The Scottish Government and the Scottish Greens have expressed contrasting views on the potential impact of Donald Trump’s second term as US President, particularly regarding Scotland’s green energy sector and diplomatic relations.
Deputy First Minister Kate Forbes has suggested that Trump’s presidency could bring unexpected benefits to Scotland’s clean energy industry. She stated: “If an investor wishes to invest in clean energy, they may now look again at the United Kingdom, and again at Scotland, because there is that regulatory and that policy certainty about our move over (to net zero).”
Forbes highlighted Scotland’s significant offshore wind capacity, noting: “We have 40GW of offshore wind in the pipeline, and you’ll know if you do the maths, at peak time our needs as a country are far less than that in terms of electricity, so the opportunity to invest in data centres, all these intensive industries that rely on clean energy, is huge”
In contrast, the Scottish Greens have taken a strong stance against any engagement with the Trump administration. Patrick Harvie, co-leader of the Scottish Greens, urged the Scottish Government to refuse meetings with Trump during his potential visit to Scotland. Harvie stated: “The prospect of four more years of a racist, climate-wrecking and misogynistic Donald Trump in the White House is one that should concern us all.”
He emphasised the need for the government to stand for human rights and equality, values he believes Trump opposes.
The Scottish Government, however, has defended its position on engaging with the Trump administration. First Minister John Swinney rejected calls to boycott meetings with Trump, with Forbes agreeing that the Scottish Government has a “duty to stand up for” businesses in Scotland.
Forbes argued: “My argument would be you can disagree with the leader while still engaging with that nation’s economy, and I’m afraid that you also have to work through that leader.”
The clash of views extends to the broader political landscape in Scotland. Scottish Labour leader Anas Sarwar advocated for a “grown-up approach” to dealing with Trump, stating, “While I fundamentally disagree with Donald Trump’s politics, which I have been outspoken in criticising, he has been elected by the American people to be their president.”
Sarwar emphasised the need to work with those they disagree with to secure benefits for Scotland, particularly on issues such as tariffs. As Trump’s inauguration approaches, the debate in Scotland highlights the complex balance between economic opportunities, diplomatic relations, and ethical considerations in international politics.