Assessment: National Security Threat Posed by a Second Trump Presidency
March 23, 2023 Knightsbridge
KPI0142023
Research
https://knightsbridge.press
I. Introduction
A. Purpose of the Report
The purpose of this report is to provide an in-depth and comprehensive analysis of the potential national security threats that could be posed by a second term of Donald Trump as President of the United States, should he be elected in 2024. In light of the serious implications for domestic and international security, this assessment seeks to examine the risks associated with his previous violation of the Espionage Act, as well as other geopolitical and strategic concerns that may arise during his potential tenure.
B. Background on Donald Trump's Presidency (2016-2020)
Donald J. Trump, the 45th President of the United States, served his first term from January 20, 2017, to January 20, 2021. Trump's presidency was marked by a series of controversies, policy shifts, and a departure from the conventional diplomatic and political norms. His administration saw a significant reorientation of U.S. foreign policy, marked by the withdrawal from the Iran nuclear deal (JCPOA), renegotiation of trade agreements, and a recalibration of relationships with both allies and adversaries. The Trump administration adopted a more transactional approach to international diplomacy, placing a greater emphasis on burden-sharing and economic considerations.
C. Overview of the 2024 Election Landscape
The 2024 presidential election is set to be a closely contested race, with various candidates from both major parties vying for the nomination. As the global geopolitical landscape continues to evolve, candidates are expected to address key issues such as cybersecurity, climate change, international trade, and the management of relationships with strategic competitors like China and Russia. In this context, Trump's potential candidacy represents a departure from traditional political discourse, characterized by his distinct and often divisive approach to policy formulation and implementation. It is of critical importance to examine the potential implications of a Trump presidency on the broader national security landscape, given his previous term's controversial policies and actions.
II. Espionage Act Violation and Security Risks
A. Details of the Violation
1. Top Secret Information Taken to Unsecured Locations
During his presidency, Trump has been reported to have removed sensitive documents from secure areas, thereby violating the Espionage Act. Instances of document removal include the transportation of classified information to his private residences, as well as other unsecured locations. The mishandling of these documents has exposed critical national security information to potential interception or exploitation by adversaries.
2. Legal Implications and Precedent
The violation of the Espionage Act carries significant legal ramifications, as it pertains to the unauthorized removal or retention of classified information. Historically, violations of this nature have led to severe consequences for the perpetrators, including imprisonment and fines. However, the
unique circumstances of a former president being implicated in such violations present uncharted legal territory, raising questions about potential consequences and the precedent this sets for future administrations.
B. Impact on National Security
1. Potential for Foreign Espionage
The unauthorized removal and exposure of classified information to unsecured locations significantly increases the risk of foreign espionage. With sensitive national security information vulnerable to cyber attacks and physical theft, adversaries may gain access to critical intelligence, thereby compromising U.S. security interests at home and abroad.
2. Damage to Intelligence Community Morale and Effectiveness
The violation of the Espionage Act by a former president can have a profound impact on the morale and effectiveness of the intelligence community. This disregard for established security protocols undermines the trust and collaboration necessary for intelligence agencies to operate effectively. Furthermore, it may strain relationships between the White House and the intelligence community, impeding the flow of information and the formulation of sound policy decisions.
C. Assessment of Risks if Elected in 2024
1. Continued Disregard for Security Protocols
Should Trump be elected to a second term, there is a heightened risk of continued disregard for established security protocols. This behavior could further erode trust in the presidency and the broader national security apparatus, potentially leaving the nation vulnerable to security breaches and intelligence failures.
2. Potential for Further Violations
Given Trump's previous violation of the Espionage Act, there is a risk of further breaches of security protocol if he is elected in 2024. These additional violations could further compromise national security and weaken the integrity of the institutions tasked with protecting the United States.
III. Foreign Policy and Geopolitical Challenges
A. Overview of Trump's Foreign Policy During His Previous Term
Trump's first term was characterized by an unconventional approach to foreign policy, with significant shifts in both policy and tone. Key policies and initiatives included the renegotiation of trade agreements, a more transactional approach to international diplomacy, and a recalibration of relationships with allies and adversaries alike.
B. Potential Impact on Relationships with Key Allies
1. NATO and European Union Partners
A Trump presidency could strain relationships with NATO and European Union partners, as was observed during his first term. Concerns over the commitment to NATO Article 5, which guarantees collective defense, could weaken the alliance and undermine European security. Additionally, trade disputes and potential economic consequences could further strain relationships with key European partners.
