Key Takeaways:
- President Trump marks 100 days in office with a rally in Michigan, touting executive actions and economic shifts.
- His approval ratings remain historically low amid rising legal battles and public skepticism over tariffs and deportations.
- The administration claims progress on inflation, border security, and trade, but faces mounting lawsuits and international tensions.
WASHINGTON, April 25, 2025 — President Donald Trump marked his 100th day in office with a rally in Macomb County, Michigan, emphasizing what he called sweeping achievements in reshaping the federal government, cracking down on immigration, and reforming trade policies. While supporters lauded his decisive leadership, critics pointed to growing discontent, legal pushback, and international concern.
Speaking at Macomb Community College, Trump hailed executive actions that have slashed the federal workforce, scaled back diversity programs, and imposed broad tariffs on imports. “Inflation is cooling, jobs are returning, and America is back in charge,” he declared.
Sharp Economic and Political Divides
Despite these assertions, a CNN poll revealed that a majority of Americans believe Trump’s policies have worsened the economy. With a 42% approval rating—the lowest for any president at this stage in office in modern history—Trump faces deep skepticism even as he touts lower gas prices and reduced consumer inflation.
Treasury officials say the president will ease auto tariffs to aid a struggling industry, but economists caution that the overall 28% average effective tariff rate remains a burden. Trump claims to have signed over 200 trade deals, though no details have been disclosed.
Related post: China’s economy grew by 5.4% in first quarter of 2025 but US tariff shock looms large
Border and Legal Battles Intensify
The administration reports record-low illegal border crossings and aggressive deportation operations, arresting over 32,000 migrants in 100 days. However, lawsuits from advocacy groups challenge the legality of wartime authorities used to detain migrants without due process, including controversial transfers to foreign prisons.
Trump has reversed over 100 Biden-era policies and signed just five bills into law. Legal experts warn that his approach—relying heavily on executive orders—is testing the constitutional limits of presidential power. The courts have yet to weigh in on dozens of challenges, including those targeting federal layoffs and the elimination of DEI programs.
Mixed Signals on Foreign Policy
Trump’s early vow to end the war in Ukraine was later downplayed as “jest,” though the White House insists progress has been made. Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt claimed over 75 hostages have been freed and touted strengthened ties with Israel.
As the president enters his second 100 days, his administration remains defined by sweeping changes, partisan polarization, and mounting legal and political battles.