As President Donald Trump marks his first 100 days back in office, his second term has already been defined by sweeping executive actions, economic turbulence, and deep political polarization. From record-breaking executive orders to controversial tariffs and a dramatic reshaping of the federal government, here’s a comprehensive look at the key developments—and their implications—so far.

# **1. Executive Power at Full Throttle**

Trump has shattered records for executive orders, signing **143 in his first 100 days**—far surpassing his predecessors and even his own first-term pace . These orders have targeted:

- **Government downsizing**: The creation of the **Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE)**, led by Elon Musk, has led to tens of thousands of federal layoffs, though the exact number remains unclear .

- **Immigration crackdowns**: Mass deportations and stricter border policies have reduced illegal crossings to a historic low of **7,180 in March** .

- **Reversing Biden policies**: Over **100 Biden-era executive orders** were revoked, including those on climate, DEI initiatives, and COVID-19 measures .

However, **over 200 lawsuits** have been filed against these actions, with courts blocking several, including birthright citizenship challenges .

# **2. Economic Rollercoaster: Tariffs, Inflation, and Market Volatility**

Trump’s aggressive trade policies have dominated economic headlines:

- **Tariffs**: A **28% average effective tariff rate**—the highest since 1901—has sparked fears of a global trade war. While supporters argue they protect U.S. industries, critics warn they’ll raise consumer prices .

- **Market reaction**: The **S&P 500 dropped 7%**, marking the worst stock performance in a president’s first 100 days since Gerald Ford in 1974 .

- **Inflation**: Though down to **2.4% in March**, economists predict tariffs could reverse this trend .

Public opinion is split: **59% disapprove of the tariff focus**, with many independents and moderates expressing frustration over rising costs .

# **3. Immigration: A Defining—Yet Divisive—Issue**

Trump’s hardline stance has delivered results but also backlash:

- **Border crossings plummeted** to record lows due to mass deportations and stricter enforcement .

- **Legal challenges**: Courts have blocked parts of his policies, including detentions of legal residents .

- **Public opinion**: While **52% approve of deportations**, 59% oppose revoking visas for protesters, and 75% reject mistakenly deporting legal residents .

Despite GOP support, immigration approval has slipped among independents, suggesting diminishing returns politically .

# **4. Shrinking Government: DOGE and Federal Cuts**

The **Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE)** has spearheaded drastic cuts:

- **Tens of thousands of layoffs**, though chaotic implementation led to some reinstatements .

- **Agencies dismantled**: USAID, parts of the State Department, and NIH funding have faced deep cuts, raising concerns about medical research and diplomacy .

- **Public skepticism**: **59% say cuts are "too careless,"** and 51% believe they’ll make government run worse .

Elon Musk’s role remains contentious, with **55% of voters saying he has "too much power"** .

# **5. Approval Ratings: Polarization and Decline**

Trump’s second-term honeymoon was short-lived:

- **Current approval**: **39–45%**, down from post-inauguration highs and lower than past presidents at this stage .

- **Partisan divide**: **75% of Republicans approve**, but **93% of Democrats disapprove**—a gap wider than in his first term .

- **Key weaknesses**:

- **Economy**: 55% disapprove of his handling (down from earlier highs) .

- **Tariffs**: 61% disapprove .

- **DEI cuts**: 61% oppose ending diversity programs .

Independents, crucial for 2024, are increasingly critical, with **49% giving Trump an "F"** for his performance .

# **Conclusion: A Presidency of Extremes**

Trump’s first 100 days have been marked by **unprecedented executive action, economic uncertainty, and deepening divides**. While his base remains loyal, broader disapproval—especially on tariffs and government cuts—suggests challenges ahead. Legal battles, market instability, and midterm elections will test whether this aggressive start leads to lasting change or backlash.

For now, one thing is clear: Trump’s second term is anything but conventional.

**Key Sources**: [Pew Research], [NPR], [NY Times], [PBS], [Washington Post], [CBS News], [NBC News], [Hearst TV].