.S. priorities, Biden’s trip may serve as a final reminder to allies of the value of American diplomacy, even as questions about its future linger.

President-elect Donald Trump has chosen Senator Marco Rubio, a prominent voice on foreign policy and former presidential rival, as his nominee for Secretary of State. Trump’s statement on Wednesday emphasized Rubio’s dedication to defending American interests and fostering alliances, positioning him as a key figure in Trump’s vision of a more assertive U.S. foreign policy.

Rubio’s nomination underscores Trump’s “America First” approach, which the senator has gradually aligned with over recent years. Known for his hawkish stance on China, Rubio has also been a vocal critic of Cuba’s Communist regime and a strong advocate for Israel. His foreign policy perspective, shaped by years on the Senate Foreign Relations and Intelligence Committees, has at times diverged from his fellow Republicans, including his vote against a significant military aid package for Ukraine in April. Rubio has suggested that Ukraine should pursue a negotiated settlement with Russia instead of focusing on reclaiming all lost territories, a view that aligns with Trump’s stance on reducing military involvement abroad.

Rubio’s support for Israel remains unyielding, particularly as tensions continue in the Gaza conflict. Like Trump, he views Hamas as a terrorist group and supports supplying Israel with the resources it needs to combat it.

In his role on Capitol Hill, Rubio has been a staunch critic of Beijing’s actions, particularly on issues of human rights and Hong Kong’s democracy protests, which led China to impose sanctions on him in 2020. He also championed a law to limit imports from China over alleged abuses against Uyghur Muslims and sought to decertify Hong Kong’s U.S. trade offices. These positions could complicate any efforts to sustain diplomatic engagement with China, a priority under the outgoing Biden administration.

While Rubio’s shift from critic to supporter of Trump has marked his recent political trajectory, he is expected to gain Senate confirmation smoothly given the Republican majority. In a show of bipartisan support, Democratic Senator Mark Warner, chairman of the Intelligence Committee, praised Rubio’s expertise, signaling that his appointment could attract approval across party lines.

With this nomination, Rubio will become the first Latino to serve as Secretary of State, bringing a legacy of immigrant heritage to America’s top diplomatic role. His nomination underscores a foreign policy agenda focused on confronting America’s adversaries while reinforcing relationships with longstanding allies.

As the sun set across the tranquil landscape of Somaliland on November 13, 2024, the nation experienced a historic moment as its presidential and party elections concluded without incident. The elections, which began early that morning, wrapped up peacefully by 6:00 PM, highlighting Somaliland’s profound commitment to democratic processes and governance. With results expected on November 21, excitement and anticipation fill the air as citizens and candidates alike await the official announcement.

A Smooth Voting Process

The seamless execution of the election reflects the expertise of Somalilanders in participating in democratic processes. Over one million registered voters took part in this pivotal event, with multiple polling stations strategically positioned to facilitate accessibility across regions. Citizens turned out in impressive numbers, showcasing their dedication to exercising their democratic rights. Voters in Somaliland have long been known for their civility and orderliness at polling stations, ensuring that the electoral process is smooth and efficient. This remarkable turnout and behavior serve not only as an example of civic engagement but also as a reminder of the political maturity that has characterized Somaliland’s election history.

The timely conclusion of voting was followed by the commencement of vote counting in various regions and districts, with candidates and party representatives closely monitoring the process to ensure transparency. The smoothness of the operations can largely be credited to the Somaliland National Electoral Commission (NEC), which has worked tirelessly to promote efficient practices and uphold the integrity of the electoral process.

Commendations for the Electoral Commission

Muse Hassan Yusuf, Chairman of the Electoral Commission, expressed his satisfaction with the orderly conduct of the elections, underscoring the hard work of the commission and its commitment to fostering a democratic environment. “The calm and peaceful execution of this election reflects our society’s commitment to democracy,” Yusuf stated. He called for patience among the populace as the final verification and tallying processes are underway, recommending that citizens await the official results rather than relying on unofficial reports.

