Donald Trump-U.S. President-elect (from The AP)

Donald John Trump is an American politician, businessman, and media personality who served as the 45th president of the United States from 2017 to 2021. Born on June 14, 1946, he is set to begin his second term on January 20, 2025, after winning the 2024 election as the Republican nominee. Trump holds a bachelor’s degree in economics from the University of Pennsylvania, which he completed in 1968. He became president of the Trump Organization, the family real estate business, in 1971.

Trump’s presidency was marked by controversial policies, including a travel ban on Muslim-majority countries, a border wall initiative, and the separation of migrant families at the U.S.-Mexico border. His administration rolled back numerous environmental regulations and passed significant tax reforms. Trump appointed three justices to the U.S. Supreme Court and pursued a contentious trade war with China. His management of the COVID-19 pandemic faced significant criticism for its perceived inadequacy.

In 2019 and 2021, Trump became the first president in U.S. history to be impeached twice. The first impeachment stemmed from charges of abuse of power and obstruction of Congress, and the second was for inciting the January 6 insurrection at the U.S. Capitol. He was acquitted by the Senate both times.

Throughout his presidency and beyond, Trump faced accusations of racism, misogyny, and promoting conspiracy theories. He lost the 2020 election but falsely claimed widespread electoral fraud, which culminated in the Capitol riot. In 2024, Trump was convicted of falsifying business records, making him the first former president to face a felony conviction. He also faced multiple other felony charges related to the mishandling of classified documents and efforts to interfere with the 2020 election. Despite these controversies, Trump maintains a strong political base.

Early and Personal Life: Donald Trump

Donald Trump was born on June 14, 1946, at Jamaica Hospital in Queens, New York City, as the fourth child of Fred Trump and Mary Anne MacLeod Trump. His family had German and Scottish roots, which reflected the cultural background Trump grew up in. Growing up in the Jamaica Estates neighborhood of Queens, he had three older siblings—Maryanne, Fred Jr., and Elizabeth—and a younger brother, Robert. His family was influential, with his father being a prominent real estate developer in New York. These early years laid the foundation for Trump’s future involvement in real estate and business.

Education and Family: Donald Trump

Trump’s education journey began at the private Kew-Forest School, where he attended until seventh grade. From eighth to twelfth grade, he attended the New York Military Academy, a private boarding school. The military academy was significant in shaping his personality, instilling a sense of discipline, and providing a more structured environment. In 1964, Trump enrolled at Fordham University but transferred to the prestigious Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania after two years. He graduated in 1968 with a Bachelor of Science degree in economics, which set him up for a career in business and real estate.

Trump’s academic background was often subject to scrutiny. In 2015, he threatened legal action against his high school, colleges, and the College Board to prevent the release of his academic records, further fuelling curiosity about his academic performance.

Religion: Donald Trump

Trump’s religious journey reflects his evolving spiritual identity. As a child, he attended Sunday school and was confirmed at the First Presbyterian Church in Jamaica, Queens, in 1959. During the 1970s, his parents joined Marble Collegiate Church, part of the Reformed Church in America. Trump identified as a Presbyterian, attending Marble Collegiate Church but was not particularly active there. By 2019, he appointed Paula White, a televangelist, as his personal pastor and emphasized a more nondenominational Christian identity in 2020.

Health Habits: Donald Trump

Trump’s health habits have often drawn attention due to his unconventional lifestyle. He claims to have never consumed alcohol, smoked cigarettes, or used drugs. This stance contrasts with many public figures in politics and entertainment. Trump sleeps only about four to five hours per night. He has frequently mentioned this in interviews. Trump cites golf as his “primary form of exercise.” However, he does not walk the course and prefers to use a cart. He holds a unique perspective on exercise. He considers it a “waste of energy” because he believes the body has a finite amount of energy. In 2015, his physician issued a letter declaring him the “healthiest individual ever elected to the presidency.” However, it was later revealed that Trump had dictated the contents of this letter himself.

