Would Niccolo Machiavelli Consider Donald Trump as a Failure?

From a historical and societal perspective, Niccolo Machiavelli and Donald Trump are separated by more than four centuries and exist within vastly different political contexts. Nonetheless, based on Machiavelli's general advice and the actions of Trump, it's reasonable to conclude that Machiavelli would not have endorsed Trump as a successful politician.

Machiavelli's Advice on Virtue and Integrity

Machiavelli advocated for the cultivation of the appearance of virtue, emphasizing the importance of reputation and image in politics. Donald Trump, on the other hand, has consistently avoided pretense and has openly displayed his flaws and strengths. This directness, while it may gain support among certain segments, does not align with Machiavelli's teachings on the necessity of appearance and the balanced presentation of oneself in public.

Reining in Cruelty and Greed

Machiavelli also advised against unnecessary cruelty, stupidity, and greed. However, Trump has been known to use these qualities to advance his interests, often at the expense of others. This approach might have some merit in creating a sense of loyalty and commitment within his base, but Machiavelli would likely point out that such tactics have inherent limitations, as proven in the 2020 election.

Statesmen of Vision vs. Egotistical Leaders

Machiavelli held great admiration for statesmen who had broader visions and aspirations beyond personal gain. In contrast, Trump's focus on short-term gains and personal advancement would not align with Machiavelli's ideals. Trump's actions in the 2020 election, which emulated many despotic leaders from history, further suggest that Machiavelli would find little reason to commend him as a successful political figure.

The Success of Biden's Puppet Masters

Machiavelli appreciated individuals who used ruthless means to maintain power. While Trump demonstrated ruthlessness, his ultimate failure would not have garnered Machiavelli's approval. In the case of Joe Biden, many of his puppet masters and advisors would be considered successful by Machiavelli. The fear cultivated by the media, social media, left-wing extremists under the guise of BLM and Defund the Police, and the general climate of distrust and fear about issues like the economy, elections, and the Russians, would have resonated with Machiavelli's philosophy of instilling fear to maintain control.

The Practical Application of Machiavellian Principles in the 21st Century

The political landscape in the 21st century presents new challenges and restraints on tyranny. The U.S. Constitution and the Bill of Rights serve as significant checks on presidential power. An American President cannot use ruthless means to accomplish selfish ends without facing consequences, as evidenced by President Nixon's resignation during the Watergate scandal. Moreover, the 2020 election saga, which aligns with Machiavellian principles in some respects, does not align with the U.S. legal framework. Election fraud, while potentially beneficial in a Machiavellian context, is illegal and contrary to the U.S. Constitution and Bill of Rights.

Therefore, in the context of a democratic system with rule of law and constitutional checks and balances, Machiavelli's political philosophy is less applicable. In a country governed by laws and rights, a successful politician must adhere to legal and moral standards that go beyond the pragmatic use of fear and ruthlessness.

In conclusion, Niccolo Machiavelli’s principles are more suited to authoritarian and tyrannical regimes. In the democratic framework of the United States, leaders like Trump, despite their seeming success in eliciting fear and loyalty, ultimately fail to meet the criteria of a successful politician according to Machiavelli's standards. Intelligence and morality in the U.S. context would render any adherence to Machiavelli's views as irrelevant and impractical.