President Donald Trump marked the first 100 days of his second term on Tuesday, hailing what he called sweeping accomplishments amid growing national and international tension. Despite his self-congratulatory tone, polls reveal a public increasingly uneasy with his policies and leadership style.
To celebrate the milestone, the 47th president held a rally in Michigan, a key battleground state that supported him over Kamala Harris in November. “I think either we’ve done everything, or it’s in the process of being done,” Trump declared before flying to the event in Warren.
A Presidency Unlike Any Other
Trump’s return to office has been marked by aggressive changes. Backed by billionaire Elon Musk, his administration has slashed the federal workforce, imposed wide-ranging tariffs, and withdrawn foreign aid. Diplomatic relations have been strained, with Trump berating long-standing allies and ignoring international norms.
Public sentiment appears to be cooling. A Washington Post–ABC News poll shows just 39% approval, with disapproval even on once-popular issues like immigration. The administration faces backlash over deportations carried out without due process.
Economic Jitters and Policy Reversals
Wall Street has dropped over 6% since Trump’s inauguration. On Tuesday, markets saw a slight rebound after reports that Trump would ease tariffs on automakers. He has also stepped back from firing Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell, who cautioned that trade policies risk fueling inflation.
Power Consolidation and Cultural Symbolism
Inside the White House, Trump has made symbolic changes—replacing Barack Obama’s portrait with a painting of himself surviving an assassination attempt. He’s also pressured law firms and slashed funding to universities seen as critical of his leadership.
Legal Challenges and Executive Overreach
Trump has issued more than 140 executive orders, many facing legal scrutiny. He’s pursued controversial policies, including attempts to end birthright citizenship and allowing Musk to cancel Congressional funding.
Despite a Republican-controlled Congress, Trump’s bold moves have alarmed legal experts and energized political opponents. Democrats, struggling in polls, blame Trump for economic instability and warn of a looming “Trump recession.”
Supporters Remain Loyal
Still, Trump’s base remains loyal. At the Michigan rally, attendees like Donna Fitzsimons expressed strong support: “We don’t care about tariffs. People don’t realize it takes time to get where you need to go.”
Unkept Promises and Foreign Policy Tensions
Trump’s campaign promise to end the Ukraine war in 24 hours remains unfulfilled. Though he now claims the pledge was “in jest,” he reportedly made the vow dozens of times before taking office.
As his second term progresses, Trump appears intent on defying norms and pushing boundaries—even as public patience wears thin.
