Trump’s Second Term: The First 100 Days
Observation By Ceaser Siwale
President Donald Trump’s return to the White House in January 2025 marked a whirlwind of executive action, sweeping policy shifts, and renewed ideological battles. Within his first 100 days, Trump issued 141 executive orders, reshaping immigration, energy, education, and foreign policy. While supporters hail this period as the dawn of a “Golden Age,” critics warn of constitutional overreach and economic instability.
✅ Key Wins
1. Immigration Crackdown
Trump declared a national emergency at the southern border, reinstated the “Remain in Mexico” policy, and signed the Laken Riley Act, mandating detention of immigrants charged with crimes. These measures led to a 95% drop in illegal border crossings compared to the previous year. Over 150,000 undocumented immigrants were arrested, with 139,000 deported.
2. Energy and Deregulation
The administration rolled back numerous Biden-era environmental regulations, withdrew from the Paris Agreement, and expanded domestic oil and gas production. These actions contributed to a surge in energy exports and a decline in gas prices by over 6%.
3. Economic Initiatives
Trump’s economic policies included imposing steep tariffs on countries like China, Mexico, and Canada, as well as initiating trade talks with nations such as India. These moves aimed to bolster American manufacturing, with companies like Nucor Steel reporting a 25% increase in order backlogs.
4. Cultural and Educational Reforms
The administration targeted diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs, banning gender-affirming care for minors, restricting transgender athletes in women’s sports, and dismantling the Department of Education. These actions were part of a broader effort to combat what Trump described as “woke culture”.
❌ Major Challenges and Criticisms
1. Economic Turbulence
One of the most consequential and controversial moves of Trump’s early second-term agenda was reigniting the tariff war with China. Within the first 100 days, the administration imposed tariffs on more than $300 billion worth of Chinese imports, citing national security and unfair trade practices. China retaliated with its own tariffs on American agricultural and industrial exports, creating immediate uncertainty in global markets. U.S. exporters, particularly farmers and machinery manufacturers, faced declining orders and rising input costs. Although some domestic industries—like steel—saw short-term gains in order backlogs, these were outweighed by inflationary pressures and disrupted supply chains. New tariffs on imports from Mexico, Canada, and the EU further amplified economic strain. Analysts warned that this aggressive protectionism risked triggering a stagflationary environment and undermining fragile post-pandemic recovery. Ultimately, the tariff strategy was viewed by many as a politically driven manoeuvre that offered limited economic upside while deepening global trade rifts.
2. Limited Legislative Achievements
Despite a flurry of executive actions, only five bills were signed into law during this period, marking the fewest legislative accomplishments in the early days of any modern presidency. This reliance on executive orders has raised concerns about the balance of power between the executive and legislative branches.
3. International Relations Strain
Trump’s “America First” approach led to the U.S. withdrawing from international agreements and organisations, such as the World Health Organisation, and imposing sanctions on the International Criminal Court. These actions have been criticised for isolating the U.S. on the global stage.
4. Civil Liberties Concerns
The administration’s aggressive stance on immigration and cultural issues has sparked debates over civil liberties. Policies like ending birthright citizenship (currently blocked by courts) and expanding detention centres have been met with legal challenges and public protests.
📊 By the Numbers
- Executive Orders Signed: 141 (a record for any president’s first 100 days)
- Undocumented Immigrants Arrested: Over 150,000
- Deportations: 139,000
- Illegal Border Crossings: Down 95% compared to the previous year
- Gas Prices: Decreased by over 6%
- Legislation Passed: 5 bills
🧭 Conclusion
President Trump’s first 100 days of his second term have been marked by swift and sweeping actions that have significantly altered the U.S. policy landscape. While supporters commend the administration for fulfilling campaign promises and taking decisive action, critics caution against the potential long-term implications of such rapid changes. As the administration moves forward, the balance between executive authority and democratic checks remains a focal point of national discourse.