Wealth: Donald Trump

Trump’s wealth has been a subject of public interest and scrutiny throughout his career. In 1982, he first appeared on the Forbes list of wealthy individuals, noting his share in his family’s estimated $200 million fortune. Despite several financial setbacks, including losses in the 1980s, Trump regained his position on the Forbes list by 1995. Trump often cites his career as beginning with “a small loan of a million dollars” from his father. However, reports suggest he received much more financial assistance from his father. This included at least $60 million in loans and other financial aid.

His wealth has been complicated by business losses, tax-related investigations, and public controversies. In 2018, Trump faced accusations of tax fraud. Reports revealed he had significantly undervalued his properties and underpaid taxes. This was further compounded by revelations in 2020. His tax returns showed he paid little to no income tax in many years. He relied on tax credits for business losses.

Racial Views: Donald Trump

Trump’s racial views and remarks have sparked controversy. Critics often accuse him of making racist statements and actions. In the 1970s, he settled a lawsuit for housing discrimination against black renters. In the 1989 Central Park jogger case, Trump insisted on the guilt of black and Latino teenagers. This was despite their exoneration by DNA evidence.

Trump promoted the “birther” conspiracy theory, claiming Barack Obama was not born in the U.S. His 2016 campaign made “explicitly racist appeals” by targeting Mexican immigrants. He portrayed them as criminals. Trump’s response to the 2017 Unite the Right rally in Charlottesville also drew backlash. He said there were “very fine people on both sides.” Many condemned this as equating white supremacists with counter-protesters.

Trump’s remarks on immigration also drew criticism. He referred to some African and Latin American countries as “shithole countries.” In 2019, he told four congresswomen of color to “go back” to their countries. These comments were seen as racially charged and divisive.

Misogyny and Allegations of Sexual Misconduct

Trump’s history with women has been controversial, marked by a pattern of misogynistic remarks and sexual misconduct allegations. Over 26 women have accused him of inappropriate behavior, ranging from unwanted advances to sexual assault. Trump has denied all allegations, and his supporters have often dismissed the claims as politically motivated.

One of the most significant events during his 2016 campaign was the revelation of a “hot mic” recording from 2005, in which Trump bragged about groping women and kissing them without their consent. The incident led to public outrage, and Trump later issued a public apology. Despite the backlash, the comments did not significantly hurt his candidacy, and he went on to win the presidency.

In sum, Donald Trump’s early life, personal habits, views on wealth, race, and women have shaped his public persona and political career. Each of these aspects has been a source of both support and controversy, with his statements and actions frequently polarizing the public.

Business Career of Donald Trump: Donald Trump

Donald Trump’s business career, which began in the 1960s, is marked by notable successes, high-profile ventures, and numerous financial controversies. His real estate empire, diverse investments, and business practices have shaped his public persona, but his career has also been deeply entwined with legal disputes, bankruptcies, and questionable ventures.

Early Career and Real Estate Ventures: Donald Trump

Trump’s business career started in 1968 when he joined his father’s real estate company, Trump Management, which owned racially segregated rental properties in New York City’s outer boroughs. By 1971, Trump became president of the company and expanded its brand, establishing the Trump Organization. Trump’s rise in the real estate world was marked by ambitious projects, but his ventures were not always financially successful.

In the 1970s and 1980s, Trump garnered significant attention with his high-profile Manhattan developments. One of the most notable early successes was the renovation of the Commodore Hotel in 1978, later rebranded as the Grand Hyatt Hotel, which helped solidify Trump’s image as a savvy real estate developer. Trump continued to develop major projects, including the Trump Tower in Midtown Manhattan, which became his primary residence and headquarters.

However, despite these successes, Trump faced financial challenges, particularly in the early 1990s. He filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection for several of his properties, including the Plaza Hotel in Manhattan and his Atlantic City casinos, which were heavily over-leveraged and underperformed. Trump used bankruptcy filings to restructure debt, giving up portions of ownership in exchange for continued control of his businesses.