It is crucial for the public to be wary of misinformation, particularly on social media platforms, where unverified results and misleading narratives might circulate rapidly. The Chairman reminded Somalilanders to trust the official announcements from the SEC, emphasizing that only they hold the legitimate counts and results from this electoral process. By promoting reliable sources for information, Somaliland can maintain the integrity of its electoral climate and ensure that misinformation does not undermine public trust in the democratic process.

Looking Ahead to the Results

As citizens await the results on November 21, anticipation builds over who will be the sixth president of Somaliland and which political parties will govern for the next decade. This election marks a significant milestone in Somaliland’s democratic journey, reinforcing its unique status as a stable and functioning government in a region often characterized by turmoil.

Somaliland’s commitment to democratic governance positions it as a model for other regions to emulate. The peaceful conduct of this election not only reinforces the trust citizens place in their electoral processes but also sends a strong message to the international community about Somaliland’s dedication to democratic principles.

A Unique Political Environment

The electoral process in Somaliland is a reflection of its unique political environment, where inclusivity and stability go hand in hand. The nation has created a framework that allows for peaceful transfers of power and encourages active citizen engagement in governance. This exceptional characteristic sets Somaliland apart as a beacon of hope in a complex geopolitical landscape, as it continues to demonstrate that democracy can thrive even in challenging circumstances.

In conclusion, the 2024 presidential and party elections in Somaliland stand as a remarkable achievement for the nation and its people. The professionalism of the Electoral Commission, the orderly conduct of voters, and the peaceful atmosphere of polling stations all contribute to a narrative of resilience and hope. As Somalilanders stand by in anticipation of the results, they can take pride in their role as participants in a democratic journey that not only defines their identity but also paves the way for future generations.

The Republican Party has cemented control of the U.S. House of Representatives, securing the critical 218 seats required for a majority. With this victory, the GOP now holds both chambers of Congress and the White House under President-elect Donald Trump, solidifying a unified government that promises sweeping policy changes.

A tight race in Arizona, along with a recent win in California, gave Republicans the necessary seats to claim the House majority, complementing their Senate takeover. This consolidation of power marks a significant shift, positioning Republicans to enact Trump’s ambitious policy goals with minimal resistance. However, thin margins in both chambers mean that managing internal party dynamics may prove challenging as they seek to implement Trump’s vision.

Trump’s Pledge to Transform Washington

President-elect Trump has laid out a far-reaching agenda, promising a major overhaul of federal programs and institutions. His pledges include tax cuts, expansive immigration enforcement, and targeting political opponents. Trump has stated that he intends to “upend” government structures, an ambition made feasible with the support of a Republican-led Congress.

This time around, Trump finds himself leading a transformed Republican Party, molded largely by his “Make America Great Again” movement. Unlike his previous term, where GOP leaders occasionally resisted his agenda, Trump is now supported by a more unified conservative front and a Supreme Court dominated by justices he helped appoint.

House and Senate Prepared to Act on Trump’s Agenda

House Speaker Mike Johnson, backed by Trump’s endorsement, has rallied his party around an aggressive agenda, signaling intentions to dismantle federal programs championed by Democrats in recent years. Johnson, a strong conservative from Louisiana, has called for a “blowtorch” approach to shrinking government influence and upholding Trump’s “America First” policy initiatives. Johnson has mobilized House Republicans with a 100-day legislative plan to assert control over government functions.

Meanwhile, in the Senate, GOP leaders are moving quickly to align with Trump’s plans. Sen. John Thune of South Dakota, newly elected to lead the Senate Republicans, has pledged loyalty to Trump’s vision. Thune’s leadership represents a new chapter for Senate Republicans, who are eager to work with their counterparts in the House to achieve Trump’s legislative goals.

Cabinet Appointments and Judicial Nominations

A Republican majority in the Senate grants Trump leeway in confirming Cabinet members, judicial appointees, and potentially Supreme Court justices. However, some nominations could be contentious. Trump’s decision to nominate Rep. Matt Gaetz, a staunch ally, as attorney general has raised eyebrows, even among Senate Republicans. Gaetz, who faced a House Ethics investigation, is a polarizing figure, and his confirmation could face opposition even within the GOP.

In a move that would reshape Senate norms, Trump has proposed the idea of bypassing Senate votes on appointments during recess. Senate leaders have tentatively agreed to the proposal, though Democrats are expected to contest it. If successful, this would grant Trump more unilateral control over executive appointments, further consolidating his influence.

