Downing Street declined to provide any input on the series of controversial executive orders issued by Donald Trump on his first day back in the White House. Keir Starmer’s spokesperson stated that they had not witnessed Elon Musk’s alleged ‘nazi salute’ at the US President’s rally in Washington DC. This response followed a widespread negative sentiment among the British public regarding Trump’s return to power.
During the night, the twice-impeached and convicted US President pardoned 1,500 supporters who faced legal actions for their roles in the violent insurrection on January 6, 2021. This included over 400 individuals charged with violent crimes. Trump also withdrew the US from the Paris Climate Accords and the World Health Organization, and initiated procedures for the large-scale deportation of non-US citizens using an outdated law not enforced since World War II internment of Japanese nationals.
Despite these actions, No10 emphasized that they wouldn’t be providing continuous commentary on each executive order. The spokesperson highlighted the importance of the US as a crucial ally, expressing the Prime Minister’s anticipation of collaborating with Trump’s administration in the future.
Keir Starmer’s team has been careful not to provoke Trump and his associates, given their previous turbulent tenure that culminated in an attempted coup. Following Trump’s inauguration, Starmer conveyed warm congratulations on behalf of the United Kingdom to the forty-seventh President of the United States, emphasizing the enduring bond between the UK and the US.
In contrast to the official statements, the majority of Britons held negative views towards Trump’s reinstatement. A YouGov poll revealed that 58% of the British populace disapproved of Donald Trump. Another survey indicated that 53% were dissatisfied with Trump’s return to presidency, with 40% expressing strong discontent. Only 19% of respondents showed approval of Trump’s comeback.
Respondents who were unhappy about Trump’s return cited reasons such as concerns over his criminal convictions, his behavior, and the perceived threat he poses to democracy and global stability. They criticized Trump for his authoritarian tendencies and disrespect for democratic norms.
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