TRENTO/BOLZANO. Donald Trump’s victory in the US elections is greeted with mixed feelings in the Region. If there are those, like the president of the Province of Bolzano, Arno Kompatscher, who underlines the reasons for concern linked to the tycoon’s return to the White House, starting from the promised introduction of duties on imports from the EU, there are those, like the his Trentino colleague Maurizio Fugatti, reads a historical moment. Points of view.
Arno Kompatscher: “Unfortunately, the result was up in the air. In times of crisis, when people are worried and anxious, they often tend to vote for those who present easy solutions even for complex problems, especially those who promise to strengthen the economy and guarantee income and stability for families. Ultimately, the main issue was that and not others, as we in Europe thought, observing from the outside. Americans are very worried about inflation and Trump’s net result is obviously also due to this it will be greater isolationism on the part of the United States it will certainly also have consequences on civil rights and other issues, because it will be a markedly right-wing policy, however, we must think about the global effects, as Trump has already announced, could have devastating effects on the world. global economy. We also wonder what concrete action will now be taken to combat climate change. Europe is now called upon to join forces and work as a team to be competitive on a global level, not only on the economic front, but also on the economic front. of their values.
Maurizio Fugatti: “I would like to extend my congratulations to the President-elect of the United States, Donald Trump, on the occasion of his election. The high turnout of American voters is a great sign of democracy and popular participation which is not at all to be taken for granted in this historical moment. This vote represents a moment of great importance for the entire world and we hope that this new administration can foster a climate of stability and collaboration. The hope is that this new political phase can bring dialogue, cooperation and progress in international relations, promoting peace and development where they reign at the moment uncertainties and difficult challenges.
Franco Ianeselli, mayor of Trento: “Donald Trump’s voters, the majority in the United States, are not ‘trash,’ as Joe Biden called them. They are angry people who need to be won back to a liberal idea of democracy.”
Heiner Oberrauch, president of Confindustria Alto Adige: “Europe must strengthen its competitiveness. We must focus on our innovation capacity and become pioneers of technological progress. To this end, we need a streamlined bureaucracy. Regulations must be streamlined and decision makers they must be able to make quick decisions. We need the ability to act quickly, but also contextual conditions that allow our businesses to develop – at European, national and local levels. Industry plays a central role in this sense: it guarantees the creation of added value, qualified employment and above-average wages. This key role must finally be recognized at a European level: an industrial policy is now more than ever indispensable, also to guarantee our independence. At the same time it is important to adopt measures for the necessary energy transition. Trade relations with the United States must continue to be balanced. A balance that must also be sought at a political level, especially in light of Donald Trump’s “America First” announcement.”
Julia Unterberger, president of the Autonomy Group: “Trump’s victory requires Europe to finally become an adult: building a common defense, overcoming the principle of unanimity, ever greater integration on fiscal and economic policies. And, as I hope, no giving in or giving up on the ecological transition. If Trump will continue to be the same as always, there is very little to hope for: Ukraine will gradually be left to its fate, duties will be imposed on imports, any American commitment to combating the climate crisis will go into the attic, civil rights and those of women. For Europe it is truly the last call: either she finally learns to do it herself or she will be the sacrificial lamb of this plan”.
Michaela Biancofiore, president of the Civici d’Italia group, Noi Moderati, Maie: “I am happy for the victory of the new President Trump, who I also supported 8 years ago. The American people spoke clearly and very decisively, awarding the 47th president a landslide victory that no one had wanted to predict, not knowing how to listen to the deep hearts of the USA and giving them that revenge that all the neocons in the world were waiting for with trepidation. The Republicans won in the popular vote, they also regained the Senate and won in the House and we know how much having a historic victory in Parliament is worth also because all sections of the population have expressed themselves in favor of Trump, a victory for the West which will finally be able to return as a protagonist in the world, working first and foremost for peace and a strong economy. I strongly agree with our prime minister’s words Giorgia Meloni when she underlines that Italy’s alliance with the United States is unshakable and that with Trump it will grow and strengthen further. I usually say that it is no coincidence that right in English means right, right but also right. Here, today the American and therefore global right has established itself, a great responsibility that I am sure will never be betrayed and which will be crowned with a great success that will bring peace and new prosperity.”
Interviewer: Welcome to Time.news! Today, we’re diving deep into the political landscape following Donald Trump’s victory in the recent US elections. We’re thrilled to have with us Dr. Elena Rossi, a political analyst focusing on transatlantic relations. Dr. Rossi, what’s your initial reaction to the mixed responses from leaders in Trento and Bolzano regarding Trump’s win?
Dr. Rossi: Thank you for having me! The election results have indeed stirred a complex array of emotions. Leaders like Arno Kompatscher express deep concerns about Trump’s potential policies, especially regarding his isolationist tendencies and trade relations with Europe. His worry about the impact on the global economy and civil rights is justified, given Trump’s track record. Conversely, Maurizio Fugatti’s congratulatory tone highlights a desire for optimism and collaboration which could be viewed as an opportunistic stance.
Interviewer: It seems like there’s a significant divide in perspective. Can you elaborate on what these mixed feelings reveal about the current political climate in Europe?
Dr. Rossi: Absolutely. The responses reflect a broader sentiment of uncertainty and fear in Europe about the implications of a Trump presidency. On one hand, some see an opportunity for dialogue and stability, as Fugatti suggests. On the other, leaders like Kompatscher and Julia Unterberger hint at a reality where Europe must brace itself for further challenges—particularly in diplomatic relationships and economic policies flowing from Trump’s “America First” agenda. This duality underscores a critical juncture for Europe: it must decide whether to passively adapt or actively strengthen its defenses and economic independence.
Interviewer: That’s a crucial point. Heiner Oberrauch mentioned the need for Europe to bolster its competitiveness and innovation. How do you see this playing out in light of Trump’s policies?
Dr. Rossi: Oberrauch’s emphasis on competitiveness and innovation is particularly timely. With Trump likely to prioritize American interests, European nations must collaborate more closely—not just to enhance their technological prowess but also to protect their economic interests. This means streamlining regulations and being more agile in decision-making to respond to US policies. There’s a tangible risk that without such coordination, European businesses could be at a disadvantage, especially if tariffs and barriers are imposed as Trump indicated.
Interviewer: Speaking of risks, Franco Ianeselli highlighted the importance of reconciling with Trump’s voter base rather than dismissing them. What does this suggest about the American political landscape and its implications for Europe?
Dr. Rossi: Ianeselli’s perspective is crucial. It indicates a need for understanding the socio-economic frustrations that drove many Americans to support Trump. Europe must recognize that these are not just political opponents but citizens grappling with real issues—jobs, healthcare, and social stability. The implications are profound. If Europe can foster alliances based on mutual understanding and shared values, it may contribute to a more balanced global dialogue, potentially influencing American policy over time.
Interviewer: Given everything discussed, where does Europe go from here? What actions should be prioritized?
Dr. Rossi: Europe needs to step up decisively—both politically and economically. First, it should enhance its defense capabilities and lessen its dependency on external powers, a sentiment echoed by leaders like Unterberger. Second, it’s crucial to unify on economic policies to ensure that Europe remains competitive. Europe must actively engage in climate change initiatives, as that is an area where cooperation with the US could yield significant benefits, irrespective of the current administration. All in all, proactive measures are essential to navigate this new political landscape effectively.
Interviewer: Thank you, Dr. Rossi, for sharing your insights. It’s clear that the future of transatlantic relations hangs in a delicate balance, and how Europe responds will be critical. We appreciate your time and expertise.
Dr. Rossi: Thank you for having me! It’s an important conversation, and I’m glad we could discuss it here.