Ko, a retired Hong Kong resident, expressed his concerns about the re-election of former US President Donald Trump during a conversation with HKFP. He believes that Trump’s policies are self-centered and lack a global perspective, unlike the Democratic Party, which focuses on democracy, equality, peace, and gender issues. As a former university teacher turned investor, Ko worries about the economic future of Hong Kong and the stability of geopolitics during Trump’s second term.
Ko also mentioned the strained relations between the US and China, predicting that they are unlikely to improve regardless of who is in power. He cited the erosion of Hong Kong’s freedom and human rights as evidence that China does not uphold contractual agreements, leading to a return to a Cold War-like atmosphere on the global stage.
In another part of Hong Kong, Philip, a legal sector clerk, shared his perspective on the US election results. He expressed his belief that Trump’s practical approach to the economy outweighed Harris’s focus on social issues like abortion. Philip anticipates further economic challenges for Hong Kong and mainland China due to Trump’s trade policies, which include significant tariff increases on Chinese goods.
Philip also highlighted the value of freedom in the US electoral system, contrasting it with Hong Kong’s limited democratic representation and recent electoral changes favoring pro-Beijing candidates. He expressed envy for the American ability to choose their leaders, reminiscing about his own voting experiences in Hong Kong.
Chow, an office clerk, voiced her happiness about Trump’s victory, believing that he would bring an end to global conflicts. She referenced Trump’s claim of maintaining peace during his previous term, despite fact-checks disproving his assertions. Chow expressed optimism about the future under Trump’s leadership, particularly regarding US-China relations and cross-strait tensions.
At a local market, Tsim, a stall holder, expressed concerns about Trump’s aggressive stance towards China and its potential impact on Hong Kong. He questioned the motives behind an alleged assassination attempt on Trump, reflecting on the influence of money in politics. Tsim pondered whether wealthy supporters, like those from the tech industry, played a crucial role in Trump’s political success despite his legal troubles.
As Trump prepares to assume office, there are lingering uncertainties about his leadership style and the implications for global affairs. Ko emphasized the US’s responsibility to maintain peace and uphold values beyond its borders, highlighting the interconnected nature of the global economy and the need for cooperation among nations.
In conclusion, the sentiments of Hong Kong residents towards Trump’s re-election reflect a mix of concerns, hopes, and uncertainties about the future. The impact of US policies on Hong Kong, China, and the broader international community remains a topic of interest and discussion among residents as they navigate the evolving geopolitical landscape.
