Germany’s ambassador to the United States has warned that the Trump administration will erode democratic norms and centralize power in the presidency. Reuters said it obtained a leaked, confidential document written by Andreas Michaelis and dated Jan. 14.
The news outlet said the ambassador wrote the memo to German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock.
In the document, Michaelis states that the Trump team will pursue an agenda of “maximum disruption.” Michaelis says they will focus on the “maximum concentration of power with the president at the expense of Congress and the states.”
Michaelis also wrote that under Trump, big tech companies will be granted co-governing powers. He claims Trump will undermine U.S. law enforcement and media independence, turning them into “political arms.”
Michaelis further warns that Trump’s newfound alliance with X CEO Elon Musk could lead to the “redefinition of the First Amendment.”
On X, Musk has repeatedly posted support for the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party ahead of Germany’s national election on Feb. 23. This has sparked outrage among Germany’s political parties. However, the German government has not abandoned the social media platform.
Michaelis also asserts that Trump could impose his agenda on states through extensive legal means. He also claimed that “military deployment within the country for law enforcement purposes could be authorized in the event of a declared ‘insurrection’ or ‘invasion.’”
However, the 1878 Posse Comitatus Act prohibits federal troops from engaging in civilian law enforcement unless Congress passes legislation to override the law.
Trump’s transition team has not yet commented on the matter.
What does this mean for U.S.-German relations?
It’s unclear how this incident will impact U.S.-German relations.
During Trump’s first administration, U.S.-German relations were marked by significant tension on several key issues. They include Trump’s criticism of Germany for not meeting NATO’s defense spending target, his opposition to the Paris Agreement, and his stance on trade.
On Sunday, Jan. 19, Germany’s Ministry released a statement to Reuters. The ministry said, “We will work closely with the new U.S. administration in the interests of Germany and Europe.”
