Former Singaporean diplomat Bilihari Kausikan joins Jim and Ray to discuss the implications of Donald Trump’s second term and his “America First” policies for Asia.

Bilihari emphasizes that a focus on domestic policy is not unusual for U.S. presidents, and that Asian countries have learned to adapt practically to American policy changes. In fact, he believes that the current administration’s policies are closer to America’s historical norm than many realize.

Ultimately, he believes that American stability is crucial for Asian prosperity, and that Asia needs continued U.S. military presence.

According to Bilihari, Asians have different expectations for the so-called rules-based order than wester ...