Through Realism’s Lens: Trump’s Nationalist Rhetoric and the Space Force

• In Event: Presidents and Executive Politics & Public Policy Virtual Poster Session
  In Virtual Poster Session: Presidents and Executive Politics Virtual Poster Session

Abstract

Scholars have analyzed the ideas and ideals that influenced and constituted Donald Trump’s words and actions in a bid to uncover a broad perspective or philosophy that guided his vision of statecraft. Trump, during his presidency, consciously noted the alignment of his foreign policy and security strategy with Realism in some of his official speeches. Realism, a dominant theoretical perspective in International Relations, is rooted in sovereign states advancing their national interests and pursuing power. This paper investigates the influence of realism on Trump's decision to create a new, sixth branch of the United States’ military called the Space Force. It analyzes Trump’s rhetoric and language in his official speeches on the Space Force and finds empirical support for the link between realism’s key assumptions and precepts, Trump's nationalist vision, and his pivotal strategic decision to establish the Space Force.

Author

• Ritu S. Lauer, Peninsula College