In a surprising turn of events, Donald Trump’s presidency, which was expected to fuel a global populist revolt against establishment centrists, seems to be backfiring. Many Western democracies are grappling with familiar political challenges like high prices, housing crises, and border control issues, reminiscent of the issues that propelled Trump to power.

Trump’s aggressive tactics such as power grabs, attacks on allies, and tariff wars have stirred resentment both domestically and internationally. Countries like Canada have experienced significant political shifts, with Prime Minister Mark Carney securing an unexpected election victory after distancing himself from Trump’s influence.

Across the globe, leaders are recalibrating their strategies in response to Trump’s disruptive policies. British Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s approval ratings soared due to his firm stance against Trump and support for Ukraine. Similarly, French President Emmanuel Macron found a new foothold by emphasizing European defense needs amidst Trump’s alienation of allies.

While some right-wing parties in Europe initially sought inspiration from Trump’s “America first” approach, backlash over tariffs and Trump-style tactics has hindered their progress. Populist movements face mixed fortunes, with leaders like Italy’s Giorgia Meloni navigating a delicate balance between Trump and Europe.

The uncertainty surrounding Trump’s presidency is influencing upcoming elections in South Korea, Japan, and Australia, where leaders are under pressure to secure trade deals amid the trade wars initiated by the US. As Trump’s divisive policies continue to shape global politics, the future of populist movements and establishment governance remains in flux, with voters demanding tangible change and effective leadership in the face of persistent challenges.