President Donald Trump’s return to office was marked by significant action and strong reactions, continuing the polarizing approach he exhibited on the campaign trail. Officially sworn in as the 47th president of the United States on Monday, Trump immediately signed hundreds of executive actions, many reversing policies enacted by his predecessor, President Joe Biden. His first week in office reflected his promises from the campaign, triggering both praise and concern among Americans across the political spectrum.
Inauguration Day: A Spectacle for All
The inauguration, despite challenges posed by unpredictable weather, quickly became a spectacle. While not everyone tuned in closely, nearly all had opinions on the day’s events. Some found the atmosphere strikingly similar to professional wrestling.
Kyle Plessa, 39, an independent who voted for Trump, compared the inauguration to a wrestling match, noting, “It felt like WWE, with all the boisterousness and showmanship.” In contrast, Greg Bruno, 67, a Trump supporter, applauded his symbolic gesture of throwing pens into the crowd, calling it “a show of who he really works for.”
Meanwhile, critics like Richard Weil, 74, an independent voter for Kamala Harris, described the speech as “bitter” and lacking a positive tone about America. Angela Ramos, 37, another independent Harris supporter, found Trump’s speech “disingenuous,” pointing out a disconnect between his words and actions.
Supporters Celebrate Promises Fulfilled
Trump’s supporters were enthusiastic about his swift action in office. Within days, he signed numerous executive orders addressing everything from immigration to the economy.
Larry Kees, 47, a Trump voter, expressed satisfaction with the executive actions, saying, “There were so many, I couldn’t keep track. He’s not like regular politicians who say one thing and do another.” Tony Flecklin, 69, agreed, emphasizing that Trump’s stance on issues like border protection and energy policy aligned with his expectations.
For Greg Bruno, Trump’s actions were a direct response to campaign promises, confirming why he was elected: “These orders tackle issues the American public wants addressed.”
Opposition Voices Concerns
On the other hand, Trump’s critics voiced concern about his actions, particularly his stance on climate change, health, and pardons for those involved in the January 6 Capitol riots.
Carlyn Jorgensen, 40, who voted for Harris, expressed unease about the presence of CEOs like Elon Musk and Jeff Bezos at the inauguration, questioning whether the U.S. was heading toward an “oligarchy.” Angela Ramos voiced alarm over the president’s decision to withdraw from the Paris Climate Accords and the World Health Organization, viewing it as harmful not only to the U.S. but also to the global community.
David Lieck, 58, a Democrat who also supported Harris, criticized Trump’s pardons, calling them “vindictive” and misaligned with national values.
A Changed President?
Both supporters and critics noted a shift in Trump’s approach as he entered his second term.
Greg Bruno observed, “He’s not under attack this time. He’s coming in as a highly experienced president, more in control.” But others, like Shantonu Mazumdar, 58, a Democrat, noted that Trump seemed “harder” and “more emboldened,” perhaps due to the support of his base.
Richard Weil, an independent voter, lamented the president’s more aggressive tone, calling him “angrier” and “bitter,” while Republican Tony Flecklin appreciated Trump’s follow-through, even if it came with a tough approach.
As Trump moves forward with his second term, his presidency remains as divisive as ever, with strong reactions from both sides of the political aisle.
