In the latest episode of America: A History in the Making, we dive into the aftermath of the recent election, exploring the notable absence of allegations regarding electoral fraud compared to previous years. We also analyze Trump's controversial appointments and the potential ideological shifts in U.S. policy, particularly concerning immigration and foreign relations, and the evolving dynamics between the U.S. and Russia, especially in light of the ongoing war in Ukraine, and the political maneuvering surrounding American support for Ukraine. ... Special guest for this episode: Dafydd Townley, a teaching fellow at the University of Portsmouth, whose research interests include the US presidency, particularly in relation to US national security policy ... Highlights from this episode: The 2023 election demonstrated a surprisingly straightforward outcome, reducing claims of electoral fraud compared to previous years. Dafydd Townley discusses how the Republican Party's victory influenced the acceptance of election results by Democrats. Trump's appointments reflect his transactional approach to politics, prioritizing loyalty over broader governance issues. The implications of Trump's foreign policy could shift towards isolationism, impacting global alliances and conflicts. Concerns arise that Ukraine may become a political pawn in U.S. domestic power struggles post-election. The discussion highlights the tension between national security interests and diplomatic relations under Trump's administration. ... And if you like this episode, you might also love: Will America Ever Elect a Woman for President? Should Donald Trump Be Allowed to Run for President? What is a Primary and a Caucus? Who is Ron DeSantis? How Are Presidents Elected? Why Did the USA Drop Atomic Bombs on Japan? How to Run a Democratic Election: Part II ... Thank you for listening to our podcast. It's a labor of love by an American history nerd and some smarter folk. Making it does come at a small cost so if you'd like to help: Individuals - support the show with a one-off or monthly donation: https://america-a-history.captivate.fm/support Universities & Colleges - become an academic partner or email [email protected] for more info Your support helps us keep the show running, and it is highly appreciated! Are you a University, college, or higher education institution? Become an academic partner and your name will appear right here.