Canon's Diary

To be honest, I can’t help but feel deep concern about the recent policies of former President Trump. Upon returning to power, he is going to imposing high reciprocal tariffs on various countries—49% on Cambodia, 46% on Vietnam, 32% on Taiwan, 24% on Japan, and a staggering 104% on China. Reports suggest that China is considering retaliatory measures, and the global economy appears to be on the verge of being plunged once again into deep uncertainty.

The international balance built through free trade in the postwar era is now seriously shaken. With the current situation resembling a trade war, one cannot help but wonder what the future holds for us.

In last year’s election, I believe many Americans chose Trump as a sort of default option. As the campaign progressed into its final stages, I too sensed that his decisiveness and unwavering will might prove pivotal. At the very least, he had shown competence as a businessman, and there was hope that he might bring an end to the prolonged conflicts in the Middle East and Ukraine. After all, he had claimed to be “uninterested in war.”

But what is the reality now? The ceasefire in Gaza has been abandoned, and fighting has resumed. Negotiations with Russia show no signs of progress, and his administration continues to roll out policies that seem to turn away from international efforts on climate change. Large-scale restructuring of government agencies and the abrupt cancellation of social support programs make it feel as though the very foundation of the United States is beginning to shake.

Of course, I am continually struck by his mental toughness and unwavering stance. At the same time, there are moments when his consistent emotional detachment gives me a sense of unease. Having gone through a period of emotional instability myself, I sometimes wonder if he operates within a different emotional framework or cognitive structure than the rest of us.

Through this post, I want to pose a sincere question to my friends in America:

How are you feeling right now? Are you truly okay with the way things are?

Please understand, I ask this not out of a desire to criticize anyone. On the contrary, I ask because I want to believe that America is a nation that moves forward not through division, but through dialogue.

I have received so much hope and courage from my American friends over the years. As someone who grew up in Japan, often looking to America as a role model, I’ve always admired the way the country embraces diverse cultures and values, and how its people overcome adversity with strength and humor. That’s why I feel this so deeply—America has an innate kindness and a spirit that values fairness.

I was especially inspired by President Obama’s words: “Do what you believe is right.” That speech gave me immense encouragement.

And so, I want to ask you—do you feel at peace with the direction America is heading now?

I understand. I know that not everyone feels like a direct stakeholder in this. Even a more distant or observational perspective is welcome—I’d genuinely love to hear your thoughts.