To say the political landscape in the states has become rather divisive would be the understatement of the century. There are, in no uncertain terms, two diametrically sides that fundamentally disagree on almost everything, to the extent that they don’t just disagree with each other; they legitimately hate each other. This is, obviously, a pretty depressing sight to witness as an outsider and it’s one that has seemingly had a ripple effect across the rest of the developed world too.
On the 13th of July 2024, however, those divisions were underlined, quite literally with a bullet. The assassination attempt on Donald Trump catalysed a groundswell of enthusiasm among US right wingers and literally within days, all the hyperbole on both sides about “focusing on what brings us together rather than what drives us apart” fell apart like wet bread.
Of course, when Kamala Harris stepped up to the plate as the new Democratic nominee that same month, things seemed to even out a little, but the hate still remains. Indeed, you could argue her rise to the top of the ticket actually emboldened that hate. But let’s take a step back, ignore that bile and, as creatives, ask what either candidate would legitimately mean for our industries and our careers. I promise I’ll try to be as bipartisan as possible!
What if HE Wins?
As the possibility of Donald Trump winning a second term looms over the horizon, creatives in the United States and beyond are left pondering what his return to the Oval Office might mean for the industry. The Trump presidency from 2017 to 2021 was nothing short of polarising, and while his policies touched every sector, the creative community found itself uniquely affected.
If Trump were to return, the impact on creatives could range from advantageous tax policies to potentially stifling cultural and social climates. Let’s sift through the misinformation and bias to understand what a second Trump term could truly mean for the creative sector.
The Good: Tax Cuts and Economic Policies
One of the most significant aspects of Trump's first term was his focus on economic deregulation and tax cuts. The 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA) reduced the corporate tax rate from 35% to 21%, which had a mixed reception among creatives, especially those running small businesses or freelancing. The lower tax rates did provide some financial relief, allowing more room for investment in creative ventures, from launching startups to funding personal projects. A second Trump term could bring about similar economic policies, potentially lowering the financial burden on creatives.
Moreover, Trump’s emphasis on deregulation could lead to fewer constraints for businesses, including those in the creative sector. Fewer regulations might mean more flexibility in how creative agencies and freelancers operate, particularly when it comes to innovation in digital media, advertising, and even content creation. For those who thrive in less regulated environments, this could present opportunities to push boundaries and explore new creative avenues.
The Bad: Cultural Polarisation and Artistic Freedom
However, the benefits of a more favourable tax regime are counterbalanced by the cultural and social environment that Trump’s leadership fosters. The previous Trump administration was marked by a deepening divide in American society, and this polarisation inevitably seeped into the creative industries. Art, after all, does not exist in a vacuum; it reflects and reacts to the societal context in which it is produced.
Under Trump, the emphasis on “America First” policies often translated into a cultural climate that was less welcoming to diverse voices, particularly those from marginalised communities. For creatives whose work centres on themes of diversity, inclusion, or social justice, a second Trump term could pose significant challenges. The potential resurgence of nationalist rhetoric could lead to a chilling effect on artistic expression, particularly in areas that critique or challenge the status quo. Creatives might find themselves navigating an environment where their work is either co-opted or suppressed, particularly if it is seen as oppositional to the administration’s values.
The Ugly: Impact on Global Collaboration and Funding
Global collaboration is the lifeblood of the creative industry, with ideas, talent, and projects crossing borders more freely than ever before. However, Trump's first term saw a rise in isolationist policies, including stringent immigration controls and a reduced emphasis on international cooperation. For the creative industry, which thrives on diversity and global perspectives, this could spell trouble.
A second Trump term could see further restrictions on visas and immigration, making it harder for international talent to work in the United States. This would not only limit the diversity of voices within the U.S. creative sector but could also discourage international collaboration. For an industry that relies heavily on cultural exchange, such restrictions could stifle innovation and creativity.
Additionally, Trump’s previous cuts to funding for the arts, including proposed budget reductions for the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) and the Public Broadcasting Service (PBS), could resurface. Reduced funding would disproportionately affect smaller, independent creative projects that rely on grants and public funding to survive. The loss of these resources could lead to a more homogenised creative landscape, where only commercially viable projects find support.
Conclusion: Navigating the Uncertainty
The prospect of a second Trump term brings with it a mix of potential opportunities and significant challenges for creatives. While there may be some economic benefits, particularly for those running businesses, the broader cultural and social implications could create a more hostile environment for artistic freedom and global collaboration.
Creatives must prepare to navigate this uncertain landscape, finding ways to leverage potential economic advantages while remaining resilient against the cultural and social pressures that may arise. It will be essential for the creative community to stay connected, support diverse voices, and advocate for the freedom to create in all its forms, regardless of the political climate.
In the end, whether Trump’s potential second term proves to be a boon or a bane for the creative industry will largely depend on how creatives choose to respond—by either adapting to the new reality or pushing back against it in pursuit of artistic and cultural freedom.