Donald J. Trump has initiated a series of policy changes during the first year of his second term, impacting various aspects of U.S. governance and society. He has reported a decrease in illegal border crossings and has restricted entry for most nonwhite refugees, while also eliminating diversity programs within the government and encouraging similar actions in corporate America.

In international affairs, Trump facilitated a cease-fire in Gaza, threatened to withdraw aid to Ukraine, and authorized military operations against suspected drug smugglers at sea. Additionally, he deployed federal troops to U.S. cities, which has raised concerns about the militarization of domestic law enforcement. His administration has strained relationships with traditional allies and pursued policies that have financially benefited his family and close aides, particularly in the realm of cryptocurrencies.

Trump's economic policies have disrupted the global trading system by increasing import taxes, which he argues will lead to job creation. Concurrently, he has extended tax cuts for corporations and high-income earners from his first term. His administration has also rolled back climate change initiatives from the previous administration, dismantled government agencies without congressional approval, and reduced the federal workforce.

The first year of Trump's second term has been characterized by a polarizing approach to governance, often utilizing emergency powers despite the absence of a national crisis. This approach has drawn comparisons to past presidents who faced significant national emergencies, such as Abraham Lincoln during the Civil War and Franklin D. Roosevelt during the Great Depression. The political landscape in the U.S. continues to shift as administrations respond to the perceived excesses of their predecessors.