2. Asia-Pacific Allies (e.g., Japan, South Korea, Australia)
The potential impact of a Trump presidency on Asia-Pacific allies includes the possibility of a weakened regional security architecture and a diminished ability to counterbalance China's growing influence. Trump's previous term saw tensions in relationships with key allies like South Korea and Japan, which could potentially resurface if he is elected in 2024.
C. Potential Impact on Relationships with Adversaries
1. Russia and Election Interference Concerns
Trump's past reluctance to confront Russia on election interference concerns raises the risk of potential collusion or manipulation in the 2024 election. Additionally, a diminished focus on international cybersecurity efforts could leave the United States more vulnerable to cyber attacks from Russia and other adversaries.
2. China and Trade Tensions
A potential escalation of trade disputes with China could arise if Trump is elected in 2024. This could negatively affect global economic stability and further strain the already tense U.S.-China relationship, with implications for international security and cooperation on critical global issues.
3. Iran and the Nuclear Deal
If elected in 2024, Trump's approach to Iran and the nuclear deal could either involve rejoining the JCPOA or negotiating a new deal, which would impact regional stability in the Middle East. During his first term, Trump withdrew from the JCPOA and implemented a "maximum pressure" campaign against Iran, which could potentially be reinstated, further escalating tensions between the two countries.
4. North Korea and Denuclearization Efforts
A Trump presidency might result in renewed diplomatic engagement with North Korea, as witnessed during his first term. However, the potential for progress on denuclearization remains uncertain. The consequences of this engagement could influence regional security dynamics and the U.S. relationship with South Korea and Japan.
IV. Domestic Policy and National Security Implications
A. Impact on Immigration and Border Security
A Trump presidency could lead to significant changes in immigration policy and enforcement, with potential consequences for relations with Mexico and Central America. His previous focus on border security, including the construction of a border wall, could be revisited, impacting the perception of the United States as a welcoming country.
B. Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Protection
The Trump administration's approach to cybersecurity during his first term saw mixed results. If elected in 2024, Trump may face new and evolving cybersecurity threats that demand a coordinated and comprehensive response. Potential vulnerabilities and areas for improvement need to be addressed to ensure the security of critical infrastructure and protection against foreign interference.
C. Climate Change and National Security Risks
Given Trump's previous stance on climate change, a potential second term could result in a rollback of environmental policies and international cooperation on climate change mitigation. The long-term consequences of such actions could pose national security risks, including resource scarcity, forced migration, and conflict, as the impacts of climate change become more pronounced.
D. Civil Unrest and Potential Domestic Terrorism
The potential for civil unrest and domestic terrorism could be exacerbated by a Trump presidency, given the divisive nature of his political rhetoric. This may impact social cohesion and public safety, posing challenges for law enforcement and intelligence agencies as they work to maintain security and prevent acts of violence.
V. Intelligence Community and National Security Institutions
A. Trump's Relationship with the Intelligence Community
During his first term, Trump's relationship with the intelligence community was marked by disagreements and public disputes. If elected in 2024, this strained relationship could have implications for intelligence gathering and analysis, as well as influence decision-making and policy formulation.
B. Impact on the Functioning and Credibility of National Security Institutions
A second Trump term could heighten concerns about the politicization of national security agencies, potentially eroding morale and public trust in these institutions. Restoring institutional integrity and fostering a collaborative environment could pose challenges for the intelligence community and other national security entities.
C. Implications for Intelligence Sharing and Cooperation with Foreign Partners
A Trump presidency could impact international intelligence collaborations, as strained relationships with allies might lead to reduced intelligence sharing and cooperation. This could result in risks associated with compromised intelligence sources and decreased global security.
VI. Conclusion
A. Summary of Key Findings
This report has examined the potential national security threats posed by a second term of Donald Trump as President, should he be elected in 2024. Key areas of concern include the risks associated with his previous violation of the Espionage Act, the impact of his foreign and domestic policies on national security, and the potential consequences for the functioning of the intelligence community and other national security institutions.
B. Recommendations for Mitigating Potential National Security Threats
To address the challenges identified in this report, the intelligence community should prepare for potential risks by strengthening cybersecurity measures, fostering relationships with allies, and enhancing the resilience of national security institutions. Congress and the Executive Branch should focus on areas that ensure national security, such as climate change mitigation and infrastructure protection. Maintaining strong relationships with allies and partners is crucial for addressing the myriad challenges facing the United States in an increasingly complex geopolitical landscape.
VII. Appendices
Resources and References
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Author Information
Alan K. Yarborough Advisor on National Security IssuesDisclaimer
This document was prepared by Knightsbridge Research Service (KRS). KRS is nonpartisan and publications are made available to the public, congressional committees and Members of Congress. Insight is published under the direction of Knightsbridge Publishing. KRS Reports may include copyrighted images or material from a third party.
