Just met Donald Trump
Last night I dreamt I spoke to the President-Elect then woke up feeling optimistic
Am I the only person who feels any sense of optimism about various recent election results in the USA and its little cousin across the water, the UK? I make no comment about my preferences for the numerous candidates or how I may have voted in the one election I voted in. I tend to avoid discussing politics online as it just leads to bullying and noise.
Politics aside, this is not the first time I have dreamt about the results of a Presidential Election. When Donald Trump was elected for his first term in 2017 I had a lucid, if somewhat confused, dream. I dreamt I met, not Trump, but George W. Bush (President 2001-2009) at his ranch in Crawford, Texas. He was pleasant, genial and welcoming.
Last night's dream-time meeting was equally genial. We exchanged pleasantries and I wondered why there were no Secret Service agents in sight. No doubt an oblique dreamy reference to recent failings by the agency in respect of preventing attacks on the once and future President.
As generally happens on the rare occasions when I meet someone important or famous in a dream, I could think of nothing to say to our Donald. I only recall he was quite pleasant, if formal, and the meeting seemed quite normal and was entirely uneventful.
So, why the optimism?
One thing I have noticed about the demeanour and behaviour of President-elect Trump in recent weeks, is that he seems to me to be a lot calmer, a lot more reasonable and a lot more, well, grown-up. This was just my impression and I did not spend a lot of time watching coverage of the US presidential elections. It was not my election and political coverage and discussion these days is largely meaningless and cliché-ridden. He was certainly a lot more grown up than some of the UK politicians who have been flocking to his rallies in recent years. At the risk of being thought cynical, I would say that they hope to share in his 'glory'. To enhance their own diminishing roles on the world stage.
On the other hand, reports of some minor UK Labour Party members flying out to assist the current Vice President's failed promotion bid are but a side-show. This was just childish nonsense, and nothing compared with British Foreign Secretary David Lammy's anti-Trump remarks. He has been reported as having said, some time ago when he was not a government member, that Trump was a "Deluded, dishonest, xenophobic, narcissistic” and a “neo-Nazi-sympathising sociopath.” I can't think of a more stupid and childish thing for an opposition MP to say, regardless of whether this was his opinion or not. Did he think that his party was unelectable and that he would never become a government minister? Senior politicians who wish to remain in public service need to be more circumspect in their public utterances.
Interestingly, I met David Lammy, for real, some years ago, on the day he had just published a ground-breaking and important report on disproportionate outcomes for black and ethnic minority people in the UK criminal justice system. We shared a taxi on the way to an out-of-town conference and I was delighted to have had the chance to talk to him. I am pleased to see he is now representing our country (the United Kingdom) on the world stage and have no doubt that he has grown up since his oft-reported outbursts about Donald J.T.
Indeed, on the whole, the new UK government led by the likes of David Lammy and Prime Minister Keir Starmer leaves me with more of a positive feeling than negative. Not on the basis of its policies, nor of the fact that it displaced an ineffective animal house of gibbering idiots of a Conservative government. No, my positive feelings stem from the way government ministers, from Keir Starmer down, have been deporting themselves since last July's General Election.
Faced with the inevitable post-election barrage of vitriol from newly defeated politicians and their cronies, UK government ministers have, by and large, kept their composure. So much media coverage these days is bear-pit, noisy, social-media led and, basically, inane. Keir Starmer is not a rock god, he is a prime minister. He is an administrator and the head of an administration. Whilst I may well describe him, sarcastically, as Mr Interesting, being a boring man in a grey suit is probably an advantage if you are going to lead a country, soberly, in a mad world.
Back to the strange (it may seem to someone living on the other side of the Atlantic Ocean) world of American Politics, I have no stake in either the Republican Party, or the Democratic Party. As an observer of the great events that have taken place on the western side of the ocean, I can only surmise that the American people have made their choice. Vice President Harris has been tested on the political stage and been found wanting. If you are unhappy about the results of this election, don't blame Donald Trump and the Republican Party, blame the Democrats. The Democratic Party were either unable, or unwilling, to put forward an effective alternative to Donald Trump. The Democrats are the ones who failed, not the Trump/Musk Party.
