Coinciding Torments: Trump’s Rhetoric and the Narrative on Mexico
In a previous article in this space of El Economista, we discussed “the storm coming from the north,” referring to President Donald Trump’s statements and those of US officials that suggest a narrative about Mexico is being constructed in Washington. Coincidentally, Trump repeated claims of Mexican territories controlled by cartels while simultaneously causing unease with his usual flair for mixing information, misinformation, and disinformation.
Bob Woodward’s legendary warning upon Trump’s victory in November 2016 should be remembered: “We should be afraid of a second term for Trump; in 2016, he told me that true power for him is fear, and he believes he didn’t use it adequately in his first term.”
A Cruel and Perverse Imposition: The 5% Tax on Remittances
The 5% tax on remittances added to the US government’s budget, proposed by Representative Jason Smith of Missouri in a 1,116-page document, is undeniably cruel. It imposes double taxation on Mexican migrants, affecting their vulnerable family members in Mexico.
This tax on migrants’ remittances harms the very people it targets, only to avoid resistance against lowering taxes for wealthy elites in the US. While the majority in Congress may not lose sleep over this tax, experts predict it will likely be approved alongside Trump’s budget, with the possibility of future renegotiation.
Will We Survive the Future?
Recent articles have sparked reflection on the future of technological revolution through digital platforms and artificial intelligence. These pieces argue that digital platforms create a form of “technofeudalism,” where data has replaced physical capital as the source of power.
They explain that personal privacy is eliminated, and algorithmic transparency turns citizens into mere users. As someone with limited technological knowledge, I ask: Are a few “technofeudal barons” using their platforms to silence dialogue and eliminate healthy political discussion?
Whirlpool of Notes
Two security experts were killed in Tlaquepaque, causing the cancellation of a Roberto Carlos concert for safety reasons. Environmental Minister Alicia Bárcena reminded attendees of the National Encounter of Environmental Authorities about plans to restore 50 severely degraded sites and protect 50% of mangroves.
It’s worth noting the correlation between states dominated by the CNTE (National Coordinating Committee of Educational Workers) and significant educational delays. Joseph Joubert’s timeless wisdom remains relevant: “Genius begins the great work, but labor alone can finish it.”
Key Questions and Answers
- Q: What is the significance of Trump’s rhetoric and actions regarding Mexico? A: Trump’s statements and those of US officials suggest a narrative about Mexico being constructed in Washington, potentially causing unease and fear among Mexicans due to his history of using fear as a form of power.
- Q: What is the impact of the proposed 5% tax on remittances? A: The tax imposes double taxation on Mexican migrants, affecting their vulnerable family members in Mexico and potentially causing financial strain.
- Q: How might digital platforms and artificial intelligence shape our future? A: Some experts argue that digital platforms create a form of “technofeudalism,” where data replaces physical capital as power’s source, potentially silencing dialogue and eliminating healthy political discussion.
- Q: What are the educational challenges in states dominated by the CNTE? A: There is a significant educational delay in states where the CNTE predominates, suggesting potential issues with education policies and implementation.
