Donald Trump is very likely to lose the presidential election, long-shot legal challenges and recount hopes notwithstanding. But if the expected loss comes to pass, Trump can still walk away a winner, having served four years that will shape the country and the world for the better for years to come.
Trump, along with Mitch McConnell, helped to reshape the judiciary, locking in hundreds of judges that will halt the Democratic advance of judicial activism. His three Supreme Court confirmations were a much-needed step away from the public-opinion-first, Constitution-second philosophy of Chief Justice John Roberts.
Trump helped set the course for a less contentious Middle East, as historic diplomatic agreements were established between Israel and several of its neighbors. The Trump administration has recognized that, between the Human Rights Council and the World Health Organization, the United Nations is a trainwreck.
Electorally, Trump did not destroy the Republican Party as expected. Republicans won across the country in 2020, and under Trump, the party has begun making inroads with demographic groups that don’t typically vote for Republicans. While Barack Obama saw his eight-year legacy largely erased in Trump’s first year, Trump is poised to have lasting positive effects on the GOP, the courts, and the country.
Of course, it wasn’t all great. Trump had his obvious flaws, and even now, his flippant accusations of election fraud help to undermine public confidence in our elections. Trump’s attacks on John McCain and John Lewis could very well be what costs him Arizona and Georgia, and his praise for authoritarians undermines the otherwise pro-freedom American vision he and his administration have promoted.
Conservatives and Republicans had a complicated relationship with Trump for about five years now. There were plenty of low points. But, on net, Trump may have had a positive impact on both the party and the country.
Trump would need to prove widespread fraud in at least four states to eke out a win, including two states that are run by Republicans. It’s a situation that should at least be handled with a bit more subtlety. If he can prove it, then yes, he should present his case. If not, there is no shame in walking away from a successful four years and preserving his accomplishments for years to come.
