Trump & Turnover: What It Says About Leadership

With the U.S. elections just around the corner, we’re more divided than ever—not just in America, but globally. This isn’t about picking sides. Every one of us has values, beliefs, and a vision of the future that guide our choices. But regardless of our political stance, there's a powerful lesson on leadership that I think is worth reflecting on.

Take Trump’s first term, for example. Looking back, many of the key figures he once surrounded himself with—James Mattis, Rex Tillerson, John Kelly, H.R. McMaster, John Bolton, Jeff Sessions, Mike Pence, William Barr—are no longer in his corner. These were high-caliber leaders who were brought on to help drive a vision. And yet, over time, they parted ways.

Here’s the thing about leadership: it’s not just about having a seat at the head of the table; it’s about creating an environment where people feel connected to the mission, valued in the process, and aligned to stay through the challenges. When top people consistently leave, it raises a question—was there alignment, trust, or shared vision from the start?

In any team, strong leadership builds stability. It fosters loyalty, inspires trust, and creates a culture where everyone’s committed to the bigger picture. And when the opposite happens—frequent turnover, shifts in loyalty—it signals a potential disconnect. Maybe it’s the clarity of the direction, maybe it’s the culture, or maybe it’s the approach.

The lesson here? Leadership is about bringing people together for the long haul, not just for a single season. It's about fostering a team that’s not only willing to step up but willing to stay, grow, and push boundaries alongside you.

Whether you’re red or blue, there's something all of us can learn as we move forward and make choices about our future.