THE DANGERS OF A TRANSACTIONAL PRESIDENT
In recent years, the term “transactional” has become increasingly common in describing President Trump’s leadership style. But what does it mean to have a “transactional” president, and why is this potentially dangerous?
What does “Transactional” behavior mean?
Transactional behavior refers to decisions primarily based on exchanges or quid pro quo. Essentially, it’s a bargaining relationship where actions and decisions are driven by the expectation of something in return. Transactional leaders operate on a system of rewards and punishments, focusing on immediate, tangible, and pragmatic results instead of long-term policy.
The dangers of a transactional president
Presidential transactional behavior may turn toxic when the decision-making is grounded in political self-interest and prioritizing deals based on personal gain or short-term political benefit, approaching negotiations or international relations with a mindset that sees alliances as commodities and seeks immediate returns for actions rather than focusing on fostering long-term partnerships or advancing core political principles.
Is this a warning, the beginning of a transactional deal to capture the favor of the unions?
The International Longshoremen’s Association is about keeping total control of the nation’s unionized port operations and, more specifically, fighting the type of automation that will speed up the loading, unloading, and handling of containers as is done in most international ports. The union is threatening a strike to keep automation at bay, featherbed the workforce, and significantly increase wages and benefits without a corresponding increase in productivity.
There is no doubt that the crippling effects of dockworkers’ labor actions would have far-reaching consequences, directly disrupting the flow of raw materials, finished products, and essential supplies and stalling any economic recovery as backlogs in shipping and delays in production timelines ripple throughout industries reliant on timely imports and exports. Given the interconnectedness of today’s global economy, even short-term delays in port operations can cause cascading effects, leading to shortages, inflation, and reduced consumer confidence.
So, why am I not surprised President Trump is taking a pro-union stance?
[OCS: It is important to note that foreign port operators have a significant foothold in our ports. The impact of foreign operators, particularly China, on port operations in the United States has been significant and multifaceted. Chinese companies, such as COSCO Shipping, have become major players in global shipping, and their involvement in U.S. ports has raised concerns related to national security, economic influence, and supply chain control. China’s strategic investments in U.S. ports, including ownership stakes in terminals, have led to debates about the potential for Chinese control over critical infrastructure. While these investments bring financial benefits and improved operational efficiencies to port operations, there is growing scrutiny over the risks associated with foreign entities controlling key logistics hubs, particularly in times of geopolitical tension. And that inefficiencies and the cost of labor drive inflation and the cost of imported goods and raw materials.] |
The union response...
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Dear Brothers and Sisters, I had the honor of meeting with President-elect Donald Trump yesterday, and I want to share an experience I never imagiined in my wildest dreams. Throughout my career, I've never seen a politician-let alone the President of the United States -truly understand the importance of the work our members do every single day. But yesterday, President-elect Trump not only demonstrated that understanding but also showed the utmost respect for the hard work, sacrifices, and dedication of our membership. He was not just attentive to our concerns; he was receptive and genuinely engaged in a discussion about the existential threat automation poses-not only to the Longshore sector but to our communities and the very fabric of this great nation. It's rare to meet a leader who truly listens, and even rarer to find one who is willing to act. Let's put politics aside for a moment, as I know it can be challenging for some to grasp. But I witnessed something extraordinary firsthand-this man truly wants to fight for America and its working class. In over 25 years of working in Washington, I have never seen a Republican take up the mantle for working-class people. President-elect Trump proved me wrong yesterday. He didn't just tell us in private that he supports workers-he made it clear to the whole world. As we move forward, let us focus on the opportunities ahead. I will continue to fight for your jobs, our communities, and the future of the working class in this country. In solidarity, |
Bottom line…
While transactional leadership can be effective in specific, short-term scenarios, its application at the level of the presidency poses significant risks to the health of our democracy and the stability of our economy.
There is no doubt that transactional leadership can blur ethical boundaries and create opportunities for corruption with the potential to undermine the very foundations of democracy, as we have seen in the Clinton, Obama, and Biden Administrations.
Will President Trump and the GOP adopt a political style more suited to the progressive communist democrats rather than the constitutional conservatives in the Republican Party?
With all politicians, it is not a matter of if you will be screwed but a matter of when.
The antidote is a vigilant public willing to stand up and call bullshit when things appear dodgy.
-- Steve
“Nullius in verba”-- take nobody's word for it!
"Acta non verba" -- actions not words
“Beware of false knowledge; it is more dangerous than ignorance.”-- George Bernard Shaw
“Progressive, liberal, Socialist, Marxist, Democratic Socialist -- they are all COMMUNISTS.”
“The key to fighting the craziness of the progressives is to hold them responsible for their actions, not their intentions.” – OCS "The object in life is not to be on the side of the majority, but to escape finding oneself in the ranks of the insane." -- Marcus Aurelius “A people that elect corrupt politicians, imposters, thieves, and traitors are not victims... but accomplices” -- George Orwell “Fere libenter homines id quod volunt credunt." (The people gladly believe what they wish to.) ~Julius Caesar “Describing the problem is quite different from knowing the solution. Except in politics." ~ OCS