Get all your news in one place.
100’s of premium titles.
One app.
Start reading
Top News
Top News
Politics

Trump Asserts Control In Second Term, Implements Controversial Changes

President Donald Trump gestures to supporters gathered for a Presidents Day rally as he leaves the Trump International Golf Club, Monday, Feb. 17, 2025, in West Palm Beach, Fla. (AP Photo/Ben Curtis)

During his second term in office, President Donald Trump is demonstrating a stark departure from his initial approach, showing a determined effort to assert control and enforce his directives across the government.

Unlike his first term, where officials often softened or ignored his more extreme decisions, Trump is now backed by loyalists at all levels of government, ensuring that his orders are carried out with unwavering commitment.

Under the mantra of 'promises made, promises kept,' the White House is emphasizing Trump's resolve to implement his agenda and reshape the government in line with his vision.

One notable shift is the administration's move to withhold congressionally authorized funding from initiatives championed by Trump's predecessor, Joe Biden, signaling a clear break from past policies.

Trump's approach includes a crackdown on federal agencies and institutions that he perceives as obstacles to his goals. This includes efforts to downsize the federal workforce, led by entrepreneur Elon Musk, whom Trump has empowered for this purpose.

Notably, agencies like the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau and the U.S. Agency for International Development have faced significant disruptions, with operations being halted or shut down entirely.

In a bid to consolidate power, Trump has appointed loyalists to key positions, such as the Department of Justice, where actions like dropping corruption charges against public officials have sparked controversy and resignations among prosecutors.

Furthermore, Trump's administration has taken a hardline stance on individuals involved in the Jan. 6 Capitol riot, issuing pardons and investigating FBI employees for potential misconduct related to the event.

Overall, Trump's second term is marked by a more forceful and uncompromising approach, with a focus on dismantling perceived obstacles and reshaping government institutions to align with his agenda.

While supporters view this as a necessary step to fulfill Trump's promises, critics warn of the potential consequences of unchecked executive power and the erosion of established norms within the government.

Sign up to read this article
Read news from 100’s of titles, curated specifically for you.
Already a member? Sign in here
Related Stories
Top stories on inkl right now
One subscription that gives you access to news from hundreds of sites
Already a member? Sign in here
Our Picks
Fourteen days free
Download the app
One app. One membership.
100+ trusted global sources.