Atlantic City Casinos and Bankruptcy Filings

Trump’s Atlantic City ventures were a key part of his business portfolio.In the 1980s and 1990s, Trump acquired several casino properties. These included the Trump Plaza, Trump Castle, and Trump Taj Mahal. Despite initial hype, these properties struggled financially. Trump financed the Taj Mahal with $675 million in junk bonds. He filed for bankruptcy in 1991 due to massive debt.

Trump’s casino businesses faced multiple bankruptcies. In 1995, he created Trump Hotels & Casino Resorts. This also went bankrupt in 2004 and 2009. These financial setbacks hurt Trump’s reputation. However, he continued to operate these businesses through restructuring agreements.

These agreements often left Trump with a reduced stake. Still, they allowed him to maintain control over the Trump brand. His Atlantic City ventures showed his business approach. He took risks, leveraged debt, and used bankruptcy laws to shield his assets.

Real Estate Expansion and International Ventures

Trump’s real estate expansion continued into the 1990s and 2000s, including the acquisition of the Trump Tower in Chicago and the renovation of 40 Wall Street in Manhattan. His ventures were not limited to the U.S.; Trump also sought international opportunities, such as his dealings in Russia. These developments helped reinforce his global brand, though his later years in real estate were marked by continued financial struggles, including losses from overbuilt projects and costly overruns.

One of his last major developments was the Trump International Hotel and Tower in Chicago, completed in 2008. This $1 billion project faced difficulties, including tax investigations related to cost overruns and unrealized sales. Despite these issues, Trump continued to brand properties with his name, including a range of luxury real estate projects worldwide.

Side Ventures and Licensing Deals: Donald Trump

Beyond real estate, Trump explored a variety of side ventures. These included licensing his name to a wide array of consumer products such as food, apparel, and home furnishings. His name became a global brand, and his licensing deals generated millions of dollars in revenue. However, by 2018, the number of licensing agreements had dwindled, with only a few remaining active.

Trump’s entrepreneurial spirit also extended to sports, particularly through his ownership of the New Jersey Generals, a team in the United States Football League. His attempt to force a merger with the NFL through an antitrust lawsuit ultimately led to the league’s demise. He also owned the Trump Shuttle airline and several other business ventures, many of which ended in financial difficulties or bankruptcy.

Trump University and Legal Issues

In 2004, Trump co-founded Trump University, a for-profit education business that offered real estate courses. The company was later embroiled in legal troubles, with New York state authorities filing a $40 million lawsuit for fraud. In 2016, Trump settled the case for $25 million, though the controversy around Trump University tarnished his reputation in the business world.

Trump also faced legal issues with his charitable foundation, the Donald J. Trump Foundation. The foundation was accused of misusing funds and engaging in self-dealing. In 2018, the New York attorney general filed a lawsuit against the foundation, and in 2019, Trump was ordered to pay $2 million for misappropriating its funds.

Legal and Financial Challenges: Donald Trump

Throughout his business career, Trump faced numerous legal battles and financial difficulties. In the 1970s, he hired lawyer Roy Cohn, who helped him fight a government lawsuit over discriminatory rental practices. Over the years, Trump and his businesses were involved in over 4,000 legal actions, ranging from contract disputes to bankruptcies. Trump’s over-leveraged casino businesses filed for bankruptcy multiple times, and his relationships with major banks deteriorated after his early 1990s financial struggles. Notably, Deutsche Bank was one of the few institutions that continued to lend to Trump.

Despite these challenges, Trump never personally filed for bankruptcy. Instead, his companies used Chapter 11 to restructure debt and protect his personal wealth. His legal troubles and business practices have been a subject of controversy, both during his business career and later, when he transitioned to politics.

Media Career: Donald Trump

Donald Trump’s media career is marked by multiple ventures in publishing, television, and radio. He has authored 19 books. Some were ghostwritten. His most famous book is The Art of the Deal (1987). Tony Schwartz wrote it, but Trump was credited. This book helped elevate Trump’s status as a wealthy businessman. It shaped his public persona as a successful tycoon.

