President Trump has taken swift action during his first 100 days in office, implementing numerous policies through executive orders that have pleased his Republican base while causing concern among Democrats and some within his own party.
Mr. Trump will hold his first rally of his second term in Macomb County, Michigan, a Republican stronghold that helped secure his victory in November. Local Republicans praised his immediate action on campaign promises, with former county GOP chairman Mark Forton noting the president “hit the ground running” with a prepared plan.
Key accomplishments include a 95% reduction in illegal immigrant encounters at the southern border and the creation of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). Led by Elon Musk, DOGE has reportedly reduced the federal workforce and is on track to save an estimated $160 billion through various cost-cutting measures. President Trump has also signed executive orders ending diversity, equity, and inclusion programs in government and education, and banned males from competing in female-only sports at institutions receiving federal funding.
However, Mr. Trump’s trade policies have caused significant concern. His implementation of across-the-board tariffs, particularly a 145% tariff on Chinese imports, has sent the stock market into volatility and raised fears of a recession. Sen. Ron Johnson, while supportive of the president’s other initiatives, expressed concern that businesses “will go bankrupt because of this.” Polls reflect this unease, with a Fox News survey showing only 33% of registered voters approving of the president’s tariff policy.
Despite these concerns, the tariffs are generating up to $305 million daily in federal revenue and have prompted some manufacturers to plan new U.S. facilities to avoid these costs. Some pollsters suggest Mr. Trump’s approval ratings remain relatively strong given the polarized political climate.
The administration faces additional challenges from the judicial system, which has issued numerous injunctions blocking full implementation of deportations and government downsizing efforts. In response, Republican legislators are considering bills to limit district courts’ ability to issue nationwide orders.
Overall, while President Trump’s base remains largely supportive of his rapid implementation of campaign promises, his trade policies have created economic uncertainty and political division three months into his second term.
Read more: Hot out of the gate: Trump thrills base in dizzying first 100 days
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