10 key takeaways from Donald Trump's first 100 days | Chris Cillizza

Summary

In this video, the speaker reflects on the first 100 days of Donald Trump's second term as president, highlighting key observations and analysis. Trump's low approval ratings, primarily driven by his handling of tariffs and the economy, are discussed. The video also explores his radical expansion of executive power, successes at the border, and challenges faced by both Trump and the Democratic Party. Additionally, the speaker comments on Elon Musk's waning influence and the broader political landscape, urging viewers not to draw conclusions based on just the first 100 days of Trump's presidency.

Takeaways

• 😀 Donald Trump has the lowest polling approval of any modern U.S. president after the first 100 days, with 43% approval and 53% disapproval.
• 😀 Trump's low approval ratings are largely due to his handling of tariffs and the economy, with many believing his policies have worsened economic conditions.
• 😀 Trump is attempting a radical expansion of executive power, signing 137 executive orders in his first 100 days, the most ever in this timeframe.
• 😀 Trump's border policies have been a success, significantly reducing border crossings, which is considered his greatest achievement in the first 100 days.
• 😀 The establishment, including tech companies, law firms, and the media, has largely capitulated to Trump, with many entities compromising to avoid his wrath.
• 😀 The Democratic Party is struggling, with low favorability ratings and a lack of strong leadership, leaving the party in a chaotic and leaderless state.
• 😀 Elon Musk, initially a key figure in Trump's first 100 days, is now fading from the spotlight due to his dwindling influence and issues with Tesla.
• 😀 The most significant scandal of Trump's first 100 days was the accidental inclusion of a journalist in a sensitive text chain about a military strike, which was poorly handled.
• 😀 The most powerful individuals in Trump's orbit include Steven Miller, Russ Vote, Scott Bessant, and Susie Wilds, who influence his policies and decisions.
• 😀 With 1,361 days left in Trump's presidency, it's important to avoid drawing conclusions from just the first 100 days, as there's much more to come.

Q & A

What is Donald Trump's approval rating after his first 100 days in his second term?

Donald Trump's approval rating after his first 100 days in his second term is 43%, while his disapproval rating stands at 53%. This makes him one of the lowest polling presidents in modern history after 100 days, similar to his first term in 2017.

Why has Trump's approval rating dropped significantly after his first 100 days?

Trump's approval rating has primarily dropped due to his handling of tariffs and the economy. His economic policies, particularly tariffs on China, Mexico, and Canada, have led to a decline in economic confidence, with many Americans feeling the economy has worsened during his presidency.

How have Trump's tariffs affected the economy?

Trump's tariffs, especially those targeting China and other countries, have caused stock market declines and a reduction in economic confidence. Polling shows that a significant portion of the population believes the economy has worsened due to these policies, with concerns about inflation and a potential recession.

What is Trump's approach to expanding executive power?

Trump has made an aggressive attempt to expand executive power, signing 137 executive orders in his first 100 days— the most ever for any president in this period. This is contrasted with only five bills signed into law. His actions include diminishing independent agencies and boards and asserting control over the economy through tariffs.

What is considered Trump's greatest success during his first 100 days?

Trump's greatest success in his first 100 days is his handling of the border. Border crossings are at historically low levels, which is seen as a result of Trump's tough immigration policies and the hard stance he has taken on border security.

How have major institutions responded to Trump’s presidency?

Many institutions, including major tech companies and law firms, have capitulated to Trump. They have provided financial support to his inauguration and offered pro bono work to avoid conflict. The media has also made moves to appease Trump, with settlements in legal cases that have been widely criticized as frivolous.

What is the state of the Democratic Party during Trump's second term?

The Democratic Party is in a state of disarray, with polling showing low favorability ratings. Key terms associated with the party are 'weak' and 'woke,' which many strategists believe hinder the party’s ability to win elections. The party also lacks a strong leader, contributing to a sense of chaos within its ranks.

What role has Elon Musk played during Trump's first 100 days?

Elon Musk initially played a central role in Trump’s administration, even participating in meetings and being seen as a major figure in the government's efforts to increase efficiency. However, his influence has waned in the second half of Trump's first 100 days, and it’s speculated that Musk will play a much smaller role going forward.

What was the 'Signalgate' controversy during Trump's first 100 days?

'Signalgate' was a major blunder involving the accidental addition of a journalist to a military strike planning group text. The incident, which concerned a strike against the Houthis in Yemen, was mishandled, with Trump’s administration initially denying the issue despite clear evidence. It is expected to be a significant scandal in the history of Trump's second term.

Who are the most powerful people in Trump's orbit after his first 100 days?

The most powerful figures in Trump's inner circle after his first 100 days include Steven Miller (head of domestic policy), Russ Vote (head of the Office of Management and Budget), Scott Bessant (Secretary of the Treasury), and Susie Wilds (White House Chief of Staff). These individuals are seen as having a significant influence on Trump’s domestic and economic policies.