Trump also made cameo appearances in films and TV shows. These appearances helped solidify his celebrity status. He reached a broader audience this way. Additionally, Trump appeared frequently on the Howard Stern Show. He was a guest about 24 times from the 1990s onward. He even had his own short-lived talk radio program called Trumped! from 2004 to 2008. From 2011 to 2015, he was a guest commentator on Fox & Friends, which gave him further exposure to conservative-leaning audiences.

One of the most notable aspects of Trump’s media career was his role as the host and co-producer of the reality TV shows The Apprentice and The Celebrity Apprentice from 2004 to 2015. The shows featured contestants competing in various business challenges, with Trump serving as the boss who delivered the iconic “You’re fired!” catchphrase. These shows played a significant role in rebranding Trump as a highly successful businessman and a tough, no-nonsense boss. The shows were financially successful, earning Trump over $400 million through licensing agreements and appearances.

However, Trump’s relationship with the entertainment industry changed in 2021 when he resigned from the Screen Actors Guild–American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (SAG-AFTRA) to avoid a disciplinary hearing following the January 6 Capitol riot. Two days later, the union permanently barred him.

Political Career: Donald Trump

Donald Trump’s political career spans decades, marked by several shifts in party affiliation. He first registered as a Republican in 1987. His political ideology was fluid. He switched parties multiple times over the years. He briefly joined the Independence Party in 1999. Then, he returned to the Republican Party in 2009. In 2011, he became unaffiliated. Later, he rejoined the Republican Party in 2012.

In 1987, Trump took out full-page newspaper ads. These ads called for changes to U.S. foreign policy. They also called for the elimination of the federal budget deficit. This move hinted at his growing interest in politics. He even considered running for vice president on the 1988 Republican ticket but was dismissed by George H.W. Bush as an “unbelievable” candidate.

Presidential Ambitions (2000–2011): Donald Trump

Trump’s presidential ambitions first became public in 2000 when he ran in the Reform Party’s presidential primaries. His campaign was short-lived, lasting only three months, before he withdrew. Despite this setback, Trump continued to flirt with the idea of running for president, especially in 2011 when he began speculating about a 2012 challenge to President Barack Obama. His appearance at the Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC) and speeches in early primary states generated media buzz, but in May 2011, he ultimately decided not to run. At this time, Trump’s presidential aspirations were not taken seriously by political analysts.

2016 Presidential Campaign: Donald Trump

Trump officially launched his 2016 presidential campaign in June 2015. Initially, many dismissed him as a novelty candidate. However, he quickly rose to the top of the Republican field. His media presence and provocative statements played a key role. He used what he called “truthful hyperbole.” This term, coined by his ghostwriter Tony Schwartz, described his exaggerated speaking style. His inflammatory rhetoric resonated with many voters. His promises to restore American greatness helped him gain support. By March 2016, he became the front-runner in the Republican primaries. Despite his controversial remarks, he was eventually declared the presumptive Republican nominee in May 2016.

Trump’s rhetoric throughout the campaign was heavily focused on themes of nationalism, protectionism, and populism. He advocated for tougher immigration laws, renegotiating international trade agreements, and increasing military spending. His most infamous promise was to build a wall along the U.S.-Mexico border, which became a central part of his campaign platform.

In the 2016 general election, Trump faced off against former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, who led in the national polls but saw her lead diminish as the campaign progressed. Despite Clinton’s consistent advantage in the polls, Trump won the election, securing 306 electoral votes to Clinton’s 227. However, he lost the popular vote by nearly 3 million votes. His victory was seen as a political upset, marking the return of unified Republican control of the White House and Congress.

Campaign Rhetoric and Political Positions: Donald Trump

Trump’s political positions were often described as right-wing populist, and his rhetoric was characterized as bold, unpredictable, and at times contradictory. He focused on themes such as national security, job creation, and economic protectionism. His campaign rhetoric appealed to many working-class voters, particularly in Rust Belt states like Michigan, Pennsylvania, and Wisconsin, which had long been Democratic strongholds but flipped to Trump in 2016.

