American Battleground: Resistance and revenge in 100 days of Trump | CNN Politics

Trump's Second Term: Revenge and Resistance

This CNN Politics article examines the first 100 days of Donald Trump's second presidential term, marked by a campaign of revenge against perceived enemies and a growing wave of public resistance. Trump's actions include stripping security clearances, launching investigations, and targeting various groups, from law firms to universities, for perceived opposition.

Key Actions and Targets

• Security Clearances Revoked: Trump revoked security clearances from numerous former officials, including Mike Pompeo and Anthony Fauci.
• Law Firms Targeted: Several large law firms representing political opponents were targeted, facing restrictions on government business.
• Universities Under Pressure: Trump threatened federal funding for universities that didn't comply with his policies, leading to lawsuits, such as Harvard's legal challenge.
• Media Control: Trump attempted to control access for certain news outlets to the White House, leading to legal battles with organizations like the Associated Press.
• Economic Policies and Fallout: Trump's economic policies, particularly his tariffs, have led to increased inflation and a shift in public opinion, with more voters blaming him for the economic state rather than Joe Biden.
• Signal App Security Breach: A major security breach involving sensitive military information shared on a messaging app by top officials sparked controversy but received minimal repercussions.

The article highlights the widespread fear of retaliation among politicians and the growing polarization of the political climate. While Trump's actions have pleased his core base, his approval rating has plummeted due to economic concerns and increasing public backlash.

Public Reaction and Political Climate

Public protests against Trump are increasing across the country. Both Democrats and some Republicans face angry constituents at town hall meetings, reflecting widespread discontent. Many Republican lawmakers have avoided public appearances to avoid this escalating anger. The article notes that there's a considerable gap between Trump's approval rating among his core base and the broader public, with his approval ratings on economic issues significantly dropping since March.

Conclusion

The article concludes by questioning what will happen next, emphasizing the uncertainty surrounding the long-term effects of Trump's policies and the deep divisions within the American population. The lasting impact of his actions on American society and politics remains to be seen.