One the whole, Donald Trump's policies have been clearly put. I may not agree with them but, as I have said, I am not a citizen of the USA, so these policies are none of my business. Of course I am aware of the role of the US as the biggest nuclear power in the world and the biggest economy, so yes, the results of a Presidential election do have a bearing on me as a citizen of the rest of the world.
To conclude, I get the impression that the President Elect has learnt from his previous term of office. I think he has learnt from his time as a goat in the wilderness, and he may even have drawn some lessons from the two recent attempts on his life. If there are any further attempts on Donald Trump's life, before, during, or after his coming term of office, I sincerely hope they fail and I sincerely hope the perpetrators are brought to justice. Call me old fashioned but, as the oldest surviving democracy in the world, I would like to see American democracy continue to survive and thrive.
Bless the American people and long live American democracy.
If you have read this far I hope you have found something interesting and useful in my rambling essay. If you agree or disagree on any of the points raised in this tract, please feel free to comment. I will not, however, be drawn into discussing American politics. I have enough trouble keeping on top of UK politics without venturing into the stormy sea beyond.
Thanks for reading
About the Creator
Raymond G. Taylor
Author living in Kent, England. Writer of short stories and poems in a wide range of genres, forms and styles. A non-fiction writer for 40+ years. Subjects include art, history, science, business, law, and the human condition.
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All about the noise
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By Raymond G. Taylor2 years ago in The Swamp
Greenlanders Say “We Don’t Want to Be Americans” as Trump’s Threats Rekindle Arctic Tensions
When former U.S. President Donald Trump once again raised the idea of asserting American control over Greenland, the response from the Arctic island was swift, united, and unequivocal. Greenlanders, through their political leaders, made one message clear to the world: they do not want to be Americans. The renewed rhetoric from Trump has not only revived an old controversy but also exposed deeper questions about sovereignty, identity, and the rights of small nations in an era of aggressive geopolitics. Greenland, the world’s largest island, may be sparsely populated, but its strategic importance has grown dramatically in recent years. Melting ice due to climate change has opened new shipping routes and access to vast reserves of rare-earth minerals, oil, and gas. These developments have turned the Arctic into a focal point of global power competition, drawing interest from the United States, China, and Russia alike. Yet for Greenlanders themselves, the conversation is not about global dominance — it is about dignity, autonomy, and the right to decide their own future. A United Political Front in Greenland One of the most striking aspects of the current moment is the rare unity displayed by Greenland’s political leadership. All major parties in the Inatsisartut, Greenland’s parliament, issued a joint statement rejecting any suggestion that Greenland could or should become part of the United States. Their words were firm and symbolic: “We don’t want to be Americans. We don’t want to be Danish. We want to be Greenlanders.” This statement was more than a reaction to Trump’s remarks; it was a declaration of identity. Greenland has spent decades gradually moving away from colonial dependence on Denmark. Since gaining home rule in 1979 and expanded self-government in 2009, the island has taken control of most domestic affairs, while Denmark still manages defense and foreign policy. Many Greenlanders view eventual independence as a long-term goal, but one that must come through democratic choice — not external pressure. Public opinion strongly supports this stance. Surveys consistently show that the overwhelming majority of Greenland’s population opposes becoming part of the United States. The idea of being “bought” or absorbed by another country is widely seen as outdated, disrespectful, and incompatible with modern principles of self-determination. Trump’s Renewed Interest and Strategic Arguments Donald Trump’s fascination with Greenland is not new. During his presidency, he openly floated the idea of purchasing the island, reportedly seeing it as a strategic asset that could strengthen U.S. military positioning in the Arctic and counter rival powers. His latest comments, which hinted that America might take Greenland “one way or another,” reignited fears about coercive diplomacy. From Washington’s perspective, Greenland’s location makes it invaluable. The U.S. already maintains a military presence at Pituffik Space Base (formerly Thule Air Base), a key component of missile defense and space surveillance. Trump and his allies argue that greater U.S. control would enhance security, prevent Chinese investment, and limit Russian influence in the Arctic. However, Greenlandic leaders strongly dispute the notion that their island is vulnerable or incapable of managing foreign partnerships responsibly. They argue that security concerns should be addressed through cooperation with Denmark and NATO, not through threats or unilateral ambitions. To many in Greenland, Trump’s rhetoric feels less like a security strategy and more like a return to 19th-century power politics. Identity, Culture, and the Fear of Losing Control Beyond geopolitics, Greenlanders’ resistance is deeply rooted in cultural and