Challenges of a Narrow Majority

While the GOP now controls the House, a slim majority could complicate Trump’s legislative agenda. Moderate Republicans in swing districts may hesitate to endorse more extreme measures, which could lead to friction within the party. In addition, recent infighting within the GOP suggests that House Speaker Johnson may face challenges in maintaining party unity.

In particular, the House’s far-right faction, emboldened by Trump’s return, is expected to push for ambitious policies, potentially alienating moderate Republicans. This tension could influence the pace and scope of legislative efforts, with Johnson likely needing to balance competing interests within the party.

Democratic Resistance and Future Prospects

House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries is preparing to navigate the new GOP majority by unifying Democrats in opposition. Though Democrats hold little power to block legislation in a Republican-controlled Congress, they aim to remain influential by challenging the most extreme GOP proposals and advocating for policies that align with their platform.

The Republican sweep also raises questions about the future of U.S. governance. Trump’s mandate suggests a potential shift in American policy both domestically and abroad, with implications for immigration, trade, and foreign relations.

As Republicans prepare to reshape the country under Trump’s leadership, the political landscape in Washington is bracing for transformative, and likely contentious, changes. The coming weeks will reveal how effectively the GOP can wield its newly consolidated power to achieve Trump’s far-reaching goals and the extent to which the party can maintain cohesion amid diverse priorities and political pressures.

FBI agents entered the New York home of Polymarket CEO Shayne Coplan, seizing his phone and other electronic devices. The raid follows intense scrutiny of Polymarket, a crypto-powered prediction market that allowed users to bet on the U.S. presidential election outcomes, giving former President Donald Trump a substantial edge over Vice President Kamala Harris, despite polls showing a tight race.

Polymarket, headquartered offshore, has drawn federal attention for allegedly permitting U.S.-based users to engage in betting on the platform, a potential violation of U.S. gambling laws. The Department of Justice (DOJ) has not formally commented on the investigation, but sources close to the case suggest that authorities are scrutinizing Polymarket’s operations for possible breaches of U.S. federal regulations.

A company spokesperson reacted strongly to the raid, calling it “obvious political retribution” by the outgoing administration. They emphasized that Polymarket was only providing “a market that correctly called the 2024 presidential election,” implying that the DOJ’s action could be motivated by Polymarket’s controversial stance during the election. Coplan, however, was not arrested or detained following the seizure of his devices.

Polymarket’s unique position in the election betting market led to further intrigue when a mystery trader, dubbed the “Polymarket whale,” placed sizable bets on Trump, ultimately amassing $46 million in profits. The presence of this high-stakes bettor coincided with Trump’s skyrocketing odds on the platform, which contrasted sharply with prevailing public opinion data.

International authorities are now taking note as well; France’s gambling regulator launched its own inquiry into Polymarket’s compliance with French law following the election. The regulator’s concern underscores broader questions over how the burgeoning intersection of cryptocurrency and online betting can be regulated, particularly in high-profile events like national elections.

As the DOJ investigation unfolds, Polymarket’s role in political betting markets—coupled with the involvement of prominent, mysterious traders—raises larger issues around regulation, transparency, and the legal challenges faced by offshore cryptocurrency-based platforms.

This morning, Somaliland awakens with a palpable sense of optimism and determination as voters across the country head to the polls for a dual election. In a groundbreaking moment for Somalilanders, citizens will not only elect their next president but also determine the political landscape by selecting the three political parties that will dominate governance for the next decade. The importance of this election goes beyond mere leadership; it symbolizes Somaliland’s unwavering commitment to democracy, stability, and peace in a region often fraught with conflict.

A Unique Political Landscape

Somaliland’s electoral process illustrates a unique approach to governance, where political fragmentation is minimized by allowing only three parties to operate at any given time. This system, designed to promote unity and coherence, aims to streamline political discourse and policy-making. As voters cast their ballots for the Waddani party led by Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi Irro, the incumbent Kulmiye party led by President Muse Bihi Abdi, or the Justice and Development Party (UCID) headed by Faisal Ali Warabe, they are not just selecting leaders; they are actively shaping their future.

