Donald Trump’s second term as US President has every chance of being even scarier than his first.
The New Yorker was sworn in yesterday for a further four years of his quest to Make America Great Again.
What that means for the rest of the world remains to be seen.
But it’s likely to involve a lot of economic bullying, with imports to the US subject to steep tariffs.
That would be bad news for a number of Scottish exports, particularly the Scotch whisky industry.
Many Scots don’t like Trump, but the reality is he can’t be ignored.
His administration, and its economic policies in particular, will have an impact across the world.
While there is little prospect of Trump trying to annexe parts of the UK, his foreign policy could also have direconsequences for the safety and security of the world.
The president, during his first term, was constrained by experienced and wiser heads in the Republican party.
They have almost all gone, either forced out or retired.
There are precious few people left in Washington who are brave enough to stand up to Trump now.
His administration, including his vice- president, is stuffed full of right-wing political hacks whose primary skill is doing whatever Trump tells them.
Loyalty counts for everything with the Donald.
Perhaps he will fulfil his promise of economic growth and world peace.
No one wants a world of disorder.
But, for now, we must hold our breath and hope for the best.
Debt crisis call
While we should be concerned about Donald Trump returning to the White House, we have more to worry about at home.
The advice charity StepChange has seen a sharp rise in people falling into debt compared to a year ago.
The share of its clients struggling to make mortgage payments has gone up by a third.
And the number of people falling behind on council tax bills has also increased.
And rents remain stubbornly high.
January can be especially challenging due to Christmas expenses and a longer gap between pay days.
But outgoings such as high energy bills are hitting Scots in the pocket no matter the time of the year.
The state must help when it can but it is also important those who feel overwhelmed by debt seek expert advice sooner rather than later and not suffer in silence.
There are people there to help.
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