As Donald Trump prepares to return to the White House, the legacy of former President Jimmy Carter looms large, especially in light of Carter's recent passing. In an analysis published on January 1, 2025, authors Medea Benjamin and Nicholas J.S. Davies reflect on Carter's advice to Trump regarding prioritizing domestic investment over military spending. Carter had previously advised Trump on U.S.-China relations in April 2019, emphasizing that the U.S. has wasted trillions on military conflicts while China has focused on economic growth. He argued that investing in American infrastructure should take precedence over military expenditures, a sentiment that resonates amid the current national debt of $36 trillion [084df7fd].
During his first term, Trump increased military spending by 24% compared to his predecessor, Barack Obama, averaging $292 billion annually on Pentagon spending. Notably, he dropped over 60,000 bombs in 2017 alone. While Trump did not initiate new wars, he escalated existing conflicts, raising concerns about his approach to foreign policy [084df7fd]. As Trump re-enters the political arena, worries are mounting regarding his cabinet picks, including figures like Marco Rubio and Mike Waltz, who are known for their hawkish stances [084df7fd].
The analysis raises critical questions about whether Trump will heed Carter's advice and shift his focus towards peace and domestic investment, especially given his recent militaristic rhetoric following the election. This juxtaposition of priorities presents a significant challenge for Trump as he seeks to navigate the complexities of governance in a polarized political landscape, while also addressing the economic expectations of the American populace [084df7fd].
In light of these developments, Trump's ability to balance military commitments with the pressing need for infrastructure investment will be crucial in determining the direction of his administration and its impact on the American economy and international relations.