Trump’s First Year Back: How Americans See the President’s Actions

The Political Divide and Its Impact on Americans’ Lives

President Donald Trump’s return to the White House marked a pivotal moment in American politics. The first year of his second term was characterized by polarized opinions, with supporters praising his economic policies and critics denouncing his handling of social issues.

Cattle Rancher Sees Economic Good Times

In Kansas, cattle rancher Hal Luthi sees the benefits of high beef prices. “We’re experiencing some really good times right now,” he said. “We’re just thankful because a lot of times when prices get high, consumers cut back, but we haven’t seen much of that.” Luthi attributes his success to Trump’s economic policies, which have driven down interest rates and fuel costs.

Childcare Provider Faces Federal Subsidy Uncertainty

In Chicago, licensed child care provider Jamila Wilson faces a different reality. She provides federally subsidized services for working parents but is worried about potential changes to the program. “I think he’s targeting Black and brown communities,” Wilson said. “It makes us feel like we’re unworthy, that our president is not for us.” The possibility of federal subsidies being halted or paused has injected uncertainty into her business.

Real Estate Market Challenges

The real estate market in suburban Philadelphia faces challenges due to high mortgage rates and political uncertainties. Real estate agent Kristina O’Donnell noted a slight decline in home sales but still managed to purchase a new house herself. “I’m an independent contractor, that’s the real thing about real estate,” she said. O’Donnell is delaying renovations on her dream home due to rising everyday expenses.

Coal Miner Celebrates Policy Pivots

In Colorado, lifelong resident Trula Simmons is optimistic about Trump’s policies, especially regarding coal mining jobs. “I feel like his first term, his hands were tied or he felt like they were tied,” she said. Despite the closure of her husband’s and son’s mine, Simmons sees potential for economic improvement under Trump’s administration.

Gold Jewelry Owner Sees Business Opportunities

In Oklahoma City, Naifeh Fine Jewelry owner George Naifeh is cautiously optimistic about his business prospects. Higher gold prices have made his designs less accessible to some customers, but the Big Beautiful Bill law could bring new opportunities through tax credits for employee training.

Wind Farm Worker’s Fears for Green Energy

Nick Reynolds, an industrial painter working on a wind farm in Rhode Island, faces uncertainty about the fate of green energy projects. “It’s not the kind of thing that makes you want to vote for Republicans,” he said. “He made campaign promises to protect working people, and in my experience, it’s been quite the opposite.” Reynolds hopes the project will be restarted despite Trump’s efforts to halt its construction.

Nurse Struggles with Loan Limits

Candace Smith, a nurse at San Luis Obispo Hospital, is concerned about changes to federal student loan borrowing limits. “It was like, wow, I’m so excited to go back to school and gosh, how is this going to affect me?” she said. The new rules have thrown her plans into turmoil as they limit loans for graduate students in certain fields.

The diverse perspectives from these Americans highlight the far-reaching impacts of Trump’s policies on different sectors of society. While some see economic improvements and policy pivots, others face challenges and uncertainties due to political changes.