Super Tuesday, the event in which [15] U.S. states hold their primaries to determine their Democratic and Republican presidential candidates, was held. Former Republican President Donald Trump secured an overwhelming victory, and former U.N. Ambassador Nikki Haley announced her withdrawal from the election. Current Democratic President Joe Biden also notched a landslide victory.
The general election in November is expected to be similar to four years ago when Trump and Biden faced off against each other. Various public opinion polls show a roughly equal approval rating for both candidates. However, swing states, which determine victory or defeat in the general election, lean more toward supporting Trump. It is unclear who will win, but whichever candidate wins will influence the direction of the international order.
While in office and even now, Trump has expressed anger at NATO member nations that do not pay enough for defense. Amid concerns over the Taiwan crisis, this intense line of sight is no doubt turned toward Japan’s defense efforts.
The alliance between the U.S. and Japan must be maintained, no matter which candidate is elected, for Japan to protect peace and stability for itself and the region. Japan lost former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, who had a friendly relationship with Trump. We would like the government and the Liberal Democratic Party to prioritize rebuilding the relationship with Trump.
It is rare for the basic structure of the general election showdown to be finalized at the Super Tuesday stage. Trump has set his sights on incumbent President Biden, more so than on the contest to get nominated.
Given the current situation, there is concern that support for Ukraine’s resistance to the Russian invasion will stagnate.
Last month, the U.S. Senate approved an emergency draft aid package of $95 billion, which includes aid to Ukraine. However, the bill is not expected to pass in the Republican-dominated House of Representatives. Trump, who opposes the aid bill, is wielding his influence on members of Congress who are blocking the bill.
Though it might be meant to demonstrate an antagonistic posture to Biden, delaying support to Ukraine is dangerous. If Russia gains an advantage, China and other such despotic countries aiming to “change the status quo by force” will gain momentum.
The 77-year-old Trump is facing four criminal indictments*, including the attack on the U.S. Capitol. The 81-year-old Biden’s cognitive abilities remain in question after gaffes such as mistaking the names of the French and German leaders. We hope that both candidates, who each have had their presidential qualities questioned, will engage in a debate that will dispel the doubts.
*Editor’s Note: Trump’s four criminal indictments add up to 91 felony counts.
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