Trump’s First 100 Days full of Controversy, Dystopia, and Bluster

Posted byMichael

Where It Will Stop Nobody Knows

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Trump’s first 100 days in his second term have sparked significant controversy and criticism, particularly in areas like immigration, civil rights, discrimination, and the economy.

Immigration: His administration intensified immigration enforcement, leading to mass deportations and family separations. Justifiably, Trump receives criticism for Policies targeting sanctuary cities and undocumented immigrants, which creates fear and instability among immigrant communities. Deportations included vulnerable individuals, such as children with severe health conditions.

Civil Rights and Discrimination: Executive orders dismantling diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs roll back progress in civil rights. The administration’s stance on LGBTQ+ rights has been particularly contentious, with actions that restrict transgender individuals’ access to federal resources and recognition.

Economy: The reintroduction of high tariffs on imports from key trading partners like Canada, Mexico, and China disrupted global trade and led to market instability. The S&P 500 experienced a notable decline, marking one of the weakest stock market performances in the first 100 days of any presidency since the 1970s. These actions have drawn legal challenges and public outcry, highlighting the polarizing impact of Trump’s policies during this period. During his first term, Trump entered office with a Republican majority in Congress, yet struggled to fulfill many of his campaign promises within the first 100 days.

His administration focused on rolling back Obama-era regulations, initiating tax reform, and signing 24 executive orders. Notable actions included the controversial “Muslim ban” and efforts to begin the construction of a border wall. Despite these moves, Trump’s legislative achievements were limited, and his approval ratings hovered around 40%. A characteristic of his leadership style is the unpredictability and frequent reversals on key issues, such as NATO and relations with China.

In contrast, Trump’s second term began with a Republican trifecta in government, enabling him to implement his agenda more effectively. Within the first 100 days, he signed over 140 executive orders, surpassing his previous record. These orders targeted immigration enforcement, reduced federal spending, and eliminated diversity, equity, and inclusion programs.

His administration also focused on trade policies, imposing import tariffs, and negotiating new trade deals. Trump’s leadership style in his second term has been more decisive and strategic, leveraging billionaire advisers and a streamlined executive team. While both terms showcased Trump’s reliance on executive orders, the scope and impact of these actions have expanded significantly in his second term. A learning curve and legislative gridlock marked his first term, whereas his second term reflects a more aggressive and nasty approach to governance. However, both periods have faced legal challenges and public scrutiny, highlighting the polarizing nature of his presidency.

In conclusion, Trump’s first 100 days in office during his second term demonstrate a shift towards a more focused and ambitious leadership style, contrasting with the trial-and-error approach of his first term. This evolution underscores the complexities of his presidency and the enduring debates surrounding whether the United States of America can long endure. To paraphrase Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., “if something isn’t done, and done in a hurry,” America is headed for a downfall.  

Harold Michael Harvey, JD, is a two-time award-winning author for his memoir, Freaknik Lawyer: A Memoir on the Craft of Resistance, and the historical novel, Watch Night, Our Souls Cried out for Freedom: A Narrative History of Bethel Christian Methodist Episcopal Church, Macon, Georgia, from 1863 to 2023. Harvey is a past president of the oldest Black Bar Association in Georgia and founder of the Gate City Bar Association Hall of Fame. An avid baseball fan, he is a voting member of the National College Baseball Hall of Fame. Harvey is an engaging public speaker. Contact Harvey at [email protected].

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Published by Michael

Harold Michael Harvey is a Past President of The Gate City Bar Association and is the recipient of the Association’s R. E. Thomas Civil Rights Award. He is the author of Paper Puzzle and Justice in the Round: Essays on the American Jury System, and a two-time winner of Allvoices’ Political Pundit Prize. His work has appeared in Facing South, The Atlanta Business Journal, The Southern Christian Leadership Conference Magazine, Southern Changes Magazine, Black Colleges Nines, and Medium.