Trump’s foreign policy positions were marked by skepticism of international institutions like NATO and the United Nations. He described NATO as “obsolete” and advocated for a more isolationist foreign policy. Domestically, his positions varied widely, but he frequently emphasized issues like tax cuts, deregulation, and reducing government spending. He also sought to appeal to religious conservatives and Christian nationalists, while his campaign was often associated with the alt-right movement due to his hiring of Steve Bannon, the former executive of Breitbart News.

Financial Disclosures: Donald Trump

Throughout his campaign and presidency, Trump’s financial disclosures became a point of contention. His official reports listed assets valued above $1.4 billion and debts exceeding $300 million. Trump was known for his refusal to release his tax returns, citing an ongoing audit. His financial dealings came under scrutiny during the campaign, especially after portions of his 1995 tax filings were leaked to the New York Times, revealing a nearly $1 billion loss that allowed him to avoid paying federal taxes for many years.

Election to the Presidency: Donald Trump

Trump’s victory in the 2016 election was a political shock. Despite trailing in the national polls, Trump won key battleground states. He took Michigan, Pennsylvania, and Wisconsin, which were reliable Democratic territories. Trump secured his electoral win by claiming 30 states. His victory restored Republican control over the presidency and Congress.

Trump’s election sparked widespread protests across the U.S. The Women’s March on January 21, 2017, became one of the largest single-day protests in U.S. history. While Trump celebrated his win, liberal and progressive groups resisted. They saw his victory as a setback for women’s rights, immigration, and social justice.

2020 Presidential Campaign: Donald Trump

Trump’s 2020 campaign focused on crime and immigration. His rhetoric fueled intense partisan divisions. Throughout the election, he made unsubstantiated claims about voter fraud. He especially targeted mail-in voting. Trump refused to commit to a peaceful transition of power if he lost.

Despite his “rigged election” claims, Joe Biden won. Biden received 81.3 million votes (51.3 percent), while Trump got 74.2 million (46.8 percent). Trump did not concede immediately. He tried to overturn the results through legal challenges. Judges, including those he appointed, rejected his cases. His false claims about the election still fuel election denial.

First presidency (2017–2021)

Early Actions (2017-2021)

Donald Trump took office on January 20, 2017. He began his first term as President of the United States. In his first week, Trump signed several executive orders. These orders focused on repealing existing policies. He moved to repeal Obamacare. Trump also initiated withdrawal from the Trans-Pacific Partnership negotiations. He reinstated the Mexico City Policy, blocking U.S. foreign aid for abortion-related activities. Trump advanced major infrastructure projects, including the Keystone XL and Dakota Access pipelines. He took steps to reinforce border security. He also planned a border wall with Mexico.

Conflicts of Interest

Even before taking office, Trump placed his business interests into a revocable trust, a move meant to address potential conflicts of interest. However, concerns arose as he continued to profit from his businesses while knowing how governmental actions affected his companies. While Trump promised not to enter new foreign deals, his organization pursued expansions in places like Scotland, Dubai, and the Dominican Republic. Legal challenges were raised against him, particularly regarding violations of the U.S. Constitution’s Domestic and Foreign Emoluments Clauses, though most cases were dismissed over time.

Domestic Policy

Economic Policy: Donald Trump

Trump assumed the presidency during a period of unprecedented economic growth. However, his administration’s economic policies had mixed results. In December 2017, Trump signed the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, which was designed to reduce tax rates for businesses and individuals. However, the tax cuts for individuals were temporary, and critics argued that the plan would lead to increased government deficits. Indeed, by the end of Trump’s term, the U.S. national debt had risen significantly, and the budget deficit had also increased. Despite promises of infrastructure spending, his administration did not deliver the $1 trillion plan he had campaigned on. The workforce also shrank by 3 million people under his tenure, marking a rare decrease in the size of the federal workforce.

Climate and Environmental Policy: Donald Trump

Trump’s administration made significant shifts in environmental policies. He rejected the consensus on climate change. He withdrew from the Paris Agreement. His focus was on bolstering the fossil fuel industry. Natural gas received particular attention. He rolled back over 100 environmental regulations. These included those targeting greenhouse gas emissions. The administration also opened up drilling in previously protected areas like the Arctic Refuge, leading to widespread criticism from environmentalists.

