In the wake of recent elections in both Canada and Australia, right-wing parties that sought to emulate the divisive tactics of former U.S. President Donald Trump’s “Make America Great Again” (MAGA) playbook have faced resounding defeats at the polls. This trend raises questions about the lasting impact of Trump’s brand of politics on the global stage, as well as the shifting dynamics within conservative movements around the world.
In Canada, the Conservative Party, led by Erin O’Toole, attempted to appeal to disaffected voters by adopting a more populist and nationalist platform reminiscent of Trump’s rhetoric. However, this strategy backfired in the recent federal election, with the party losing ground in key battlegrounds and failing to make significant gains in urban areas. The party’s failure to connect with a diverse and increasingly progressive electorate has raised concerns about its ability to remain competitive in future elections.
Similarly, in Australia, the Liberal National Party (LNP) suffered a major setback in the recent Queensland state election. The party, which has been accused of embracing Trump-like tactics, including stoking fears about immigration and cultural change, was soundly defeated by the Labor Party. This defeat has been seen as a rejection of the LNP’s divisive messaging and a clear signal that voters are looking for more inclusive and forward-thinking leadership.
These results highlight a growing trend of backlash against right-wing parties that seek to capitalize on the politics of division and fear. In both Canada and Australia, voters have shown a willingness to reject candidates who rely on inflammatory rhetoric and polarizing tactics to win support. This shift suggests that the era of Trump-style politics may be coming to an end, at least in some parts of the world.
However, the impact of Trump’s legacy is far from uniform. In other countries, such as Brazil and Hungary, leaders who have embraced Trump’s brand of populism continue to enjoy strong support among their base. Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro, for example, has maintained a loyal following despite his controversial statements and policies. Similarly, Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban has successfully used anti-immigrant rhetoric to solidify his hold on power.
The divergent outcomes of recent elections in Canada, Australia, Brazil, and Hungary underscore the complex and multifaceted nature of Trump’s influence on global politics. While some leaders have been able to leverage his playbook to their advantage, others have found themselves on the losing end of a changing political landscape. This suggests that the legacy of Trump’s presidency is still being written, with different countries interpreting and responding to his brand of politics in their own unique ways.
As we look ahead to future elections around the world, it will be crucial to monitor how candidates and parties position themselves in relation to Trump’s legacy. Will more leaders continue to embrace his tactics, or will there be a broader shift towards more inclusive and unifying forms of leadership? Only time will tell, but one thing is clear: the impact of Trump’s presidency is far from over.