Trump Asserts Swift Control in Second Term, Unlike First/ Newslooks/ WASHINGTON/ J. Mansour/ Morning Edition/ Donald Trump is moving swiftly in his second term, asserting strict control unlike his first-term stumbles. Surrounded by loyalists, he’s halting programs, downsizing bureaucracy, and targeting policies from Biden’s era. Critics warn of authoritarian tendencies, while supporters praise his “promises made, promises kept” approach.
Trump’s Second-Term Agenda Quick Looks:
- Trump replaces indecisiveness with decisive control in second term.
- Loyalists fill key roles, streamlining execution of his agenda.
- Consumer protection and humanitarian programs face shutdowns.
- Pardons granted to Capitol rioters, raising controversy.
- Diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives rapidly dismantled.
- Federal agencies pressured to report unauthorized DEI activities.
- Department of Justice undergoes leadership overhaul with loyal allies.
- Critics warn of dangerous overreach; Trump dismisses concerns.
Deep Look:
Donald Trump’s second term marks a dramatic shift from the turmoil and indecision that plagued his first four years in office. Determined to implement his agenda without the hurdles of past internal resistance, Trump has surrounded himself with unwavering loyalists at every level of government, streamlining decision-making and execution.
Swift Action and Unyielding Control
Unlike his earlier term, where aides often softened or ignored his directives, Trump now ensures his orders are followed to the letter. The mantra of his administration, “promises made, promises kept,” underscores this renewed focus on accountability and action. Where previous officials hesitated, current appointees execute promptly, reflecting Trump’s intensified demand for loyalty and efficiency.
One prominent example is the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB). Once a watchdog against financial misconduct, it has been effectively sidelined. Not only were operations halted, but Trump’s team established a tip line encouraging reports on any unauthorized activities by CFPB staff. Similar actions have disrupted the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), halting humanitarian efforts that were once a hallmark of U.S. foreign policy.
Legal Overhauls and Controversies
The Department of Justice (DOJ), a longstanding thorn in Trump’s side during his first term and post-presidency, has been a primary target. Emil Bove, Trump’s former defense attorney, now serves as acting deputy attorney general. Under Bove’s guidance, the DOJ recently dropped corruption charges against New York City Mayor Eric Adams, citing the mayor’s potential role in advancing Trump’s stricter immigration policies. Critics view this as politically motivated interference, prompting several prosecutors to resign in protest.
Additionally, Trump has taken bold actions regarding the Capitol riot on January 6, 2021. On his first day back in office, he issued pardons to approximately 1,500 individuals involved in the attack. His administration has since launched inquiries into the FBI’s handling of the riot investigations, raising concerns about political retribution.
Eliminating DEI and Bureaucratic Downsizing
Trump’s agenda extends beyond law enforcement and foreign aid. Diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives have been swiftly targeted. Through executive orders and internal directives, federal employees are being instructed to eliminate DEI-related activities, with warnings of “adverse consequences” for non-compliance. His administration has made clear that attempts to “disguise” DEI efforts under different terminology will not be tolerated.
Elon Musk, a notable Trump ally, has taken a leading role in downsizing the federal workforce. The partnership signals an aggressive approach to reducing what Trump deems the “deep state”—a term used by his supporters to describe career bureaucrats who they believe obstruct his policies.
Critics Voice Alarm, Supporters Applaud
Trump’s forceful methods have sparked intense debate. Historian Timothy Naftali described the president as “angrier, meaner, and more effective” compared to his first term. Critics like former national security official Olivia Troye argue that Trump’s scorched-earth approach threatens democratic norms. “During the first administration, they didn’t know what they were doing,” Troye said. “Now they do, and that’s the scary part.”
Supporters, however, argue that Trump is simply fulfilling his campaign promises and rectifying the inaction of his initial tenure. To them, his swift moves represent long-overdue government accountability and a decisive break from what they perceive as entrenched bureaucratic resistance.
As Trump’s second term unfolds, the stark contrast from his first administration is undeniable. Whether this newfound control will bring lasting reform or deepen national divisions remains to be seen.
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