12 Months of Trump: Wins, Tensions, and Public Mood

One year into his second term, President Donald Trump is pointing to continued job growth and expanded economic activity, with the administration citing deregulation as a driver of growth in energy, manufacturing, and business investment. Immigration enforcement was expanded nationwide, keeping border security a central priority, while the president’s “America First” trade approach relied on tariffs to pressure foreign governments.

Defense spending increased with an emphasis on military strength and deterrence, while foreign policy focused on direct, deal-driven diplomacy with both allies and rivals. The White House says these efforts contributed to global stability, even as President Trump has publicly expressed frustration over not receiving a Nobel Peace Prize. Public opinion remains divided, with many Americans saying the economy still feels expensive, while others credit the administration for enforcement and leadership amid ongoing political tension.