Lawsuits, executive actions, confirmations and golf trips: Trump’s first 100 days
In his first 100 days of the second term, President Trump, in collaboration with Elon Musk, has aggressively pursued a strategy to dismantle the administrative state, characterized by a flurry of executive orders aimed at cutting federal funding, firing federal workers, and imposing tariffs. His actions include significant policy shifts such as rescinding equal opportunity requirements in government hiring, directing military involvement at the border, and attempting to reinterpret constitutional amendments. Despite these efforts, Trump's approval ratings have slipped, and his tariff plans have led to market instability, contradicting his promises to lower consumer goods prices. Meanwhile, Musk's involvement has negatively impacted Tesla's business as the administration's climate-change denial stance conflicts with Tesla's foundational mission. Trump's foreign policy was notably marked by a contentious meeting with Ukrainian President Zelensky, highlighting his admiration for Russian President Putin and sparking unexpected diplomatic tensions.
Trump has signed more executive orders than any president except Roosevelt, focusing on cutting government size and funding, challenging constitutional norms, and implementing policies favored by his political base, such as banning trans girls from sports teams.
Efforts to reduce the federal workforce have included firing probationary workers and encouraging early retirements, though the exact number of intended cuts remains unclear, reminiscent of past workforce reductions during the Clinton administration.
Trump's border policies have effectively decreased encounters and shut the border to asylum seekers, using military deployments and deportation efforts to deter migration, while controversially attempting to rename the Gulf of Mexico.
His economic policies, particularly the imposition of a universal 10% tariff on imports, have caused market volatility and investor uncertainty, with added tariffs planned to promote domestic manufacturing despite likely increases in consumer prices.
Elon Musk's role in the administration has inadvertently harmed Tesla's market position, with Trump's climate change denial and fossil fuel prioritization conflicting with Tesla's environmental objectives.
Foreign policy tensions surfaced during a public confrontation with Ukrainian President Zelensky, reflecting Trump's complex relationship with Russia and raising diplomatic stakes, while his preference for opulence was evident in his redecorated Oval Office.
Despite significant Cabinet confirmations, the administration struggles with numerous unfilled positions and aims to reclassify bureaucracy roles, seeking to streamline government operations in line with Trump's agenda.