Scotland, the land of bagpipes, kilts, and breathtaking Highlands, has stumbled upon an idea so radical and unexpected that it might actually work: engage with Donald Trump.

That’s right, the nation known for its deep-seated pride and occasional anti-American sentiment is now considering cozying up to the man who turned his name into a global brand and his presidency into a movement. The goal? Reap the benefits of a new era of U.S.-Scottish cooperation under “Trump 2.0.”

It’s a fascinating shift, to say the least. For years, Scotland has had a somewhat rocky relationship with Trump. His sprawling golf courses on Scottish soil have sparked everything from environmental protests to political spats. The elites mocked him, the tabloids scorned him, and yet, the man endured. With Trump poised to re-enter the White House, Scottish business leaders are rethinking their stance. Maybe, just maybe, working with Trump isn’t such a bad idea after all.

At the heart of this change in tone is one undeniable fact: Trump knows how to make deals. Whether you love or loathe him, the man has a knack for turning opportunities into successes. His America First policies may have ruffled feathers abroad, but they also delivered results for the U.S. economy. Scotland’s leaders are beginning to realize that those same policies could benefit them—if they’re smart enough to seize the moment.

Think about it. Trump has always been a champion of strong bilateral relationships. Unlike his predecessors, who prioritized sprawling, ineffective global agreements, Trump prefers one-on-one negotiations that prioritize mutual benefits. For Scotland, this presents a unique opportunity. By engaging directly with a Trump-led America, they could secure trade deals, boost tourism, and attract American investment—all while bypassing the cumbersome bureaucracy of the European Union.

But let’s not get ahead of ourselves. This isn’t just about economics; it’s about image. For years, Trump has been painted as a divisive figure in Scotland, a caricature of brash Americanism that didn’t quite fit with the country’s reserved demeanor. Engaging with Trump 2.0 would require a willingness to set aside past grievances and embrace a partnership based on pragmatism rather than ideology. That’s easier said than done, especially in a political climate where even the mere mention of Trump’s name can spark heated debates.

Of course, the critics are already sharpening their knives. They’ll say that working with Trump is a betrayal of Scotland’s values, a sellout to a man they’ve long viewed as an antagonist. But here’s the thing: values don’t pay the bills. Scotland, like any other nation, needs to prioritize its economic well-being. And right now, aligning with Trump offers a path to growth that’s too promising to ignore.

What’s more, Scotland could serve as a blueprint for how other nations engage with a Trump-led America. Instead of resisting and alienating, they could opt for collaboration and mutual respect. It’s a strategy that could yield dividends not just for Scotland, but for any country willing to look beyond the headlines and focus on the bigger picture.

There’s also a certain irony in all of this. For years, Trump’s critics in Scotland dismissed him as a pariah, a disruptive force that didn’t belong in their carefully curated narrative of progressivism and inclusivity. Now, those same critics are starting to see the potential benefits of having Trump in their corner. It’s a reminder that, in the end, pragmatism often trumps ideology.

So, what’s the takeaway here? Scotland’s decision to engage with Trump 2.0 isn’t just a strategic move; it’s a recognition of reality. Love him or hate him, Trump is a force to be reckoned with. His return to power could reshape the global landscape, and Scotland stands to benefit—if it plays its cards right. It’s a bold gamble, but then again, fortune favors the bold. And if there’s one thing Trump and Scotland have in common, it’s a shared determination to win.