# Global Trust in US Wanes Despite Midterm Shift International observers remain skeptical that US midterm results will reverse Trump’s disruptive policies. - **Source:** [The New Arab](https://www.newarab.com) - **Published:** 2026-11-07 - **Topic:** [politics](https://brifing.si/c/politics) - **Original article:** - **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/140916f5-c96c-462f-afa1-9e7fa23aa1dd ## Midterm Results Spark Skepticism The recent US midterm elections resulted in Democrats gaining control of both houses of Congress. While this shift signals a check on presidential power, global observers remain deeply cautious. Many international leaders and citizens argue that a single election cycle is insufficient to restore the credibility lost during the Trump administration. ## Persistent Executive Power Concerns German Chancellor Friedrich Merz noted that President Trump has largely governed without congressional support for two years. Observers fear that the administration may continue its combative foreign policy and tariff wars regardless of the legislative turnover. The core concern is whether the US can maintain consistent, predictable international commitments moving forward. ## Economic Impact of Tariffs Global businesses, including aluminum factories in China and agricultural producers in Australia, continue to face significant financial strain from existing tariffs. Despite hopes for policy reversals, many industry leaders doubt that the new congressional majority can effectively dismantle the administration's broader trade agenda or mitigate the ongoing economic volatility. ## Institutional Trust Remains Fragile International stakeholders emphasize that regaining trust requires consistent respect for democratic institutions and the rule of law. While some business leaders in Switzerland and Hong Kong find the robustness of US institutions encouraging, they warn against naivety. The 'America First' doctrine remains a dominant force that transcends current legislative election outcomes. ## Immigration Policy Uncertainty For many aspiring immigrants, the American dream remains on hold due to restrictive visa policies and crackdowns. Individuals working in the US tech sector express anxiety regarding whether the midterm shift will lead to tangible policy changes. The current environment makes the United States appear as a destination to be avoided. ## Geopolitical Stability Questions The US has faced criticism for its handling of conflicts in Iran, Ukraine, and Gaza, which have further eroded international confidence. Analysts suggest that the primary question for global allies is not whether America is back, but rather what specific direction the nation will take and how long that stability lasts. ## Business Sector Realities Major trade groups, such as Japan's Keidanren, maintain that strengthening economic relations with the US remains essential despite political tensions. However, executives expect the administration to potentially lean into more unpredictable foreign policy maneuvers. Companies are bracing for continued political shear, prioritizing long-term resilience over short-term legislative changes in Washington. ## The Challenge of Future Governance These midterms represent the most significant power shift since 1974, yet the path forward remains obscured by deep-seated distrust. Whether the US can pivot toward a more collaborative global stance depends entirely on future actions. For now, the world watches with nervous anticipation to see if meaningful change actually materializes. ## Sources covering this story - https://www.newarab.com/news/after-midterm-rout-trumpism-world-struggles-trust-us — --- _Summary written by Brifing from the original reporting. Copyright in the original article belongs to its publisher; read the full piece at the link above._