“This election isn’t just about choosing a leader; it’s about solidifying our political identity,” asserts Hargeisa-based political analyst Abdinasser Ahmed Aden. The stakes are high: the three parties that emerge victorious will guide Somaliland’s policies and represent its people on both local and international stages for the next ten years, potentially determining the trajectory of the region’s development and its quest for international recognition.

Setting New Standards in Electoral Integrity

With over one million registered voters expected to participate at 24,650 polling stations, Somaliland is witnessing an unprecedented voter turnout. To ensure the integrity of the electoral process, Somaliland’s Election Commission has introduced biometric eye-scanning technology at select polling locations—an innovative step forward that underscores their commitment to a fair election. This advancement, coupled with the deployment of more than 2,500 military and police personnel for security, showcases Somaliland’s resolve to maintain peace and stability throughout the electoral process.

The use of such technology reflects a broader commitment to enhancing democratic practices within Somaliland, further setting it apart as a model of stability in the Horn of Africa. Unlike some neighboring regions plagued by violence and unrest, Somaliland’s elections are characterized by a sense of hope and civic responsibility, driven by its citizens’ desire for progress and development.

A Commitment to Peace and Stability

As Somaliland prepares for this critical juncture, the eyes of the world are on its people. Their vibrant engagement in the democratic process serves as a beacon of hope within a region too often defined by its struggles. Somaliland has weathered internal crises and external pressures, yet it has consistently reaffirmed its dedication to peaceful governance and unity. This election embodies that spirit of resilience.

Many Somalilanders view the polls as an opportunity to reinforce their aspirations for peaceful governance and potential future international recognition. The country’s governance structure, a blend of traditional leadership and modern democratic principles, offers a refreshing perspective on what is possible in a contested region.

Inspiring Hope in a Tumultuous Region

The importance of this election extends beyond the borders of Somaliland; it represents a symbol of hope in a tumultuous region. While the Horn of Africa continues to grapple with insecurity, Somaliland stands out as a successful example of democratic engagement, self-governance, and peacebuilding. The elections signify more than just a political event; they encapsulate the dreams of a people who yearn for peace, development, and a rightful place on the global stage.

Through this dual election, Somalilanders are crafting not only their immediate future but also reinforcing their identity as a peaceful, democratic society striving for greater international recognition. As votes are cast today, they do so with the conviction that their collective voice matters, and that their democratic ideals can resonate far beyond their borders.

In conclusion, the election unfolding in Somaliland is a powerful testament to the resilience of its people and the strength of their commitment to democracy. It is an inspiring chapter in the story of Somaliland, one that highlights the potential for peace and stability in the Horn of Africa. As they choose their leaders and shape the path for future governance, Somalilanders are poised to demonstrate to the world that hope, democracy, and peace can flourish even in the most challenging of circumstances.

As Donald Trump prepares to take office once again, questions loom over how his foreign policy will shape the increasingly tense U.S.-China rivalry in Africa. With the former president’s “America First” doctrine and skepticism toward multilateral engagement, Trump’s stance may ultimately determine whether the United States maintains its foothold on the continent or cedes further ground to China, which has become Africa’s largest trading partner and a significant investor in infrastructure.

Revisiting Trump’s Africa Strategy

Although Trump’s first term was marked by limited attention to Africa, former officials argue that his administration recognized China’s growing influence on the continent. Tibor Nagy, Trump’s Assistant Secretary of State for African Affairs, pointed to initiatives like Prosper Africa—a program designed to boost U.S. business involvement in Africa—as evidence of Trump’s awareness of China’s strategic ambitions. According to Nagy, Trump’s team understood that Africa’s youth population surge and its vast mineral resources posed both opportunities and risks. He suggests that a second Trump administration could approach Africa as a battleground for influence, seeing China as an existential threat to U.S. interests.

Nevertheless, skepticism remains. Christian-Geraud Neema, Africa editor for the China-Global South Project, doubts Trump’s sustained commitment to Africa. “Trump didn’t show much interest in Africa,” he noted, predicting a selective focus only on countries whose resources or strategic locations align with U.S. national security priorities. Yun Sun, director of the China Program at the Stimson Center, echoed these sentiments, arguing that a less-engaged U.S. will create a vacuum for China to further consolidate its influence.

