Donald J. Trump, the 45th President of the United States, served from January 20, 2017, to January 20, 2021. A businessman and television personality before entering politics, Trump was the first U.S. president without prior political or military experience. Running as a Republican, he appealed to a base frustrated with establishment politics and economic stagnation, promising to “Make America Great Again.” His presidency was marked by significant economic, foreign policy, and social developments, alongside controversies and deep polarization.
Early Life and Business Career
Donald John Trump was born on June 14, 1946, in Queens, New York City. Raised in a wealthy family, he attended the New York Military Academy before studying economics at the University of Pennsylvania’s Wharton School, graduating in 1968.
Business Career
Trump joined his father’s real estate business, rebranding it as the Trump Organization. Over the decades, he built a global brand through luxury real estate, hotels, casinos, and golf courses. His name became synonymous with opulence and high-profile deals, though his business ventures were not without controversy, including multiple bankruptcies.
Media Presence
Trump gained national fame as the host of The Apprentice, a reality television show that aired from 2004 to 2015. This platform bolstered his public persona as a successful businessman and tough negotiator.
Entry into Politics
Trump announced his candidacy for the presidency in June 2015, running on an “outsider” platform that rejected traditional political norms. His campaign focused on issues like immigration reform, economic nationalism, and “draining the swamp” of Washington insiders.
2016 Election
Trump’s unconventional campaign defeated a crowded field of Republican primary contenders. In the general election, he faced Democratic candidate Hillary Clinton. Despite losing the popular vote, he won the Electoral College with victories in key battleground states, securing the presidency.
Domestic Policies
Trump’s presidency focused heavily on reshaping domestic policies, often with a populist, nationalist agenda.
Economic Policy
Trump’s administration prioritized tax reform, deregulation, and economic growth.
- Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (2017): The centerpiece of his economic agenda, this legislation lowered corporate tax rates and reduced taxes for individuals, aiming to stimulate investment and economic growth.
- Economic Performance: Before the COVID-19 pandemic, the U.S. economy experienced record-low unemployment, strong stock market performance, and GDP growth.
- Trade Policies: Trump renegotiated trade deals, including replacing NAFTA with the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). He also imposed tariffs on Chinese goods, citing unfair trade practices, sparking a trade war.
Immigration Reform
Trump’s immigration policies were among his most contentious.
- Border Wall: He advocated for a physical wall along the U.S.-Mexico border to curb illegal immigration. While Congress provided limited funding, portions of the wall were constructed during his term.
- Travel Ban: In 2017, Trump signed an executive order restricting travel from several predominantly Muslim countries, a policy upheld by the Supreme Court after legal challenges.
- Family Separation Policy: The administration’s “zero-tolerance” policy led to the separation of migrant families at the border, sparking widespread criticism.
Judicial Appointments
One of Trump’s lasting legacies is his influence on the federal judiciary.
- He appointed three Supreme Court justices: Neil Gorsuch, Brett Kavanaugh, and Amy Coney Barrett, solidifying a conservative majority.
- Trump also appointed more than 200 federal judges, shaping the judiciary for decades.
Foreign Policy
Trump’s foreign policy, guided by the principle of “America First,” sought to prioritize U.S. interests over multilateral commitments.
Diplomatic Relationships
Trump challenged traditional alliances and engaged directly with adversaries.
- NATO: He criticized NATO members for not meeting defense spending commitments, pressuring allies to increase contributions.
- North Korea: Trump became the first sitting U.S. president to meet with North Korean leader Kim Jong-un. While their summits drew international attention, negotiations on denuclearization ultimately stalled.
- Middle East: His administration brokered the Abraham Accords, normalizing relations between Israel and several Arab nations.
Withdrawal from Agreements
Trump withdrew the U.S. from several international agreements, arguing they were detrimental to American interests.
- Paris Climate Agreement: He cited concerns over economic impacts on the U.S. while rejecting global climate regulations.
- Iran Nuclear Deal: Trump abandoned the agreement, reinstating sanctions on Iran to pressure it into renegotiating its nuclear program.
- Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP): He withdrew from this trade pact, favoring bilateral agreements.
Social and Cultural Policies
Trump’s presidency coincided with significant cultural shifts and political polarization.
