President Donald Trump has been an enduring subject of contention and fascination around the globe, as his Presidency has come with a lot of change and criticism.
However, an archival video showing a younger Trump has caused quite a buzz on TikTok, leaving many bewildered by his once markedly different stance before entering the political realm. Believed to be recorded in 1980, the clip showcases a youthful Trump with views that seem alien to the figure we now associate with the US leader.
The footage is stirring debates among viewers awed by his evolution over the decades. In this vintage interview regarding the prospect of running for president, Trump stated: “I really don’t believe I would, your honour. But I would like to see somebody as a President who could do the job, and there are very capable people in this country.”
He goes on to say it’s a “shame” that numerous men avoid politics, noting that the “most capable people” often abstain from political careers.
When discussing his personal detachment from politics, he added: “Because I think it’s a very mean life. I would love, and I would dedicate my life to this country, but I see it as being a mean life.”
Trump observed: “And I also see it that somebody with strong views, and somebody with the kinds of views that are maybe a little bit unpopular, which may be right, but may be unpopular, wouldn’t necessarily have the chance of getting elected against somebody with no great brain but a big smile, and that’s a sad commentary for the political process.”
The clip has gained significant traction online, with many users expressing shock at Trump’s dramatically different tone in the 80s. Comments flooded in with reactions to the old video, including: “Little did she know she planted the seed that changed the world.”
Another added: “Barron looks so much like him here.” A third online user stated: “It’s crazy to think that the man he was describing in 1980 would be the man he is in 2024.”
Meanwhile, someone else wrote: “It was never supposed to be a popularity contest.”
Meanwhile, Trump recently announced a decision set to send shockwaves globally once more, by confirming a massive tariff of 25% on imported US cars.
The anticipated response of other nations retaliating could escalate an international trade war, with severe potential repercussions for affected regions worldwide. The president has confirmed a uniform tariff of 25% on imported vehicles and particular components, due to be implemented from the start of April for cars and May for parts.
Mexico, having exported close to 2.8 million cars to the US last year, is set to experience the most substantial individual impact. However, global manufacturers will also feel the pinch.
In 2021, the US imported roughly eight million cars, with foreign vehicles accounting for nearly half of all sales in the country. The estimated value of these imports stands at about £186 billion, but this figure skyrockets to almost £370 billion when parts are factored in.