social concerns. Greenland’s population, predominantly Inuit, has a distinct language, traditions, and worldview shaped by Arctic life. The island’s social model prioritizes community welfare, public healthcare, and local decision-making tailored to its harsh environment. Many fear that becoming part of the United States would fundamentally alter these systems. Questions arise about healthcare access, land rights, environmental protection, and the preservation of Indigenous culture. For a society that has already experienced the long-term impacts of colonial rule, the idea of exchanging one external authority for another is deeply unsettling. Local voices have repeatedly emphasized that Greenland is “not for sale.” This sentiment reflects a broader rejection of being treated as a commodity rather than a community. The frustration is not only with Trump personally but with the mindset that assumes powerful nations can redraw borders without the consent of the people who live there. Denmark, NATO, and International Concerns Denmark has firmly backed Greenland’s position, warning that any attempt to force a change in the island’s status would violate international law and strain alliances. Danish leaders have stressed that Greenland’s future can only be decided by Greenlanders themselves, in accordance with existing self-rule agreements. The controversy has also raised concerns within NATO. If a leading alliance member were to threaten the territorial integrity of another member’s realm, it could undermine trust and cooperation at a time when unity is already under pressure from global crises. Allies worry that such disputes weaken the moral authority of democratic nations that claim to uphold international norms. A Defining Moment for Greenland’s Future Ironically, Trump’s threats may have accelerated conversations within Greenland about full independence. While economic challenges remain — including reliance on Danish subsidies — the current situation has strengthened national consciousness and political solidarity. Many Greenlanders now see greater autonomy not just as an aspiration, but as a safeguard against external interference. This moment is a reminder that in the modern world, power should not override principle. Greenland’s leaders are not denying the island’s strategic importance; they are insisting that strategic value does not cancel human agency. Their message resonates far beyond the Arctic, echoing the struggles of small nations everywhere that find themselves caught between competing global powers. Conclusion: Sovereignty Is Not Negotiable As tensions simmer, one truth stands out: Greenlanders are determined to speak for themselves. They reject the idea of becoming Americans not out of hostility, but out of a profound commitment to self-identity and self-rule. In doing so, they challenge a world order that too often prioritizes strategy over sovereignty. Whether Greenland eventually becomes fully independent or continues its partnership with Denmark, its future will be shaped by the will of its people — not by threats, deals, or geopolitical ambition. And in asserting that right so clearly, Greenland has delivered a powerful message: in the 21st century, nations are not possessions, and people are not bargaining chips.
By Muhammad Hassana day ago in The Swamp
A Failed Artist, A Disillusioned Poet, An Underpaid Game Show Host
I took my son and niece to Gori, a small town in Georgia where Joseph Stalin was born. They talked me into visiting the Stalin's Museum, the largest in the post-Soviet space. I had resisted going there because I just can't stand the monster and know enough about him, or so I thought.
By Lana V Lynx5 days ago in FYI
Comments (15)
So, 100 days in to the administration, how are we feeling?
Congratulations on placing as an Honorable Mention on this week's leaderboard for Most Discussed Story with this one!
This is one of the most emotionally mature things I’ve read regarding the election. Every election season brings out the worst in people. I am moderate and don’t approve of the current two party system because it creates too much extremism. The pendulum just swings back and forth between the two extremes. This also causes division, and maybe that’s what politicians want—to divide and conquer. There have been times I’ve not voted because I’ve not believed in either candidate. There have been times who I voted for lost—I most certainly did not vote for George W, though he won twice. Either way I’ve been fine, because like Mariann, I only give God control over my life. No politician will hinder my blessings, nor will any politician be my savior. I consider it idolatry to give another human that level of power, even if it is to hate them. The truth is, America is a first world country where every citizen is free, so those acting like the election results are the end of the world are just childish. They refuse to take accountability for the life they’ve created for themselves. As for your dream, I had a very realistic dream about Trump several years ago. It did not feel like a dream. It will always stick with me. It wasn’t political though. It was spiritual and it was what made me decide to give up pork in my journey to practice Orthodox Judaism, which wasn’t a decision I made lightly. I don’t idolize or hate Trump, but I do find him inspiring. Especially since he’s the underdog. Mainstream media tried to make him a boogeyman and still he won by popular vote. I think he has some great ideas, but we’ll see if they’re implemented. Whether Trump or Harris won it could only go uphill from Biden, so yes I’m hopeful. Either way I’m fortunate to be American and continue to count my blessings.