Healthcare
While Trump campaigned on repealing and replacing the Affordable Care Act (ACA), legislative efforts failed. His administration took steps to weaken the ACA, including removing the individual mandate penalty.
Criminal Justice Reform
Trump signed the First Step Act in 2018, a bipartisan effort to reduce sentences for nonviolent offenders and improve rehabilitation programs.
Polarization and Rhetoric
Trump’s communication style, characterized by direct and often combative tweets, energized his supporters but alienated critics. His rhetoric on issues like race and immigration drew accusations of inflaming divisions.
COVID-19 Pandemic
The COVID-19 pandemic defined the final year of Trump’s presidency.
Initial Response
Trump’s administration faced criticism for its handling of the pandemic, including delays in testing and inconsistent messaging.
Economic and Healthcare Measures
- The administration signed the CARES Act, a $2 trillion stimulus package providing direct payments to Americans, expanded unemployment benefits, and support for small businesses.
- Operation Warp Speed accelerated vaccine development, leading to the approval of multiple COVID-19 vaccines by the end of 2020.
Controversies
Trump’s downplaying of the virus and skepticism about mask mandates and public health measures drew sharp criticism from health experts and political opponents.
2020 Election and Aftermath
Trump ran for reelection in 2020 against Democratic candidate Joe Biden. Despite losing both the popular vote and the Electoral College, Trump refused to concede, alleging widespread voter fraud without substantive evidence.
Capitol Riot
On January 6, 2021, a mob of Trump supporters stormed the U.S. Capitol following a rally where Trump urged them to protest the election results. The riot disrupted the certification of Biden’s victory and led to Trump’s second impeachment, making him the only president to be impeached twice.
Legacy
Trump’s presidency left an indelible mark on American politics and society.
Support and Criticism
- Supporters praise Trump for his economic policies, conservative judicial appointments, and focus on American sovereignty.
- Critics argue that his rhetoric and actions exacerbated polarization, undermined democratic norms, and damaged international alliances.
Impact on the Republican Party
Trump reshaped the Republican Party, solidifying its alignment with populist and nationalist ideals. His influence remains strong within the GOP, with many candidates embracing his platform and rhetoric.
Enduring Policy Changes
From tax reform to the judiciary, Trump’s policies will likely have long-term implications for the U.S.
Conclusion
Donald Trump’s presidency was one of the most unconventional and contentious in American history. His approach to governance, marked by disruption of political norms, resonated with millions of Americans seeking change but also deepened national divides. As a businessman-turned-politician, Trump redefined the presidency in ways that will be debated for generations. Whether viewed as a champion of American interests or a polarizing figure, his impact on the country is undeniable.
I do not like to bash any candidates because I do not like giving in to two party system rivalry. We treat politics like its the Sox vs. Yankees. I will say my values and political views do not align with Donald Trump. With our political system of checks and balances it does not worry me that Mr. Trump would become an evil dictator. Many of the things he promises to do he is unable to without congress approval. I do worry that he has no political experience and is unqualified for president. Donald Trump supporters would say that he is innocent to the world of politics. He is no Jimmy Stewart in Mr. Smith Goes to Washington as his supporters would like to paint him. Yes, politics are corrupt and it is one big show they put on for America but Mr. Trump is not above the theatrics. In fact, he is putting on the biggest show of all the candidates. The difference with Mr. Smith’s character is that he came from a humble background and was innocently naive. His character was also taking a place in the US Senate not President of the United States. If Donald Trump is serious about a career in politics then I would like to see him handle a position like mayor, governor or senator before the presidency.
All the idiots that feel Trump is racist or a women hater should look into his backround of helping needy families and workers he employed. He was putting women in charge of construction sites before anyone else as far back as the early 80’s. Look at the class his children are and well read as he made them start out at the bottom in these construction sites. He will build this country, bring back jobs and change the democratic moocher ways of generational welfare that is a burden on us, our children and grandchildren. I wish the liberal moochers would put 20 full time news people on hillary like they are on Trump. Seems to me she has a lot more bad history then he does!
Finally we have a man that knows what he is talking about running for president! I think we should build the wall to keep the immigrants out. I think that we should prevent all the Muslims from coming into the United States. I think that this is man knows a lot a lot about money and will be able to help our country get out of debt. He speaks just like the average american and there is nothing wrong with that. At least he is someone that we can understand and relate to! I am voting for Donald Trump!