Ed Davey gets all populist on Donald Trump's ass

Embed from Getty Images

Ed Davey has issued a statement on Twitter this morning:

This is a dark, dark day for people around the globe. The world’s largest economy and most powerful military will be led by a dangerous, destructive demagogue. 

The next President of the United States is a man who actively undermines the rule of law, human rights, international trade, climate action and global security. 

Millions of Americans – especially women and minorities – will be incredibly fearful about what comes next. We stand with them.

Families across the UK will also be worrying about the damage Trump will do to our economy and our national security, given his record of starting trade wars, undermining NATO and emboldening tyrants like Putin. 

Fixing the UK’s broken relationship with the EU is even more urgent than before. We must strengthen trade and defence cooperation across Europe to help protect ourselves from the damage Trump will do. 

Now more than ever, we must stand up for the core liberal values of equality, democracy, human rights and the rule of law – at home and around the world.

Given the British public's view of Trump - according to James Chapman, a recent poll showed 61 per cent are hoping for a Harris victory tomorrow, including 58 per cent of those who voted Conservative in July - this is a thoroughly populist effort.

Which is good. British liberals need to sound as though they are on the side of the voters rather than lecturing them. Though I do feel sympathy for government ministers, who will have to try to maintain a reasonable relationship with their US counterparts in the new administration.