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Three reasons why the Trump soap opera is good for the world, and will ring in America’s finest hour

Charles R. Stith says Donald Trump’s isolationism will move the Franco-German leadership to steer world affairs, with China inspired to be a stabilising influence, as America’s constitution and institutions once again carry the day

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US President Donald Trump and first lady Melania Trump dance at the inaugural Armed Services Ball in Washington on January 20. Photo: EPA

It seems light years ago that Donald and Melania Trump were dancing the inaugural night away to I Did It My Way. Given his unorthodox presidential campaign, no song seemed more fitting. But, in the almost 200 crazy days since then, it is the opening line of his signature dance tune – “and now, the end is near” – that seems downright providential.

With the stench of Russian involvement in the 2016 election looming large over his presidency, it does indeed seem that Trump’s days in The White House are numbered. Whether it’s the charge of collusion or obstruction of justice, there seems to be enough to make impeachment inevitable.

Both the scope of the charges and the speed with which they have crippled the Trump presidency, make Richard Nixon’s Watergate pale in comparison. Never has a presidency spun out of control at such a dizzying pace.

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The probability of impeachment aside, Trump’s halting attempts at governing have been no less staggering. Whether it is bashing allies, cosying up to dictators, denying climate change, or the conflicts of interest of his family and “friends” – it has been something to behold. Oh, and let’s not forget the tweet tirades.

We’ve gone from “no drama Obama” to all drama Trump, from a 24-hour to a 24-minute news cycle. The Trump presidency has taken soap opera to another level. It is like watching Scandal meets House of Cards on steroids.

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While this is not the way to run a country, as a morality play it does have some redeeming value or value of interest. Like any morality play, there are some profound lessons to be drawn.

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