Donald Trump
By Chris Williams
Donald Trump is celebrating his first 100 days as the 47th president of the United States with a rally in Michigan, a battleground state pivotal to his decisive victory over Kamala Harris in November. This milestone marks the beginning of what is already one of the most radical and impactful presidencies in U.S. history. However, polls reveal growing public disenchantment with the economic and political tumult, alongside disapproval of his aggressive policy actions. Below is a comprehensive overview of Trump’s first 100 days, focusing on economic and political upheaval, public sentiment, key policies, and significant events like the Michigan rally and Elon Musk’s role.
Economic and Political Tumult
Trump’s second term has ushered in significant economic and political instability. His imposition of sweeping tariffs has rattled markets, with the S&P 500 dropping 9% since his inauguration and hitting an 18% decline after the initial tariff announcement on April 8. Investors fear that these policies, combined with threats to influence the Federal Reserve, could destabilize the economy further. A Reuters/Ipsos poll indicates that only 37% of Americans approve of Trump’s economic management, down from 42% post-inauguration, with two-thirds expressing concern about stock market volatility and 52% worried about retirement security.
Politically, Trump’s administration has been chaotic. His reliance on over 140 executive orders to push his agenda has sparked legal battles and accusations of overreach. The drastic reduction of the federal workforce, spearheaded by Elon Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), has led to mass layoffs and operational disarray, exacerbating public unease. This turmoil has eroded the traditional honeymoon period, leaving Trump’s approval ratings at historic lows.
Public Disapproval
Public support for Trump has waned quickly. A Washington Post and ABC News poll shows that only 39% of Americans approve of his presidency, a stark contrast to the 50% or higher approval most presidents enjoy at this stage, per Pew Research Center data. Even on immigration—historically his strongest issue—Trump faces net disapproval due to controversial deportations without due process. A CNN poll underscores this decline, noting his 100-day approval as the lowest in seven decades, with just 36% of women, 28% of Hispanics, and 31% of independents approving. The Economist/YouGov reports 54% of Americans view him unfavorably, matching his first term’s nadir. Trump has dismissed these polls as “fake” on Truth Social, insisting his administration is “doing GREAT,” but the numbers tell a different story.
Key Policy Actions
Tariffs
Trump’s tariff strategy has been bold and disruptive. He imposed a 10% baseline tariff on all imports, with higher rates for countries with large U.S. trade deficits, aiming to boost domestic industry. However, this has triggered stock market turmoil and fears of a global trade war, with the Yale Budget Lab reporting a 28% effective tariff rate—the highest since 1901. Automakers have been hit hard, though Trump softened some tariffs recently, prompting a rebound in global share prices. Critics, including Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell, warn that these policies could reignite inflation, a concern Trump has tacitly acknowledged by backtracking on threats to fire Powell.
Immigration
Trump’s aggressive immigration crackdown has reduced border crossings to a 25-year low of 8,450 in February 2025, largely through measures like invoking the Alien Enemies Act for deportations without judicial review. While effective in curbing illegal entries, these tactics have sparked outrage and legal challenges, with polls showing only 45% approval on this issue—a drop from earlier highs. The controversy underscores a divide between Trump’s base and broader public opinion.
Executive Orders
With over 140 executive orders, Trump has stretched presidential authority to its limits. These include attempts to end birthright citizenship (a constitutional right), cut university funding, and pressure law firms tied to past legal foes. Many orders face court scrutiny, reflecting a pattern of rapid policy-making met with resistance. This approach contrasts sharply with his first term, where survival amid disloyal advisors constrained his ambitions.
The Michigan Rally
On Tuesday, Trump hosts a rally in Michigan to mark his 100 days, aiming to energize his base in a state that flipped to him in November. The event is classic Trump—high-energy and symbolic—held in a battleground that reflects his electoral strength. Amid declining approval, the rally is a critical opportunity to counter negative narratives and reinforce his leadership image.
Elon Musk’s Role and the Federal Workforce
Elon Musk, Trump’s billionaire ally, has been a driving force behind the administration’s radical agenda. Leading DOGE, Musk has overseen the firing of tens of thousands of federal workers, aiming to streamline government but resulting in chaos and legal reinstatements. Critics argue there’s scant evidence of savings, and 57% of Americans, per polls, believe Musk wields excessive influence. His presence in cabinet meetings and access to sensitive data systems have amplified concerns about his outsized role.
The federal workforce has borne the brunt, with layoffs and resignations disrupting government functions. This upheaval, alongside Musk’s involvement in trade and immigration policy, has deepened public skepticism about the administration’s direction.
Broader Impacts
Foreign Aid
Trump has slashed most foreign aid, reshaping U.S. global relations. This move, intended to prioritize domestic needs, has alarmed allies and raised fears about stability, from disease control to diplomatic leverage. European leaders, like France’s Emmanuel Macron, have voiced concerns, particularly amid tensions over Ukraine.
Stock Market
The stock market’s rollercoaster reflects Trump’s policy swings. Tariffs drove an initial plunge, but softening measures spurred recoveries. Uncertainty persists, with businesses delaying investments as they navigate the administration’s unpredictable trade stance.
Federal Reserve
Trump’s threats to oust Jerome Powell have unsettled markets, though he recently retreated from this stance. Powell’s warnings about tariff-driven inflation highlight a tense dynamic, with the Fed’s independence at stake. This back-and-forth has fueled economic volatility.
Ukraine War
Trump’s campaign pledge to end the Ukraine war in 24 hours remains unfulfilled. Russia rejected a ceasefire, and Trump admitted to Time magazine that the promise was “in jest.” This gap between rhetoric and reality has drawn criticism, especially as his perceived coziness with Vladimir Putin strains ties with Europe.
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