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American Evolution
Portrait of a nation at war: ‘I am just too exhausted to care’
The weight of a new era is pressing in. The second Trump presidency is unfolding against the backdrop of escalating political tensions, geo-economic disruption and shifting demographics. Can the US adapt quickly enough? ST’s US Bureau Chief Bhagyashree Garekar reports as America celebrates its 250th birthday in 2026.
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A protester knocked to the ground by a police horse amid a clear-out during an anti-Trump “No Kings” protest in Los Angeles on March 28.
PHOTO: AFP
- Trump's war on Iran divides the US, with Texas Republicans anticipating economic gains while households feel the squeeze of rising costs.
- Pennsylvania independents, key to Trump's 2024 win, may abandon him in midterm elections due to war anxieties, potentially causing a "blue wave".
- Despite Trump's energy dominance rhetoric, public doubt persists due to war fatigue and distrust, highlighted by civilian casualties and economic strain.
AI generated
PHILADELPHIA – It seemed to me that I had travelled backwards in time, from summer to spring, as I entered Pennsylvania.
Houston was hotter, drier and browner than Singapore when I began the nearly 2,500km drive at end-March. A week later, cherry trees were showing off their pink and white plumage at street corners in Philadelphia suburbs, helping soften the jolts from pitted roads. And I had to bring out a thin jacket for the morning chill.
