Introduction

During the 2016 election, expectations for Donald Trump varied widely among both his supporters and critics.

Supporters' Goals

Many Trump supporters had specific goals for his presidency, including the reinvigoration of the American job market and a return to a time they believed was more prosperous. However, the outcome of his presidency often fell short of these visions.

Unfulfilled Projections

Some supporters expected Trump to restore jobs lost due to automation and the decline of certain industries. Unfortunately, their hopes were not met. Others believed in a return to the perceived glory days of the 1950s, characterized by conformity and traditional values. This idealized era included cultural norms like women being portrayed as domestic Stepford wives and LGBTQ identities being considered mental illnesses.

In-Office Missteps and Expectations

Many who paid close attention to Trump’s rhetoric and actions had more complex and dark expectations. They anticipated a government characterized by racism, misogyny, homophobia, corruption, and an erosion of democratic principles. They feared a destructive stance towards international politics and economics, as well as a loss of American influence and global standing.

Specific Missed Expectations

A government shutdown over a border wall that would not be effective due to the possibility of tunnels, airplanes, and boats being used, and the majority of smuggling occurring at border checkpoints.

Active engagement with Russia, Turkey, Saudi Arabia, and Ukraine leading to political scandals, accusations, and eventual impeachment proceedings.

Efforts to illegally blackmail a foreign country into tampering with the 2020 election by withholding aid, a situation he had no authority to control, potentially jeopardizing national security.

No preparation for potential pandemics, resulting in the dismissal of pandemic response teams and plans, causing significant delays in public health responses and thousands of preventable deaths.

The suggestion of injecting disinfectant into lung tissue as a method of treating the virus, a grossly irresponsible and scientifically unfounded statement.

Strategies and Tactics

Despite all these challenges, Trump consistently employed strategies to mitigate negative perceptions. He maintained that perceptions of reality were false, shifted the focus away from criticism, and expressed anger and blame on others, particularly Obama and Hillary Clinton.

Final Harbinger of Regrets

One of the most harrowing predictions was that Trump would admit no wrongdoing, apologize for his actions, or take steps to rectify the damage he caused. Instead, he reinforced the idea that honesty and accountability are signs of weakness, a lesson learned from his father's teachings during his formative years.