Making MAGA Better: A Global Perspective
In a small café in Paris, a group of friends gathered to discuss the latest headlines coming out of the United States. “MAGA,” one of them said, sipping her coffee. “What exactly are they trying to make better? Does anyone really know?”
It was a question echoed around the world. From Tokyo to Nairobi, Sydney to São Paulo, people had been trying to decipher what “Make America Great Again” really meant—and, more importantly, how it could actually be improved.
The MAGA Challenge
Since its inception, MAGA had promised a return to some undefined golden age. The hats, the rallies, the slogans—they all painted a picture of a better America. But for many outside the U.S., it wasn’t clear what Trump or his supporters wanted to change.
“What’s wrong with America now?” asked Rajesh, a university professor in New Delhi. “They’re one of the richest countries in the world, they dominate global culture, and they landed on the moon. What’s the problem?”
In Berlin, Greta, a political analyst, laughed at the idea of MAGA. “Every country has problems,” she said. “But the way they talk about it, it’s as if America is the victim of some grand injustice. It’s hard to take seriously.”
Even in London, where political debates were fierce, MAGA was often met with confusion. “Is it about jobs? Healthcare? Infrastructure? Or is it just about waving flags and feeling patriotic?” wondered David, a journalist.
A Plan for Better MAGA
The world wasn’t dismissive, though. Many global thinkers saw potential in the idea—if only it were focused and inclusive. Here’s how they suggested MAGA could actually get better:
1. Define Greatness
“Before making something great again, you need to define what great is,” said Amina, a sociologist in Nairobi. “Is it economic prosperity? Social harmony? Global leadership? Without clarity, it’s just a marketing slogan.”
2. Include Everyone
Critics pointed out that MAGA often seemed exclusionary. “Making America great should include all Americans,” said Carlos, a human rights advocate in Mexico City. “Right now, it feels like it’s only for a specific group.”
3. Focus on Real Problems
Many outside the U.S. were baffled by the issues MAGA prioritized. “They spend more time talking about banning books than fixing their healthcare system,” said Marie, a nurse in Montreal. “If they want to be great, they should focus on things that actually matter.”
4. Work with the World
“MAGA seems very isolationist,” said Chen, a tech entrepreneur in Shanghai. “But America didn’t become powerful by ignoring the world. If they want to be great again, they need to lead on issues like climate change and global health.”
5. Tone Down the Drama
“The constant fighting and conspiracy theories are exhausting,” said Ingrid, a teacher in Stockholm. “Great nations don’t act like reality TV shows. They act with dignity and purpose.”
The MAGA Dilemma
Back in the U.S., even some MAGA supporters started reflecting on these ideas. At a rally in Texas, one attendee admitted, “I’m here because I love America, but sometimes I wonder if we’re spending too much time arguing and not enough time fixing things.”
Meanwhile, Trump continued to champion his vision. “They don’t understand what we’re doing,” he said during a speech. “And that’s fine. MAGA isn’t for the rest of the world—it’s for us. And we’re doing tremendous things. Tremendous.”
But as the world looked on, many couldn’t help but wonder: If MAGA really wanted to make America better, why not start by making it better for everyone?