Just an aside comment: I had a dream, too, before Trump was elected. It was at a time when I was praying to God for guidance as to whether or not my family and I would flee the country. I dreamt the lyrics to a song. The song was "The General" by Dispatch. The part that stuck out to me the most was "take a shower and shine your shoes, you've got no time to lose, you're young men you must be living. Go now you are forgiven." I've been bouncing around the idea of writing a piece regarding it. I hope his election turns out peaceful like your dream and not mine.
Thank you for writing this! It's good to hear what the world might be thinking. I agree with you on so many of your points, too. I wish I kept up with what goes on in your country, but I'm ashamed to say that it all gets confusing with so many different parties and views. I was a bit alarmed to hear that the government there was going to start prosecuting for "misinformation." That's a slippery slope...praying for your freedoms, too.
Everyone has an opinion. I am not a political person, but I just hope he keeps all his promises. I just live day to day and pay my bills and maybe a little extra and I do not vote, and I do not complain because really politics is just a game that some men and women play.
There are no perfect politicians. Only time will tell if Trump learned anything from his last Presidency. I prayed that God give my country, the USA a good president. I have to trust that no matter what, God is always in Control.
With everyone shouting "The End!" like a doomsday cult, I had to put together a history of doomsday cults. There's something addictive about believing in "the end" for sure. Trumpf is just one guy who's 78 years old, and we've seen his show before. Just chill out and wait for this to be over. And, no matter how hard it is short term, I actually think its good the US & UK govts go back and forth between their two parties for some creative disruption in the long ruin. (disclaimer: i don't vote, and don't support trump.) https://shopping-feedback.today/history/the-end-is-near-wtf-the-end-is-here%3C/span%3E%3C/span%3E%3C/span%3E%3C/a%3E%3C/p%3E%3C/div%3E%3C/div%3E%3C/div%3E%3Cdiv class="css-w4qknv-Replies">
As you have asked to receive comments: I am pleased you can sleep soundly when you dream of him. I cannot. I can barely keep food down. I have lost two daughters, six grandsons, and other precious family to this man’s racist and facist rhetoric. His transphobic form of Christian Nationalism is dangerous. And this is for Lightning Bolt 😆
Ray, this piece has certainly prompted debate! All I will say is that I'm glad Donald doesn't visit me in my dreams. But then I'd be equally put off of Sir Keir did too.
Lol, I wonder what would happen if he showed up in my dreams 🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣
With all kindness and respect - and for what it's worth - this American's opinion coincides pretty much with Lightning Bolt's. This American would also be very willing to send DJT clear across to your side of the pond so you could perhaps gain a clearer perspective. I only wish I had seen the same growth of maturity or wisdom gleaned that you have seen - I assure you, I have been watching. In a moment of sincerity, however, I'd like to give another's perspective on David Lammy, an individual I admit about which I know nothing. There are many, American and otherwise, who think much the same as what he vocalized in regard to our President Elect. Your words objecting to what he'd said left me wondering just how many people were silent when Hitler first began to rise in power, and the result was unthinkable. Sometimes, it is the courageous individual who in the face of adversity finds a voice. After all, nothing was ever achieved from nothing.
