Key Concepts
- Executive Orders: Directives issued by the US President that manage operations of the federal government.
- Tariffs: Taxes imposed on imported goods.
- National Emergency: A provision allowing the President to exercise powers beyond those normally granted during times of crisis.
- Partisan Gridlock: A situation in which political parties are unable to compromise, leading to legislative stalemate.
- Midterm Elections: Congressional elections held in the middle of a president's term.
- "America First" Policy: A foreign policy approach prioritizing US interests above all others.
Domestic Policy Shifts & Actions
The first year of Donald Trump’s presidency, beginning with his inauguration as the 47th US president, was characterized by a rapid and extensive series of policy changes. He immediately signaled a shift towards an “America First” agenda, promising a “golden era” of national flourishing and renewed global respect. This was manifested in an unprecedented volume of executive action; Trump issued 26 executive orders on his first day, ultimately signing over 200 throughout the year.
A key focus was on reversing established policies. The administration withdrew the US from both the Paris Climate Agreement and the World Health Organization, citing unfair financial burdens imposed on the United States. This decision signaled a rejection of international cooperation on global issues.
Immigration became a central domestic issue. Trump declared a national emergency at the southern border, deploying troops to “seal it off” and increasing the capacity of detention centers. Large-scale raids targeting undocumented workers were conducted, leading to accusations of “violent and heavy-handed tactics” by enforcement officers and sparking significant protests, notably in Los Angeles. In response to protests and after an incident involving National Guard troops in Washington D.C. (including the shooting of two and the arrest of an Afghan national), the administration announced an expansion of a travel ban to encompass over 30 nations, described as originating from the “third world,” ostensibly to enhance national security. Trump stated, “I don't want them in our country, I'll be honest with you.”
Foreign Policy & Military Actions
The Trump administration also pursued a more assertive foreign policy. This included the implementation of “punishing tariffs” on numerous countries, including allies like Canada and Mexico, aiming to “level the playing field.”
Military actions were also undertaken, with the US “flexing that military might” in the Caribbean and Eastern Pacific. Reports indicated the US Navy fired upon boats suspected of drug trafficking, resulting in numerous fatalities. These actions drew criticism for potentially violating international law.
Political Confrontation & Government Shutdown
Domestically, the administration faced significant political opposition. A 43-day federal government shutdown occurred due to “partisan gridlock” between Democrats and Republicans over healthcare subsidies. This represented the longest shutdown in US history, highlighting the deep divisions within the political landscape.
Department of Defense Renaming & Focus
A symbolic, yet significant, change was the renaming of the Department of Defense to the Department of War. The White House justified this change as a means to “convey a stronger message of readiness and resolve,” emphasizing a focus on “winning wars, not just perpetually defending.”
Looking Ahead: Midterm Elections
The report concludes by highlighting the importance of the upcoming 2026 midterm elections. These elections will serve as a “litmus test” for Trump, determining the balance of power in Congress and the viability of his agenda. The elections will also indicate whether his political base remains “intact.”
Francis Co, reporting for CGTN Washington, delivered this assessment of the first year of the Trump presidency.
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