Trump's Presidency: Power, Profit, and Prisoners Abroad

The State of the Union address, a hallmark of American democracy, has once again brought a big audience for President Trump. However, in the age of algorithm-driven social media feeds, the audience for the speech is increasingly fragmented and entrenched in their political positions. This raises questions about the impact of the address on the broader American public.

Meanwhile, a new report by Citizens for Responsibility and Ethics in Washington (Crew) has shed light on the unusual role of Trump's luxury resorts in the world of politics. Since his inauguration, elected officials have visited Trump properties 145 times, according to records. This has not only provided the President with an additional platform for influence but also a source of profit. A Guardian analysis of campaign finance records found that US political campaigns and committees spent at least $1.3m at Trump properties since January 2025.

This blurring of the lines between politics and business is a hallmark of the Trump presidency. As the President's resorts have become a hub for access and power, they have also raised concerns about conflicts of interest and the use of public office for personal gain.

However, the Trump presidency is not just about power and profit; it also has far-reaching consequences for individuals and communities around the world. Take the case of Jarred Shaw, a 35-year-old American basketball player who is currently languishing in an Indonesian prison. Shaw was arrested in 2023 for possessing cannabis oil, which he used to soothe symptoms of Crohn's disease. Although he escaped execution, his health is now suffering in the harsh conditions of the foreign jail.

Shaw's story highlights the complexities of the Trump presidency, which is marked by a mix of domestic politics and international implications. As the President navigates the complexities of global diplomacy, his administration's policies and actions have real-world consequences for individuals like Shaw.

The intersection of politics, business, and human rights is a critical aspect of the Trump presidency. As the President continues to wield significant influence and power, it is essential to examine the implications of his actions and policies on individuals and communities around the world. The State of the Union address may have brought a big audience for Trump, but it is the human stories like Jarred Shaw's that remind us of the real stakes of the Trump presidency.

In the coming months, the Trump administration will face numerous challenges, from navigating complex global relationships to addressing pressing domestic issues. As the President's resorts continue to serve as a hub for access and power, it is essential to maintain a critical eye on the intersection of politics, business, and human rights. The Trump presidency may be marked by controversy and polarization, but it is the human stories that remind us of the need for accountability, transparency, and compassion.