Derek Johnson's Trump Analysis: Strategic Actions
Are you curious about Donald Trump's strategic actions during his presidency? Have you ever wondered how military strategies and government continuity plans intersect with political leadership?
In his book The Midnight Rider Rides Again, Derek Johnson explores Trump's policies and their implications for national security. Derek Johnson's Trump analysis delves into concepts like Operational Security, Center of Gravity, and the War Powers Act, offering a unique perspective on recent political events.
Keep reading to discover Johnson's controversial interpretations of Trump's actions and their potential long-term effects on American governance.
Trump's Strategic Actions: A Deep Dive Into "the Midnight Rider Rides Again"
Operational Security: The Backbone of Military Strategy
In The Midnight Rider Rides Again, Derek Johnson, a staunch supporter of Trump's policies, explores the critical role of Operational Security (OPSEC) in maintaining military supremacy and ensuring government continuity. Johnson's analysis of Trump's strategic actions highlights how OPSEC, established by President Reagan in 1988, aims to protect classified information from falling into the wrong hands.
During the Vietnam War, the U.S. military faced significant challenges due to security breaches. This led to the development of Operation PURPLE DRAGON, which improved communication and security measures. By identifying and addressing tactical vulnerabilities, the military saw a brief increase in operational effectiveness.
The Center of Gravity: Identifying Key Strengths and Weaknesses
Johnson introduces the concept of Center of Gravity (COG), which refers to the source of power that provides moral or physical endurance. In military strategy, identifying your own COG and that of your opponent is crucial. You need to protect your key advantages while seeking to undermine your opponent's strengths.
A prime example of this strategy in action was the British approach to the German battleship Tirpitz during World War II. The Tirpitz posed a significant threat to Atlantic supply routes, but its size made it dependent on a specialized repair facility in Normandy. By targeting this facility, the British effectively neutralized the threat without having to engage the battleship directly.
Trump's Timeline: Laying the Groundwork for Government Continuity
Johnson outlines a series of key policies and actions taken by Trump from 2015 to 2023 that set the stage for executing the government's continuity plan:
- The Law of War Manual (June 2015)
- The Military Justice Act (December 2016)
- Executive Order 13818 (December 2017)
- Executive Order 13848 (September 2018)
- Establishment of the Space Force (December 2019)
- National Emergency Declaration (March 2020)
- Executive Orders 13912 and 13919 (March and April 2020)
These actions, along with the implementation of Federal Continuity Directives, created a framework for maintaining government operations during crises.
Trump as a "wartime President"
Johnson argues that Trump positioned himself as a "wartime president" through his use of the War Powers Act. This allowed him to take on responsibilities typically associated with a nation at war, even in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic.
The War Powers Act required Trump to report to Congress on military actions every 180 days. These reports were meant to outline the nations or organizations involved, assess potential risks, and forecast the scope and duration of military actions.
January 6th and Biden's Inauguration: A Continuity of Government Operation?
Johnson presents a controversial interpretation of the events surrounding January 6, 2021, and Biden's inauguration. He suggests that these events were part of a strategic plan to ensure the uninterrupted operation of governmental duties.
The author points out several unusual aspects of Biden's inauguration, including military activities that deviated from traditional inaugural customs. For example, Biden received a three-volley salute typically reserved for military funerals, rather than the traditional 21-gun salute for new presidents.
Biden's Presidency: Continuity Rather Than Change?
Contrary to expectations, Johnson argues that Biden's policies have largely continued along the path established by the Trump administration. He's extended several of Trump's executive orders, including those related to human rights, election interference, and restrictions on Chinese companies.
Moreover, Biden hasn't introduced any substantial new measures or directives pertaining to military policy. This, Johnson suggests, indicates a persistent commitment to the strategies established for government continuity during Trump's tenure.
The author points to Biden's delegation of duties to the Secretary of Defense under the War Powers Act as evidence of this continuity. This action, Johnson argues, reflects the empowerment sanctioned by Trump and suggests a consistent approach to government functions throughout both administrations.