In Victor Davis Hanson’s article for American Greatness, he reflects on the unprecedented political landscape in the United States as the nation anticipates a transition from the Biden administration to a new leadership, particularly focusing on the anticipated return of Donald Trump. He points out that this situation marks the first time in U.S. history that a president-elect has been recognized as the true leader before an official inauguration. Hanson argues that Joe Biden’s administration has effectively abdicated its responsibilities during its final months, leading to a temporary sigh of relief across the globe. The steady decline in American global standing, particularly showcased by the chaotic withdrawal from Afghanistan in August 2021, has emboldened adversarial nations—Russia, Iran, and China—to pursue aggressive interests without fear of repercussions from a feeble U.S. defense.
Hanson paints a picture of a world reminiscent of the late 1930s, a time when the U.S. was perceived as ineffectual in the face of rising autocratic regimes. Under Biden, he argues, several key maritime regions have become increasingly perilous, damaging not only military credibility but also inhibiting safe commerce. Hanson underscores that this apparent weakness has spurred a coalition of nuclear and aspiring nuclear states—namely Russia, China, North Korea, and Iran—to engage in confrontations with Western allies. He warns that the Biden administration’s cultural shifts, which he equates to a Maoist revolution, pose a significant threat to American security and military readiness, prompting fears of an enduring period of leftist ideological governance.
Moreover, the article argues that the Biden administration has led to a drastic shift in U.S. immigration policy, one that has resulted in an influx of millions of undocumented immigrants. Hanson questions the motivations behind dismantling established border regulations, speculating whether it stems from a nihilistic disregard for the nation’s sovereignty or a calculated ploy to reshape the American demographic landscape for long-term political advantage. He emphasizes that this surge is unprecedented, contributing to concerns over the rising number of foreign-born residents in the U.S. and the broader implications for national cohesion.
Hanson further criticizes Biden’s cognitive fitness, likening his multiple instances of verbal gaffes and disorientation to a broader narrative of national embarrassment. Alongside Biden’s perceived incompetence, a sense of uncertainty looms regarding who truly governs the country. The author hints at a power struggle within the Democratic Party, suggesting that various factions—ranging from the Obamas to far-left progressives—may be pulling the strings. This chaos has led to unease among allies and an opportunistic environment for adversaries, exacerbated by a media narrative that often paints Biden in an inaccurately flattering light despite clear evidence of his cognitive challenges.
The article also details the perceived weaponization of federal agencies under the Biden administration against political opponents, particularly Donald Trump. Hanson describes an unprecedented concerted effort by various governmental organizations—including the FBI, Department of Justice, and others—to undermine Trump, which he claims has authoritarian overtones. Allegations of corruption surrounding the Biden family further fuel concerns regarding transparency and legality in political dealings. He contends that these actions, alongside widespread unrest and lawlessness, evoke memories of historical periods of significant national strife and division.
As Hansen concludes, he posits that a palpable sense of optimism is beginning to emerge in anticipation of a new chapter that could restore dignity, security, and traditional governance to the U.S. The global community appears hopeful that a shift away from the tumultuous Biden years can lead to renewed American leadership, grounded in law, security, and stability, as optimism replaces cynicism. In summary, this envisaged “counterrevolution” represents not just a political realignment, but a cultural awakening, with the potential to revitalize a nation that has long grappled with uncertainty and division.