China’s Strategic Expansion and the Role of Infrastructure

Under Xi Jinping’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), China has pursued a bold infrastructure agenda across Africa, building railways, ports, and highways. Such projects enhance China’s political clout, expand trade routes, and secure access to vital resources. With many African governments welcoming these investments, China’s influence has continued to grow even as some African leaders voice concerns about debt sustainability.

During Biden’s tenure, the U.S. attempted to counter China’s BRI with projects like the Lobito Corridor, a rail initiative designed to connect Angola, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and Zambia. The project, hailed as one of the most significant U.S.-backed infrastructure undertakings in Africa in decades, aims to offer an alternative to Chinese-led infrastructure efforts. Biden’s administration touted the corridor as a transformative project that would help Africa build autonomous economic links across the continent.

But uncertainty surrounds whether the next administration will maintain the same level of commitment. According to Nigerian analyst Oluwole Ojewale, there is a risk that Trump could pull back from such multilateral initiatives, leaving room for China to expand its presence. Still, Nagy contends that the Lobito Corridor aligns well with Trump’s style, describing it as a “logical” fit for the kind of projects Trump would likely support. If true, this would signal continuity in U.S. engagement, albeit through an “America First” lens that prioritizes tangible returns over broad multilateral commitments.

A Battle Over Strategic Minerals

As the global demand for critical minerals like cobalt and lithium soars, Africa’s reserves have become a focal point for geopolitical competition. China has aggressively pursued mining rights across the continent, establishing itself as a dominant player in strategic mineral supply chains. The United States, which relies on these minerals for high-tech manufacturing and defense, views this as a national security threat.

A Trump-led administration may intensify efforts to secure access to these resources, either by bolstering American investments in African mining or by challenging Chinese influence in mineral-rich regions. Under Trump’s approach, Africa’s value as a strategic partner may be largely transactional, with a primary focus on resource extraction and security rather than development aid or democratic governance.

African Leaders’ Strategic Options

Africa’s leaders, aware of their growing leverage in the U.S.-China rivalry, may attempt to play both superpowers against each other. Kenya’s Raila Odinga, a likely candidate for the African Union Commission chair, has already signaled that Africa can look elsewhere if the U.S. adopts a more isolationist approach. “If [Trump] does not want to work with Africa,” Odinga said, “Africa has got other friends.”

But some analysts, including Yun Sun, caution that this strategy has risks. Sun warns that African nations may face pressure to align with one superpower, potentially compromising their autonomy and strategic interests. African leaders will need to carefully balance these competing interests to avoid becoming pawns in the larger U.S.-China rivalry.

A Tug of War Over Influence and Investment

Historically, Africa has been a secondary concern in U.S. foreign policy, with little variation in approach between administrations. Despite Biden’s efforts to host the 2022 Africa Leaders Summit and emphasize strategic partnerships, analysts argue that U.S. engagement remains sporadic and reactive compared to China’s long-term investments. Should Trump follow an isolationist path in his second term, experts like Neema foresee China capitalizing on the absence, amplifying its influence through partnerships and investments largely free from political strings.

Trump’s stance on multilateralism, epitomized by his America First doctrine, may mean that long-term infrastructure initiatives, such as Biden’s Lobito Corridor project, lack continuity. Yet Nagy argues that Trump’s team understood the significance of Africa’s youth and resources, suggesting that the former president may surprise critics by continuing at least some strategic initiatives.

The Stakes for U.S.-China Rivalry in Africa

Under Trump 2.0, the U.S.-China rivalry in Africa could evolve into a more direct competition for strategic influence, infrastructure control, and resource access. Whether the Trump administration adopts a selective engagement model or pursues a more assertive strategy, African leaders will likely find themselves in a position to negotiate favorable terms from both powers. However, the ultimate trajectory of U.S.-China rivalry on the continent will hinge on whether the U.S. sustains its focus or retreats from the geopolitical race, leaving China with unprecedented latitude to shape Africa’s future.

As Africa grapples with its own rapid transformation, how it navigates this superpower competition could redefine the continent’s role on the global stage.