A recent analysis delves into the tumultuous initial 100 days of a potential second presidential term for Donald Trump, characterising the period as simultaneously the “most disruptive and unpopular” and “one of the most sweeping and ambitious” in modern American history.
The commentary, penned by Dr Michael Jonathan Green, chief executive officer at the United States Studies Centre, and originally published by Korea JoongAng Daily on May 2, 2025, provides a critical perspective on the rapid and far-reaching policy shifts enacted or pursued during this nascent phase of the administration.
Confronting Institutions and Reshaping Domestic Policy
The period saw a significant confrontation with established domestic and international institutions. Domestically, actions included threatening to block or actually blocking tens of billions of dollars in federal funding for universities, specifically citing institutions like Harvard, over concerns regarding their academic and admissions procedures. More dramatically, the commentary notes the unprecedented step of arresting a federal judge, based on allegations of assisting an immigrant’s escape.
Alongside these actions, the administration introduced what the analysis describes as “draconian new measures” impacting both legal and illegal immigration. These policies reportedly included steps such as deporting legal residents and controversial practices like family separation, despite the administration achieving a reduction in unauthorized border crossings.
In a symbolic, though highly unusual, move, the administration also proceeded with renaming the Gulf of Mexico the “Gulf of America”.
Paradoxically, amidst this internal upheaval, the analysis suggests that the intensity of the administration’s actions had the effect of unifying congressional Republicans, consolidating support around the executive’s agenda.
Realigning Foreign Policy and Global Engagements
The administration’s foreign policy during this initial phase demonstrated a clear departure from traditional approaches. Key actions included pressuring Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky regarding peace terms, signaling a potential shift in the U.S. stance on the conflict. Threats were also directed towards NATO, raising questions about the future of the transatlantic alliance.
Furthermore, the administration implemented a freeze on most U.S. development assistance, indicating a significant recalibration of America’s global aid strategy.
Economic Impacts and Public Sentiment
The economic landscape during the first 100 days became a focal point of public concern. A key policy driver was a dramatic increase in average U.S. tariffs on imports, surging from under 3% to over 25%. The commentary attributes the exacerbation of inflation and a hindrance to economic investment directly to these tariffs, citing their unpredictability as a major factor.
Public perception of the economy suffered during this time, with voters expressing concerns over rising prices and falling retirement accounts. This sentiment translated into a net negative public rating on the economy. Approval stood at 39%, a stark contrast to the nearly 60% approval recorded at the time of the election.
Similarly, despite efforts to curb unauthorized border crossings, the administration’s performance on immigration also received a net negative public rating. This was linked to public opposition to some of the more controversial measures implemented, such as the potential deportation of legal residents or policies involving family separation.
Conclusion: A Period of Disruption and Redefinition
In summary, the analysis by Dr. Michael Jonathan Green presents the first 100 days of a potential second Trump administration as a period marked by intense activity, significant policy shifts, and considerable disruption. While framed by supporters as ambitious steps aimed at redefining America’s domestic and international posture, the commentary highlights the controversial nature of many actions and their tangible impact on institutions, the economy, and public opinion, leaving a complex legacy of change and considerable unease.
