The World with Richard Engel and Yalda Hakim: What Trump’s Win Means for the World

Release Date: November 6, 2024
Hosts: Richard Engel (NBC News) and Yalda Hakim (Sky News)

Introduction

In the premiere episode of "The World," Richard Engel and Yalda Hakim delve into the implications of Donald Trump’s unexpected victory in the U.S. presidential election. Broadcasting from Washington D.C. and New York, the hosts provide comprehensive coverage of the election outcomes and explore the global ramifications of Trump's second term.

Election Night Coverage

Timestamp [00:00 - 01:43]

Yalda Hakim opens the episode from Washington D.C., recounting the intense 12-hour election night coverage. Richard Engel joins from NBC News in New York, confirming that "Donald Trump has been elected a second term" with NBC calling the election at 276 electoral votes for Trump to 219 for his opponent ([01:27]). The hosts discuss the meticulous process of election tabulation and the anticipation surrounding Trump’s victory, emphasizing the significance of accurate reporting amidst competing networks declaring results at different times.

Demographic Shifts and Voting Patterns

Timestamp [02:27 - 04:26]

Hakim and Engel analyze the pivotal demographic changes that contributed to Trump’s victory. Yalda notes, “it was when a state like Florida... we realized actually something here is shifting with the demographics” ([02:41]). The discussion highlights how Trump successfully expanded his base beyond the traditionally described "white, non-college-educated men" to include working-class Latinos and young men ("frat boys") who resonated with his persona ([03:43]).

Richard points out, “The women vote proved to be not as consequential... young women, which is women in general, came out to tip the balance” ([04:03]). This election marks the first time Trump secured the popular vote, surpassing Hillary Clinton by over five million votes compared to Biden’s previous margins of 6-7 million ([04:26]).

International Reactions

Timestamp [04:58 - 09:34]

The hosts examine global responses to Trump’s victory. President Zelensky of Ukraine publicly congratulates Trump, stating, “I appreciate President Trump's commitment to the peace through strength approach” ([05:00]). However, Yalda expresses skepticism about Zelensky’s optimism, recalling past apprehensions about Trump’s stance on Ukraine ([05:30]).

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is notably pleased, viewing Trump’s return as a reinforcement of formidable U.S.-Israel ties. Netanyahu’s immediate actions, such as firing his defense minister, signal confidence in Trump’s support for regional policies ([08:51]). Yalda further discusses Trump's instructions to Netanyahu to conclude operations in Gaza swiftly, noting the potential impact on Arab and Muslim voters in battleground states like Michigan ([09:34]).

Implications for Ukraine and Global Security

Timestamp [05:30 - 13:55]

Engel raises concerns about Ukraine’s future under Trump, questioning whether Ukraine might face abandonment similar to Afghanistan ([06:12]). The conversation shifts to wider geopolitical tensions, including Iran and China. Yalda references Ambassador Kevin Rudd’s insights on China’s unease with Trump’s “madman theory” ([11:45]), while Engel emphasizes the dangers of such unpredictability, particularly regarding Taiwan and Middle Eastern stability ([12:16]).

Yalda details Trump's dismissive stance on Taiwan, highlighting his statement, “Taiwan, not my problem, not my business” ([12:16]). This raises alarms about potential shifts in U.S. support for international alliances and security agreements.

NATO and U.S. Alliances

Timestamp [14:26 - 16:07]

The discussion moves to NATO, with Yalda reflecting on Trump's previous demands for increased defense spending from NATO members. She poses a critical question: “If he doesn’t fundamentally believe in the organization... you could actually cripple it” ([15:37]). Engel suggests that Trump's re-election might pressure NATO countries to enhance their defense budgets but warns of the potential risks if Trump's commitment to collective security wanes ([14:54]).

Yalda predicts that European leaders should be particularly concerned about Trump's transactional approach to alliances, prioritizing deals over traditional collaborative relationships ([15:37]). This could lead to strained relations and diminished support for international coalitions.

China and Future Geopolitical Landscape

Timestamp [10:57 - 17:32]

Addressing China, Yalda recounts Ambassador Rudd’s assessment of Trump’s unpredictability being a significant concern for Chinese strategic planning ([10:57]). Engel underscores China’s mixed feelings, recognizing both potential strategic advantages and the risks posed by a chaotic U.S. leadership ([17:32]). The hosts contemplate how China might leverage American instability to advance its global ambitions while managing its economic interests tied to the U.S.

Concluding Insights and Predictions

Timestamp [16:07 - 18:19]

As the episode wraps up, Engel and Yalda share their forecasts for the international landscape under Trump’s administration. Yalda envisions enhanced military actions by allies like Netanyahu against Iran, exacerbating regional tensions ([16:07]). Engel warns of destabilizing factors such as potential strikes on Iran’s nuclear facilities and the uncertain future of Taiwan and NATO ([17:32]).

The hosts conclude with a sense of impending global shifts, emphasizing the need for vigilant analysis and strategic planning in response to Trump’s presidency.

Notable Quotes

• Donald Trump [00:00]: “They came from all quarters, Union, non Union, African American, Hispanic American, Asian American, Arab American, Muslim American. We had everybody and it was beautiful.”
• Richard Engel [00:27]: “It looks very likely that Donald Trump has been elected a second term.” ([00:27])
• Donald Trump [07:28]: “We want to have borders, we want to have security. We want to have things be good, safe. We want great education. We want a strong and powerful military. And ideally, we don't have to use it.” ([07:28])
• Benjamin Netanyahu (via Yalda Hakim [08:51]): “Congratulations on history's greatest comeback.”
• Kevin Rudd (via Yalda Hakim [12:16]): “Taiwan, not my problem, not my business.”

Conclusion

Richard Engel and Yalda Hakim provide a thorough analysis of Donald Trump’s election victory, highlighting significant demographic shifts, the reconfiguration of international alliances, and the potential for heightened global tensions. The episode underscores the profound impact of U.S. presidential outcomes on worldwide stability, security, and diplomatic relations. As Trump embarks on his second term, the world watches closely to navigate the ensuing geopolitical challenges.