Trump’s first week – Shock, awe, and political firestorms
By: Dr. Avi Verma
Donald Trump has returned to the White House with a vengeance, unleashing a relentless wave of executive actions that have upended Washington, stunned world leaders, and reignited fierce political battles. In just one week, his administration has revived hardline immigration policies, frozen and unfrozen federal grants, reopened negotiations on U.S. strategic interests in Canada, Greenland, and Panama, and even proposed an early retirement buyout for federal employees. His approach—decisive, chaotic, and unapologetically aggressive—has drawn sharp reactions from both sides of the aisle.
A blitz of executive orders and policy reversals
Trump’s strategy appears clear: overwhelm the system before the opposition can mobilize. His administration has restarted large-scale deportation efforts, with ICE conducting pre-dawn raids in major cities, particularly targeting sanctuary jurisdictions. Meanwhile, his renewed interest in U.S. influence over Greenland and the Panama Canal signals a return to Trump’s nationalist-driven foreign policy, one that prioritizes American control over key geopolitical assets.
Perhaps the most unpredictable move came when Trump abruptly froze multiple federal grants, citing concerns over funding for “politically driven” programs. However, after intense backlash from governors—including some Republican leaders—his administration quietly reversed course on several freezes, allowing certain projects to move forward. Simultaneously, his early retirement proposal for federal employees has raised concerns about a potential bureaucratic “brain drain,” with career civil servants fearing a purge of experienced government officials.
Reactions from both parties
Republicans: A divided celebration
House Speaker Mike Johnson praised Trump’s rapid action, stating, “President Trump is wasting no time delivering on his promises to restore order, secure our borders, and put America First.” Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell, however, offered a more measured response, acknowledging Trump’s victories while cautioning that “executive orders alone cannot replace long-term legislative solutions.”
Among Republican governors, there is unease about the freezing of federal grants, with some worried about its impact on their state budgets. However, GOP hardliners, particularly those aligned with the MAGA wing, have cheered the immigration crackdown, viewing it as a long-overdue return to law and order.
Democrats: Outrage and legal challenges
Democrats, meanwhile, have declared war on Trump’s agenda. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer condemned Trump’s first week as “an authoritarian-style power grab that threatens our democracy.” House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries accused Trump of using “bully tactics and fear-mongering” to push an agenda that undermines American values.
Former President Joe Biden, breaking his post-presidency silence, warned that Trump’s return marks “a dark chapter for our nation, where extremism replaces governance.” Several Democratic-led states have already filed lawsuits challenging key aspects of Trump’s immigration orders, particularly the resumption of mass deportation raids.
What about the economy?
While Trump has taken sweeping action in other areas, his economic agenda remains unclear. Wall Street has responded with cautious optimism, but business leaders are still awaiting clarity on tax policies, trade regulations, and federal spending priorities. The Federal Reserve has signaled its independence, but whether Trump will pressure the institution remains to be seen.
A defining start – But what comes next?
Trump’s first week back in office has been nothing short of a political earthquake. His allies see a leader taking charge, undoing what they perceive as the failures of the Biden administration. His critics warn of an unchecked executive branch that could erode democratic norms. One thing is certain: if this week is any indication, the next four years will be just as unpredictable—perhaps even more so—than his first term.
