Trump’s First 100 Days: A Nation Divided Amid Economic Turmoil

Introduction: A Promise of Grandeur, A Reality of Division

When Donald Trump took office for his second term on January 20, 2025, he vowed to deliver the “most extraordinary first 100 days of any presidency in American history.” For many, that promise has materialized, but not in the way they hoped. Public sentiment, as reflected in recent polls and reader reactions, paints a picture of a polarized nation grappling with economic uncertainty, controversial policies, and what some describe as “extraordinary destruction.” This blog post dives into the public’s verdict on Trump’s initial 100 days, exploring the economic fears, divisive trade policies, and the sharp decline in his approval ratings that have defined this period.

The Public’s Verdict: Polarization and Discontent

Public opinion polls conducted in April 2025 reveal a stark shift in Trump’s standing. His approval rating, which started relatively high for his historical standards, has plummeted to around 40%, with some polls reporting as low as 39%—the lowest 100-day approval rating for any president in over 80 years. The Washington Post-ABC News-Ipsos poll notes that 55% of Americans disapprove of his performance, with independents, a crucial voting bloc, breaking heavily negative at 58% disapproval. This marks a significant drop from February, when his approval was closer to 49%.

Readers surveyed by The Guardian echo this discontent, with many labeling the first 100 days as “the 100 worst days of my life” or fearing a “Trumpression”—a Trump-led economic depression. Small business owners like Steven G. Hittelman from California express alarm over rising supply costs due to Trump’s trade policies, while others, like Ryan Sweet from South Carolina, warn of strides toward authoritarianism. These sentiments highlight a deep divide: while 86% of Republicans still approve of Trump’s performance, only 10% of Democrats do, and independents are increasingly skeptical.

Economic Fears: Tariffs and Recession Risks

At the heart of public concern is the economy, an issue that propelled Trump to victory in 2024. His “Liberation Day” tariffs, announced on April 2, 2025, imposed sweeping levies, including 125% on Chinese imports and 10% on goods from over 75 other countries. These policies aimed to bring jobs back to American shores but have instead triggered market volatility and widespread anxiety. The S&P 500 dropped 9% since Trump’s inauguration, with an 18% plunge on April 8 when tariffs took effect. The International Monetary Fund slashed its U.S. GDP growth forecast to 1.8%, and 72% of Americans, including 51% of Republicans, believe Trump’s policies will lead to a recession, according to the Washington Post-ABC News-Ipsos poll.

Consumers are feeling the pinch. A PBS News/NPR/Marist poll found that 64% of Americans expect grocery prices to rise, with egg cartons already hitting $7 in some areas. Steve Egan, a Trump voter and business owner, told Reuters that tariffs have disrupted his promotional product sales, reflecting broader concerns among Trump’s base. Economists warn that the costs of tariffs may fall on American consumers, with 57% of respondents in an NPR/PBS News/Marist poll saying they hurt the economy.

Trade War Fallout: Global and Domestic Repercussions

Trump’s trade war has not only rattled domestic markets but also strained international relations. His tariffs have prompted retaliatory measures, disrupting global supply chains and reducing U.S. imports. Bookings for freight ships from China to the U.S. have plummeted, and small businesses reliant on trade are struggling. Trump’s rhetoric, including threats to “take back” the Panama Canal and annex Greenland, has further alienated allies, with countries like Denmark and the UK reporting sharp declines in their perception of the U.S.

Domestically, the trade war has eroded Trump’s once-strong economic approval. A CNN poll shows only 39% approve of his economic handling, a career low, down 5 points since March. His tariff approval stands at 35%, with 61% disapproving, per the NBC News Stay Tuned poll. Even among Republicans, only 35% believe grocery prices will decrease, highlighting cracks in his base’s confidence.

A Chaotic Governance Style: Executive Orders and Legal Challenges

Trump’s governing style—marked by a record 140 executive orders in 100 days—has fueled perceptions of chaos. These orders, covering everything from immigration crackdowns to renaming the Gulf of Mexico, have faced numerous legal challenges. The Washington Post reports that Trump has had more lawsuits filed against him than any modern president at this stage. Critics, including Trump voter George Mastrodonato, liken his approach to “Yosemite Sam, blasting off with two guns,” noting that many orders are struck down in court for overstepping authority.

The administration’s cost-cutting efforts, led by Elon Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), have also drawn ire. A Pew Research Center survey found 55% disapprove of federal agency cuts, with 51% believing they will make government less efficient. Public opinion of Musk himself has soured, with his favorability dropping to 34%.

What Lies Ahead?

As Trump navigates the fallout from his first 100 days, the question remains: Can he regain public trust? His team insists that tariffs and trade talks will yield long-term benefits, but with 71% of Americans rating economic conditions negatively (Fox News poll), the immediate pain is undeniable. The administration’s focus on culture wars and deflection may rally his base, but it risks alienating moderates and independents further.

Conclusion: A Nation at a Crossroads

Trump’s first 100 days have been extraordinary, but for many, it’s a story of economic disruption and broken promises. While his supporters see a bold leader shaking up a broken system, critics fear a slide toward economic and democratic instability. As the nation grapples with these divides, the next 100 days will be critical in determining whether Trump can pivot or if the “extraordinary destruction” will define his legacy.

Thought-Provoking Questions:

1. Can Trump’s tariff strategy deliver long-term economic gains, or will it deepen the recession fears gripping Americans?

2. How can Trump bridge the gap with independents and moderates to rebuild his approval rating?

3. Is the polarized reaction to Trump’s first 100 days a sign of irreparable division, or can common ground be found?

Photo Credit: CNN.com