Deregulation: Donald Trump

Trump championed deregulation, signing an executive order that called for the elimination of two existing regulations for every new one introduced. This deregulation effort extended to several sectors, including health, labor, and the environment. One of the notable moves was making it easier for people with severe mental illnesses to buy guns. Although many of his regulatory changes were blocked by courts, the administration managed to scale back regulations across various sectors, often following lobbying from industry groups.

Healthcare: Donald Trump

Trump campaigned on repealing and replacing Obamacare, but his administration took a more indirect approach. Executive orders aimed to undermine Obamacare’s implementation, and the administration attempted to eliminate the individual mandate penalty. Despite these efforts, the Supreme Court ruled against a case challenging the law. Trump’s handling of the opioid epidemic also drew mixed reviews, with some legislation increasing funding for drug treatment, but the lack of a concrete strategy led to rising overdose deaths.

Social Issues: Donald Trump

Trump’s stance on social issues was often controversial. He sought to limit federal funds for organizations offering abortions, while also attempting to reverse protections for LGBTQ workers. His administration rolled back workplace protections and sought to exclude transgender individuals from receiving healthcare protections. Trump also expressed opposition to gun control, though he shifted his position after mass shootings, and withdrew Obama-era marijuana policies, opposing the legalization of marijuana in states that had chosen to do so.

Immigration: Donald Trump

Trump’s immigration policies were among the most contentious of his presidency. A key promise of his campaign was to build a wall along the U.S.-Mexico border to curb illegal immigration. Upon taking office, his administration adopted a “zero tolerance” policy. This led to the separation of thousands of migrant children from their families. His administration also imposed a travel ban on individuals from several predominantly Muslim countries. The ban sparked protests and legal challenges. However, it ultimately became law after adjustments.

Family Separation at the Border: Donald Trump

One of the most controversial aspects of Trump’s immigration policy was the separation of migrant families. The “zero tolerance” policy led to the removal of children from their parents as part of criminal prosecutions for illegal entry. This sparked widespread outrage, leading to an executive order that attempted to end family separations. However, court challenges revealed significant flaws in the administration’s handling of the separations, with inadequate systems for reunifying families. Despite efforts to address the issue, thousands of children remained separated from their families by the end of his term.

Trump’s Border Wall and Government Shutdown

One of Donald Trump’s major campaign promises was to build a 1,000-mile wall along the U.S.-Mexico border, with the expectation that Mexico would finance it. This was a central aspect of his immigration policy, as he aimed to prevent illegal immigration and enhance national security. However, by the end of his presidency, the actual construction resulted in only about 40 miles of new primary wall, 33 miles of secondary wall, and 365 miles of upgraded fencing along the border. These efforts primarily focused on replacing older, outdated barriers and addressing gaps in existing structures.

In 2018, Trump faced a significant standoff with Congress over funding for his proposed border wall. He insisted that any funding bill must allocate $5.6 billion for the wall’s construction, which led to a partial government shutdown lasting 35 days from December 2018 to January 2019. This was the longest government shutdown in U.S. history. Approximately 800,000 federal workers were either furloughed or required to work without pay during this period, resulting in widespread disruption. The shutdown ended with a temporary funding bill that provided delayed pay for government employees but did not allocate any funds for the wall, highlighting the challenges Trump faced in pushing through his agenda.

Permanent economic loss

The shutdown caused an estimated permanent economic loss of around $3 billion, according to the Congressional Budget Office.Public opinion was divided. About half of those polled blamed Trump for the shutdown. This negatively impacted his approval ratings. To prevent another shutdown, Congress passed a funding bill. The bill included $1.375 billion for 55 miles of border fencing. However, this was a far cry from the $5.6 billion Trump initially demanded.

In a bid to circumvent Congress, Trump declared a national emergency on the southern border in February 2019. This move allowed him to reallocate $6.1 billion in funds from other projects to finance border wall construction. However, this action faced legal challenges, particularly the diversion of $2.5 billion from the Department of Defense’s drug interdiction efforts and $3.6 billion from military construction projects. Despite these challenges, Trump’s administration was able to proceed with some aspects of the wall’s construction.

