Senator Bernie Sanders has accused President Donald Trump of favoring authoritarian powers over democratic allies. Sanders made this statement in response to Trump’s recent praise for Saudi Arabia and its Crown Prince, Mohammed bin Salman.
Sanders Slams Trump’s Saudi Arabia Praise
Sanders stated that Trump “hates Europe’s democracies” because they support universal healthcare, strong social welfare systems, and labor unions. Instead, Trump prefers the “brutal dictatorship” of Saudi Arabia, which is run by a single trillionaire family. Sanders views this as a betrayal of American values.
Trump Praises Saudi Crown Prince
Last month, President Trump welcomed Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman to the White House, calling him “fantastic,” “brilliant,” and a “very good friend.” Trump praised the Crown Prince’s accomplishments and human rights record, highlighting the strategic importance of their alliance. He also emphasized the billions of dollars in planned Saudi investments in the US and strengthened defense ties between the two countries.
Trump Policies Fuel Tensions with European Democracies
The Trump administration’s National Security Strategy has been criticized for supporting populist and far-right movements that challenge European democracies. This has led to increased tensions between the US and European countries, particularly with regards to healthcare and social welfare systems. Critics argue that Trump’s policies exacerbate Europe’s struggles to provide universal healthcare and other public services, fueling disillusionment among working-class and young people.
Sanders Criticizes Trump’s Support for Authoritarianism
Sanders has previously criticized Trump’s support for authoritarian leaders, including the Saudi Crown Prince. He has accused Trump of embracing “authoritarianism” and rewarding Saudi elites while ordinary Americans struggle with rising healthcare costs. Sanders has also questioned Trump’s “America First” credentials, arguing that his policies prioritize the interests of authoritarian regimes over those of the American people.
Business Ties Between the US and Saudi Arabia
The US and Saudi Arabia have significant business ties, particularly in the tech industry. Elon Musk, CEO of Tesla, attended a White House dinner with the Saudi Crown Prince, where they discussed investments in AI and technology. This highlights the ongoing business relationships between the two countries, despite criticisms of Saudi Arabia’s human rights record and authoritarian government.