Donald Trump has launched his second term with a seismic shift in US politics, consolidating power and leaving no corner of the government untouched. In just one week, Trump has turned campaign promises into actions, reasserting his “promises made, promises kept” mantra in sweeping and controversial ways.
On day one, Trump signed a record-breaking number of executive orders, surpassing any president in history. These moves have reshaped immigration policy, eliminated birthright citizenship, and narrowed the government’s recognition of gender to just two categories. He also purged diversity efforts and dismissed internal watchdogs, cementing his control.
Trump’s term began with a highly polarizing act: pardoning 1,500 Capitol rioters from the January 6 insurrection. “We are so back,” echoed through the White House, as aides celebrated what they called unprecedented progress.
The former reality TV star leaned into spectacle at his inaugural celebrations, claiming to be “saved by God” to restore America’s greatness and even performing a sword dance. Elon Musk, one of Trump’s high-profile allies, hailed the moment as the “return of the king.”
On the world stage, Trump wasted no time asserting US dominance. Appearing on a massive screen at the Davos forum, he issued a stark ultimatum: manufacture in the US or face hefty tariffs. Greenland and Panama became targets of his territorial rhetoric, with Trump calling their sovereignty into question.
Cementing his “America First” stance, Trump pulled the US out of the Paris climate agreement and the World Health Organization. His trade threats signal a hardline approach to globalization.
“Early in his new term, emboldened by his astonishing resurrection, Trump appears to be Godzilla domestically and abroad,” said Larry Sabato, director of the University of Virginia’s Center for Politics.
Not all has been smooth within Trump’s inner circle. Elon Musk, initially seen as a staunch ally, publicly criticized Trump’s ambitious AI infrastructure project, claiming it lacked funding. The outburst blindsided the White House, but Trump dismissed the critique, remarking, “Elon, one of the people, he happens to hate. But I have certain hatreds too.”
Foreign deals and senate drama
Trump also flexed his deal-making skills internationally. After challenging Saudi Arabia to spend $500 billion on US products, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman upped the offer to $600 billion. In true Trump fashion, he pushed for $1 trillion during a speech at Davos.
Domestically, Trump faced hurdles with Cabinet appointments. Pete Hegseth’s confirmation as Defense Secretary passed the Senate by a razor-thin 51-50 vote, with JD Vance casting the deciding vote. Trump dismissed opposition from Mitch McConnell, saying, “Winning is what matters.”
Critics warn of a dark turn
Trump’s second term has revived fears of an “imperial presidency.” While Trump’s supporters tout his rapid accomplishments, critics highlight troubling signals. Neo-Nazi groups have appeared at anti-abortion rallies, and pardoned far-right militia leaders have begun Capitol tours.
“Trump would love to restore the so-called imperial presidency that existed from Franklin Roosevelt in the 1930s until Richard Nixon’s fall in 1974,” Sabato noted. However, he added, “Trump lacks the strong public support necessary to sustain the tough image he’s projecting.”
Trump’s message of a “golden age” has also drawn scrutiny. Grocery prices remain high, and his promise to end the war in Ukraine within 24 hours remains unfulfilled. Despite these challenges, his administration has leaned into steely discipline and messaging, creating an aura of control.
As Trump’s whirlwind first week sets the tone, one question looms large: Will this “second coming” achieve his promised transformation, or will it crumble under the weight of its own contradictions?