Trump’s Foreign Policy: “America First”

Trump’s foreign policy was largely defined by his “America First” mantra, which emphasized national interests, protectionism, and a more isolationist approach. He positioned himself as a nationalist and supported populist and authoritarian governments around the world. Trump’s foreign policy approach often led to strained relations with traditional U.S. allies, particularly in Europe, where his critiques of NATO and multilateral institutions were seen as destabilizing.

Trade Policies: Donald Trump

Trump’s trade policies were a key aspect of his presidency. He pulled the U.S. out of the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP), a trade agreement that was originally designed to strengthen trade ties between the U.S. and several Pacific nations. He also imposed tariffs on steel and aluminum imports, arguing that this would protect American industries from unfair competition. His trade war with China escalated in 2018 when he imposed tariffs on $50 billion worth of Chinese goods, accusing China of unfair trade practices.

Trump argued that these tariffs would lead to a reduction in the U.S. trade deficit. However, the trade deficit actually increased during his time in office. Trump wanted to renegotiate trade deals to reduce deficits. However, his tariffs raised costs for American consumers and businesses. One notable deal Trump secured was the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). The USMCA replaced the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) in 2020.

Relations with Russia: Donald Trump

Trump’s relationship with Russia, and particularly with Russian President Vladimir Putin, was a subject of controversy throughout his presidency. Trump consistently praised Putin and rarely criticized his actions, even as tensions between the U.S. and Russia remained high. After the 2016 election, Russian interference became a major issue. Trump seemed to side with Putin’s denials, despite U.S. intelligence conclusions. This drew bipartisan criticism of Trump’s handling of Russia.

Trump’s administration also took actions that were seen as favorable to Russia. For example, it weakened sanctions on Russian entities after Crimea’s annexation. In 2019, Trump withdrew from the Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces Treaty. He accused Russia of violating the agreement.

Relations with China: Donald Trump

Trump’s policies toward China were another cornerstone of his foreign policy. His administration took a hardline stance on Chinese trade practices, accusing the country of currency manipulation and unfair trade practices. Trump’s trade war with China involved tariffs on hundreds of billions of dollars in Chinese goods. Although Trump initially praised Chinese President Xi Jinping, his stance grew more critical, particularly after the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, which Trump increasingly blamed on China.

In addition to trade issues, Trump also addressed human rights abuses in China, particularly in Xinjiang, where millions of Uyghur Muslims have been detained in internment camps. His administration imposed sanctions and visa restrictions on Chinese officials in response to these abuses, highlighting human rights as a significant area of concern in U.S.-China relations.

North Korea: Donald Trump

Trump’s approach to North Korea was marked by sharp contrasts. Initially, he engaged in bellicose rhetoric, warning of “fire and fury” in response to North Korea’s nuclear missile tests. However, after a period of tension, Trump and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un engaged in a series of diplomatic talks, culminating in three high-profile summits, the first being in Singapore in 2018. Despite the personal rapport between Trump and Kim, these talks ultimately failed to achieve concrete progress on denuclearization, with North Korea continuing to develop its nuclear weapons and missile programs.

Middle East Policies: Donald Trump

Trump’s policies in the Middle East were similarly aggressive and unorthodox. In Afghanistan, Trump initially increased U.S. troop numbers before later negotiating a peace agreement with the Taliban in 2020, which called for the withdrawal of U.S. forces. By the end of his presidency, the U.S. had reduced its troop presence in Afghanistan, and although violence persisted, the deal with the Taliban set the stage for a full withdrawal.

Trump was also a strong supporter of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and implemented several key policies favorable to Israel. This included recognizing Jerusalem as the capital of Israel and supporting Israeli sovereignty over the Golan Heights. Additionally, under Trump, the U.S. brokered the Abraham Accords, a series of agreements that normalized relations between Israel and several Arab nations, including the UAE and Bahrain.

