Inside Political Science #020 – Trump’s Approach to the World

Who do you love and who do you hate? In terms of foreign policy, that's a complicated question. Kirby and Todd are back with their first episode of 2025. They bring in foreign policy expert Dr. John Schuessler to discuss how newly returned President Donald Trump might handle foreign relations. As his second term begins, how will Trump take on a world that has changed so much in the past four years? Does his experience mean he is better prepared to transition back into office? And what kind of negotiation tactics will he use? While he may seem to use "hard power," John argues he uses "soft power" more than people realize. How will he balance structure versus agency? Will he rethink our relationships with our allies? Plus, have other nations figured out Trump's tell? The group discusses whether his tendency to compromise for 'little wins' is worthwhile. Finally, Kirby and Todd analyze some of Trump’s strengths and weaknesses as the president gets to work. For more on this show and to listen to past episodes, visit tx.ag/insidepoliticalscience.