Sir, - Like many others, I have been grappling with Donald Trump’s impact on American democracy. Yet, paradoxically, my opposition to his politics has deepened my engagement with the American political system. This discomfort has sparked a more critical examination of what truly constitutes effective democratic leadership. Mr Trump’s presidency, despite its divisiveness, may yield an unexpected benefit for both American and global democracy. By compelling citizens to confront fundamental questions about leadership, governance and civic duty, it has catalysed a crucial dialogue about democratic resilience.
As John Stuart Mill argued in On Liberty, engaging with opposing viewpoints not only clarifies our own convictions but strengthens our understanding of democratic institutions.
Perhaps this is democracy’s silver lining: opposition often awakens civic consciousness and renews our commitment to protecting and enhancing democratic values. – Yours, etc,
ENDA CULLEN,
The welcome I received from Jennifer Johnston is something I will never forget
Oscars 2026: Will Hamnet with Paul Mescal and Jessie Buckley get a best picture nomination?
‘My son is getting married in the summer, and the likelihood is that I’m going to be able to see that’
Ireland ‘actively hindering its citizens from building wealth and securing their future’
Armagh.
Sir, – It looks like Donald Trump is trying to swamp the drain. – Yours, etc,
FINTAN CADOGAN,
Inniscarra,
Co Cork.
