Trump Marks One Year of Domestic and Foreign Policy Changes

Over the past year, President Trump’s second administration has pushed sweeping changes at home and abroad, while facing criticism from Democrats and some longtime allies. Domestically, inflation and high costs of living remain pressing challenges, with Americans continuing to face elevated grocery, housing, and energy prices. Trump’s economic agenda has included steep protectionist tariffs aimed at reviving U.S. manufacturing, though critics argue they have disrupted supply chains. Immigration enforcement has been tightened, and Democrats warn of executive overreach.

On the foreign policy front, Trump’s administration approved a record $11-billion arms sale to Taiwan, maintained support for Ukraine while pressing Europe to contribute more, and intensified Middle East diplomacy. He strongly backed Israel’s military campaign in Gaza and reaffirmed a hard-line stance on Hezbollah. At the same time, Trump reopened diplomatic channels with Russia, signaling openness to limited trade normalization if progress is made toward ending the war in Ukraine. As the U.S. approaches the 2026 midterms, Trump continues to emphasize borders, economic nationalism, and deal-driven diplomacy, while critics warn of inflation, allied distrust, and unresolved conflicts.