HEY VOCAL-- I know it's probably not conducive to All of Us Just Getting Along.... but stories like this make me seriously crave a laughing emoji like they have on Facebook. Could you just add one of those to everything in the Swamp? {{ Forgive me. }}
Enjoy your fantasy. If he ever showed up while I was asleep, it would be a nightmare, not a dream. It would be like dreaming of Charles Manson. I've voted in every election since 1979. Never have I been so shocked or frightened. ****He's a convicted felon.*** I can imagine having a nightmare where I watch Al Capone cozy up to Trump and they drink illegal liquor together. That's a scenario my subconscious could easily cook up! I have a young gay friend who thinks that we only have to worry about the next four years. 😂😂😂 Trump has already managed to pack the Supreme Court with Neanderthals, taking away a woman's right to an abortion. And we just gave him the power to add even more partisan crusaders to Court! Yes, indeed: the damages from this Administration could last for many decades to come!!! I fear for trans kids. I fear that same-sex marriage will ultimately be taken away. They'll kick it back to the states, exactly like they did with abortion, and suddenly you'll only be able to get married in places like California, Illinois, and New York (places not interested in turning back the clock to the 19th Century.) And the way Trump/they dehumanize Latinos and are thrilled about mass deportations? Because what? Latinos aren't human beings? {Racism} I fear for anyone in Trump's America who isn't 1) white 2) straight and 3) not loyal to him. I guarantee you this: no one can foresee the horrible way this is going to end! Trump tried to ***overthrow the government*** when his ego was bruised because he lost in a fair election in 2020. He doesn't care about America. The only person he cares about is Donald Trump. Getting elected is how he avoids prison. He's a classic narcissist. It's an incredibly sad time for America. Whatever horrors are forthcoming: we deserve them!!! Never in a million years did I ever imagine we'd put any man above the Law. Thanks, Sir. I've been sooooo depressed by the results of this election! I wanna write about it but haven't yet built up the courage to discuss this travesty. It causes enormous anxiety!! Reading this post from you might be the motivation I need to offer the opposing terrified and heartbroken viewpoint.
I don't think he's a lot calmer or grown up. He was just as hateful and rude on the campaign trail as he was in 2016 and 2020. On top of that he displays traits of mental decline. I feel a second term of trump will be as much an epic failure as his first term - but more so. He will not be doing any mass deportations just like he never built a wall that Mexico paid for. However, about 30% of our US adult population risk losing their Constitutional rights to the pursuit of happiness. And Elon Musk running a governmental office. First off the man has zero experience in politics or running a country. Second, I don't know about trust an elite billionaire to cut waste in our government. What I see is two very rich white men (Musk and Trump) wanting to cut and abolish as many programs and governmental departments so they can give themselves the biggest tax break the US has ever given. That is what I smell in all of this. Something rotten is happening in trump world. So, while they get these big tax breaks the rest of us will struggle. The elderly, handicapped, and sick will suffer so they can put more money in their already huge bankrolls. Those that think trump will put an end to this inflation are delusional. Inflation is not a product of Joe Biden - the fact is Joe Biden was handed an economical landscape that was already faltering big time and global inflation had already begun by the time January 20, 2021 rolled around. Biden actually did a great job with taming inflation. We could have had a much higher rate of inflation. We could have been paying $15 for a loaf of bread instead of $5 or $6. Our peak average inflation rate was 9.1%, one of the lowest rates in the world. Other countries experienced inflation at a rate of 25%, 50%, and up to 200%. The US fared well compared to other countries and on top of that we did not fall into a recession. Trump sold the people a load of lies when he said over and over that Kamala Harris and Joe Biden destroyed the economy. It was the other way around. Biden and Harris inherited a destroyed economy and did a more than respectful job of keeping us from completely sinking into an economic abyss. Once again trump is inheriting a strong economy and he will take 100% credit for it. But, that is okay. Trump was able to fool the people in this current age about the economy but he cannot fool history. Trump will go down in history as a notorious figure and will be rated very low in historical presidential ratings. Biden will fare well in history as his Infrastructure plan is already giving the country a much needed facelift with more Ethan 100,000 projects already in process around the US responsible for more than one million high paying jobs. It is estimated that another 100,000 projects will begin within the next few months which will create another few million high paying jobs - of which trump will take credit for - but again history will remember the facts - and expose the lies. So to your question. I am not optimistic about a second trump term. I feel we will experience economic disaster with another few trillion added to our deficit and we will witness the loss of rights and freedoms for many of our friends and family members. Very sad. The is no light at the end of this darkened tunnel.