As of April 29, 2025, President Donald Trump marked the first 100 days of his second term, initiating a series of bold and often controversial policies that have reshaped both domestic and international landscapes.
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šļø Domestic Policy Highlights
Executive Actions: Trump signed 143 executive orders, setting a record for his administration. These included mass deportations, the elimination of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) policies, and a rollback of environmental regulations.
Government Downsizing: The administration reduced the federal workforce by nearly 250,000 employees, aiming to streamline operations and cut spending.
Cultural Policies: Efforts were made to dismantle "woke" ideologies, including the removal of protections for gender-affirming care and the cessation of federal incentives for electric vehicles.
Immigration: The administration reinstated travel bans on specific countries and closed the U.S.-Mexico border, leading to a significant reduction in illegal crossings.
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š Foreign Policy and Global Relations
Tariffs and Trade: Trump imposed steep tariffs on trading partners, including China and the European Union, aiming to protect American industries. However, these measures have led to market instability and strained international relations.
Diplomatic Shifts: The administration's "America First" approach has led to a retreat from global institutions and a more isolationist stance, alienating traditional allies and diminishing U.S. soft power.
Middle East Policy: Proposals for Gaza have failed to produce results, and overtures towards Russia have not yielded significant diplomatic gains.
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āļø Legal and Ethical Considerations
Clemency for January 6 Offenders: Trump granted clemency to approximately 1,500 individuals convicted of offenses related to the January 6 Capitol attack, including members of extremist groups. This move has been widely criticized by legal experts and counterterrorism researchers.
Controversial Pardons: The administration also pardoned individuals with serious criminal backgrounds, raising concerns about the integrity of the justice system.
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š Public Perception and Political Impact
Support Base: Trump's approval among his base remains high, with many rallygoers expressing strong support for his immigration policies and cultural initiatives. However, some attendees have voiced concerns about the economic impact of tariffs and the administration's communication strategies.
International Relations: Allies, including Australia, have faced strained relations and economic penalties due to Trump's foreign policies, leading to a reevaluation of U.S. leadership on the global stage.
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President Trump's first 100 days have been marked by significant policy shifts and a departure from traditional diplomatic norms. While his supporters view these actions as fulfilling campaign promises, critics argue that they have led to increased polarization and international instability.