Donald Trump's first term may hold clues to a second

Significance

Trump’s first term in office (2017-21) offers important clues to his likely approach and priorities should he regain the presidency. Tendencies observable from that period are likely to shape his approach to a range of foreign policy challenges.

Impacts

• Trump’s ability to pursue his preferred foreign policy agenda would be strengthened if Republicans were also to win control of Congress.
• Allies would need to find ways to work with a Trump presidency despite apprehension about his ‘America First’ policies.
• Adversaries might undertake an early test of Trump’s resolve, particularly his willingness to commit troops, if he returns to power.