Chaos

I watched an interview with Canadian Foreign Minister Mélanie Joly (available on YouTube). She discussed the tariffs, insults, and overall disrespect by US officials in the current administration towards Canada. The interview is quite revealing as Canada has historically been one of our strongest allies (probably the strongest ever). But the most disturbing revelation she made is that Canada now views US as a threat and plans to seek alliances with other global players, including European countries, Japan, South Korea and Mexico. Consider this and let it sink in: just a month into a new administration, our most trusted ally and friend with whom we share over 5,000 miles of border, is our largest trading partner, and a country with which we share a deep bond beyond economics—now sees US as a threat! Canada perceives this as a legitimate concern, interpreting it as more than just another "how can I create more chaos" scenario. Foreign Minister Joly said "it appears to them that the US intends to weaken Canada with the aim of annexing it as the 51st State." Canada views this not merely as a trade war, but as a direct assault on their sovereignty!

I am no longer shocked by the chaos I witness and hear from the White House these days. But it cannot be normalized, this chaotic style of governance and decision-making does not benefit US, as it only fosters fear, instability, uncertainty, confusion, and division (as if we need more things to divide US). Each administration deserves the opportunity to implement its agenda, but there is a reasonable expectation that there will be some method to the madness, some coherent messaging to help everyone understand, whether they agree or not. Yet, we have seen none of that, we have only witnessed manufactured crisis that have caused chaos both home and abroad, and if the next four years mirror the first month, which seems likely, the American people and our global reputation will suffer. I hope not irreparably, but there will certainly be lasting effects. We will not be viewed as a reliable ally and certainly not be recognized as the leader of the free world, nor would we deserve this title or even be in the conversation!

If America First means intimidating/bullying everyone including our allies, into complying with our heavy handed demands, being an economic terrorist, enacting policies without considering potential consequences and drawbacks, destabilizing global commerce and markets, breaking alliances, instilling fear and confusion, neglecting the impact on People while dismantling federal agencies, isolating the U.S. from the global community, and aligning with the worldview of known autocratic leaders, then it is a flawed and chaotic concept that does not represent US. However, if America First means our leaders are measured in their approach to decisions while rolling out policies that affect all Americans, is even tempered when dealing with our allies, acts as an honest broker in helping to solve world problems, and have a solid understanding of the Constitution's emphasis on a government for and by the People, then it's a positive direction! Unfortunately, I don't feel this is our current situation.

We have the right to express our opinions and oppose any policies or decisions we believe are more harmful than beneficial to US. When our most reliable ally and neighbor begins to view US as a threat rather than a friend, we must pay attention and realize that this is abnormal and, more importantly, dangerous. This is not US and we deserve better from the current administration! From the Canadian National Anthem: "O Canada! Our home and native land! True patriot love in all of us command. With glowing hearts we see thee rise, The True North strong and free!" Canada, the American people did not consent to this, and we acknowledge your frustration with US. We hope that as we navigate through this chaos, you will not give up on US, and somehow our relationship will become even stronger in the future!