New Boss, Same as the Old Boss?

With the possibility of Donald Trump returning to the White House, it’s essential to examine his track record beyond campaign promises and rhetoric. Many voters see Trump as an outsider ready to “drain the swamp,” but his actions in office often told a different story. Even if Trump wins a second term, we shouldn’t expect drastic changes. Instead, as always, we need to focus on self-sufficiency and prepping for uncertain times.

As you know if you watched my video (below) I voted for Donald Trump… for one reason and that is hoping he might try to close the border. Not sure he will do anything about it but I know Harris would leave it open and allow more tens of millions to coming into the U.S., and that one reason is why I swallowed my vomit and cast my vote for Trump, instead of not voting at all…

1. National Debt Explosion

During his four years, Trump added nearly $8 trillion to the national debt, raising it from about $20 trillion to $28 trillion. This increase, which included COVID-19 stimulus spending marked one of the largest single-term debt spikes in history. As the debt continues to grow, inflation and economic instability become more likely, reinforcing the need for personal financial preparedness. Source: Congressional Budget Office on debt growth

2. COVID-19 Shutdowns and Operation Warp Speed

Trump was in office when the COVID-19 plandemic hit, declaring a national emergency in March 2020. State-imposed shutdowns followed, bankrupting countless small businesses and the federal government overseeing Operation Warp Speed. This program, launched by Trump, sped up vaccine production timelines from years to months. While some hailed this as a breakthrough, the rapid pace raised questions about long-term safety, but at least big pharma made billions. This experience is a reminder to be prepared for government actions that may have far-reaching impacts on health and personal freedom. Source: HHS Operation Warp Speed Overview

3. Red Flag Laws and Gun Control

Despite a reputation as a defender of the Second Amendment, Trump took steps that concerned many gun rights advocates. In response to mass shootings, he imposed a federal bump stock ban, which was later ruled unconstitutional. He also voiced support for “red flag” laws that allow authorities to confiscate firearms from individuals deemed a risk, saying, “Take the guns first, go through due process second.” For those prioritizing gun rights, these actions highlight that no candidate should be taken at face value. Source: Trump’s bump stock ban ruled unconstitutional

4. Shifting Stance on Hillary Clinton and “The Swamp”

One of Trump’s most famous campaign lines was “Lock her up!” about Hillary Clinton. Yet once in office, he praised the Clintons, even calling them “good people.” Trump’s appointments also reflected a willingness to work with established “swamp” figures, from former Goldman Sachs executives to political insiders, showing that his stance on “draining the swamp” may not have been as strong as promised. Source: Trump praises Clintons in interview

5. Close Ties with Israel

Trump has been clear about his support for Israel, moving the U.S. Embassy to Jerusalem and fostering the Abraham Accords. Given his stance, it’s likely that he would support any military conflict involving Israel, which could draw the U.S. into more foreign entanglements. For those focused on self-reliance, this position serves as a reminder to be prepared for disruptions that global conflicts can bring to supply chains and resources. Source: Trump and Israel policy

6. Trump’s Support for Criminalizing Flag Burning

Trump has expressed support for imposing a one-year prison sentence for burning the U.S. flag, even if it’s the individual’s own property. This stance raises significant First Amendment concerns, as the Supreme Court has ruled in Texas v. Johnson (1989) that flag burning is a protected form of free speech. His position here suggests a willingness to restrict certain expressions of free speech in favor of national symbolism. Source: NBC News.

7. Trump’s Support for Stop-and-Frisk

Additionally, Trump has endorsed “stop-and-frisk” policies, most notably during his 2016 campaign, arguing that the practice could help reduce crime in urban areas. However, this policy has been criticized as unconstitutional raising questions about privacy and equal treatment under the law. Source: Politico.

8. Support for Qualified Immunity for Police

Trump has also shown support for qualified immunity for police officers, a doctrine that protects them from personal liability in civil lawsuits related to misconduct. His backing of qualified immunity aligns with his “law and order” stance, but it also raises concerns about accountability in cases where law enforcement actions violate citizens’ rights. Source: The New York Times

9. Prep, Don’t Depend on Politicians

As we’ve seen, political promises often don’t translate into action, or the action taken may have unintended consequences. Whether it’s ballooning debt, rapid changes in public health policy, shifting gun rights, or involvement in foreign conflicts, politicians often prioritize agendas that don’t align with individual freedoms and preparedness.

Instead of relying on any leader to bring about meaningful change, focus on building your own resilience. Stock up on essentials, improve your self-reliance skills, and be ready for potential economic instability. Prepping is not about alarmism—it’s about planning for a future where your well-being doesn’t depend on whoever’s in office.