Trump Faces Failing Grades After 100 Days in Office

Apr. 29, 2025, 9:55 am ET

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  • Nearly half of Americans gave President Trump an F on his first 100 days in his second term.
  • President Trump’s economic approval ratings have dropped significantly since his first term.
  • Detained student Mohsen Madhawi speaks out about his experience under President Trump’s immigration policies.

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Quick Brief

2-Minute Digest

Essential Context

As President Trump marks his first 100 days in his second term, public opinion is divided. A significant portion of Americans, including 80% of Democrats and 49% of independents, have given him an F grade. This dissatisfaction is largely driven by his handling of the economy and immigration policies.

Core Players

  • Donald Trump – 47th President of the United States
  • Mohsen Madhawi – Detained student speaking out against President Trump’s immigration policies
  • Republican Party – Holds legislative majority in the House and Senate

Key Numbers

  • 45% – Americans who gave President Trump an F grade for his first 100 days
  • 39% – Approval rating for President Trump’s handling of the economy
  • 139 – Executive orders signed by President Trump in his first 100 days
  • 64% – Americans who believe grocery prices will rise in the next six months

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The Catalyst

President Trump’s return to office has been marked by significant policy initiatives and public backlash. His extensive use of executive orders, including 139 signed in the first 100 days, has drawn mixed reactions.

“The next month or so will reveal how Americans overall react to President Trump’s policies,” said a polling expert, highlighting the ongoing scrutiny of his administration.

Inside Forces

President Trump’s economic policies have been a major point of contention. Despite promises to improve financial prospects, many key essentials have not seen price reductions. Only 39% of Americans approve of his economic handling, a 10-point drop from his first term.

The Republican Party’s legislative majority has supported many of President Trump’s initiatives, but internal dynamics within the party and external legal challenges have complicated the implementation of these policies.

Power Dynamics

President Trump’s relationship with different political groups remains contentious. Democrats overwhelmingly disapprove of his performance, while his base is more divided on issues like economic policy and immigration.

The administration’s focus on immigration reform and deportations has led to widespread criticism, particularly from international students facing deportation over minor infractions.

Outside Impact

The broader implications of President Trump’s policies are far-reaching. The economy remains a concern, with 64% of Americans expecting grocery prices to rise in the next six months. International students, like Mohsen Madhawi, are speaking out against the harsh immigration policies that have led to detentions and deportations.

Madhawi’s story highlights the human impact of these policies, adding a personal dimension to the ongoing debate.

Future Forces

Looking ahead, the next few months will be crucial in determining the long-term success of President Trump’s administration. Key areas to watch include:

  • Economic policy adjustments to address rising prices and public dissatisfaction
  • Legal challenges to executive orders and other legislative actions
  • Continued immigration reform and its impact on international students and communities

Data Points

  • January 20, 2025: President Trump’s inauguration marks the beginning of his second term
  • April 29, 2025: End of President Trump’s first 100 days in his second term
  • 80%: Democrats who gave President Trump an F grade for his first 100 days
  • 35%: Republicans who believe prices will increase in the next six months

As President Trump’s administration navigates the complexities of its second term, public opinion and policy outcomes will continue to shape the political landscape. The coming months will be pivotal in determining the success and impact of President Trump’s policies.