Returning to the United States for the first time in four years, I encountered a nation seemingly reluctant to engage in political discourse, despite being engulfed in the whirlwind of Trump’s presidency. The summer of 2025, marked by frenetic political activity, will likely be remembered as a period of historical chaos.
During these months, President Donald J. Trump fully embraced his role as an unpredictable leader. He ordered a swift military strike on Iran’s nuclear facilities, pressured NATO allies to increase defense spending, and imposed higher tariffs on European and Japanese exports. His policies, such as mass deportations in Los Angeles, sparked confrontations with California’s Democratic Governor, Gavin Newsom.
The “One Big Beautiful Bill Act” and Its Ramifications
Amidst these events, Trump celebrated the passage of the “One Big Beautiful Bill Act,” a sweeping tax and spending legislation signed into law on July 4. This act, which offers tax cuts to the wealthy while slashing Medicaid and food assistance programs, is projected to add $3.4 trillion to the US deficit over the next decade, according to the Congressional Budget Office.
Over the next decade, the “One Big Beautiful Bill Act” will add at least $3.4 trillion to the US deficit, according to the Congressional Budget Office.
The act’s economic impact is stark: Americans in the top 20 percent will see their incomes rise by 2.2 percent, while those in the bottom 20 percent will experience a 2.9 percent decline, as analyzed by the Yale Budget Lab. Cuts to Medicaid could result in over 42,500 deaths annually, experts from the University of Pennsylvania and Yale warn.
Foreign Policy and Domestic Discontent
Trump’s foreign policy decisions, such as the military action against Iran, showcased America’s hard power but simultaneously eroded its soft power. In July, over 1,500 State Department staff were laid off, recalling General James Mattis’s warning about the need for diplomacy over military might.
Domestically, the administration’s stringent immigration policies led to the establishment of “Alligator Alcatraz,” a controversial detention center in Florida. Despite criticism from immigration rights groups, Trump endorsed the facility, offering reporters advice on evading alligators.
Economic Indicators and Market Reactions
The inflationary effects of Trump’s trade policies are becoming apparent, with inflation rising to 2.7 percent in June. Despite this, stock markets have reached record highs, seemingly unaffected by Trump’s threats to dismiss Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell.
Inflation rose to 2.7 percent in June, up from 2.4 percent in May, driven by the president’s trade policies.
Political Theater and Public Perception
Throughout my visit, I observed a nation where Trump’s presence loomed large, yet his direct impact on everyday conversations seemed limited. Despite his omnipresence in the media, I encountered few visible signs of support, such as MAGA merchandise, even in traditionally conservative areas.
While Trump’s policies and rhetoric continue to polarize the nation, many Americans appear to be disengaging from the constant political drama. This contrasts with the heightened political activism of his first term, suggesting a shift in public sentiment.
Resistance and Resignation
Despite ongoing protests, such as the “No Kings” and “Good Trouble Lives On” demonstrations, there is a sense of melancholic resignation among some of Trump’s critics. Many Democrats are choosing to wait out his presidency, hoping for a shift in power during the upcoming congressional mid-term elections.
In mid-June, “No Kings” protests were held in 820 different locations, highlighting ongoing resistance to Trump’s policies.
As Trump’s second term progresses, his administration continues to reshape the balance of power in the US government. With a supportive Supreme Court and a loyal Republican base, he has managed to consolidate his influence, despite the controversies surrounding his presidency.
The summer of 2025 has highlighted the complexities of Trump’s leadership and its impact on the United States. As the nation grapples with political division and economic challenges, the president’s actions continue to shape the country’s trajectory, leaving an indelible mark on American history.