Saudi Arabia and Syria: Donald Trump

Trump’s foreign policy in the Middle East was also shaped by his relationship with Saudi Arabia. He strongly supported the Saudi-led intervention in Yemen and oversaw significant arms sales to the kingdom. However, following the attack on Saudi oil facilities in 2019, Trump authorized additional U.S. troop deployments to the region in support of Saudi Arabia and the UAE.

Trump’s policy in Syria, especially his decision to withdraw U.S. troops in 2019, was controversial. It led to a Turkish invasion of northern Syria and displaced U.S.-allied Kurdish forces. The move was heavily criticized by members of both political parties in the U.S., with many arguing that it was a betrayal of the Kurds who had been vital allies in the fight against ISIS.

This summary highlights some of the most important aspects of Donald Trump’s policies and decisions during his presidency. His approach was often unconventional and marked by a focus on unilateral action, challenging traditional international alliances and norms.

Iran:

In May 2018, President Trump withdrew the U.S. from the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), a landmark 2015 agreement that had lifted many economic sanctions on Iran in exchange for Iran curbing its nuclear program. Trump’s decision significantly altered the dynamics of international relations and resulted in escalating tensions with Iran. Subsequently, in August 2020, the Trump administration attempted, but failed, to leverage a clause in the nuclear deal to push the United Nations (UN) to reimpose sanctions on Iran. Analysts observed that Iran’s nuclear activities accelerated after the U.S. exit, bringing the country closer to developing nuclear weapons.

The tension further escalated in January 2020 when Trump ordered the assassination of General Qasem Soleimani, a top Iranian military commander. Soleimani had been a key figure behind Iranian operations across the Middle East for over two decades. In retaliation, Iran launched ballistic missile attacks against two U.S. military bases in Iraq, which resulted in numerous U.S. soldiers suffering traumatic brain injuries. Trump downplayed the severity of these injuries, initially denying the soldiers the Purple Heart medals typically given to those injured in combat.

Personnel: Donald Trump

Trump’s presidency witnessed a notably high turnover rate among his staff, particularly in the White House. By the end of his first year, over a third of his original staff had either resigned, been fired, or reassigned. By July 2018, a staggering 61% of his senior aides had left, setting a record for recent presidencies in terms of staff changes. Key figures like National Security Advisor Michael Flynn and Press Secretary Sean Spicer were among the early departures. Several of Trump’s close aides, including Steve Bannon, Hope Hicks, and John McEntee, also left but returned to the administration later. Trump frequently disparaged former top officials, publicly calling them incompetent or foolish.

The president had four different White House chiefs of staff during his tenure. Reince Priebus was replaced by General John F. Kelly after seven months, but Kelly’s influence waned, leading to his resignation in December 2018. Kelly was succeeded by Mick Mulvaney, who served as acting chief of staff, before being replaced by Mark Meadows in 2020. Trump was also known for his controversial firing of FBI Director James Comey in 2017, which was initially justified by Trump’s dissatisfaction with Comey’s handling of the investigation into Hillary Clinton’s emails. However, Trump later acknowledged that his real reason for firing Comey was his role in the Trump-Russia investigation.

Judiciary: Donald Trump

Trump made a significant impact on the judiciary by appointing 226 federal judges, including 54 to the courts of appeals and three to the U.S. Supreme Court. His appointments, including Neil Gorsuch, Brett Kavanaugh, and Amy Coney Barrett, shifted the Court to a more conservative stance. Trump’s judicial appointments played a pivotal role in overturning landmark rulings, most notably Roe v. Wade, with all three of his Supreme Court appointees voting in favor of the decision to overturn it.

However, Trump frequently criticized judges and courts that ruled against him, questioning their constitutional authority and attacking them personally. His rhetoric drew concerns about the erosion of judicial independence and public trust in the judiciary.

COVID-19 Pandemic: Donald Trump

The COVID-19 pandemic dramatically shaped Trump’s presidency. The first confirmed case in the U.S. was reported on January 20, 2020, and Trump initially downplayed the severity of the virus. Despite early warnings from health officials, he continued to focus on the political and economic consequences of the outbreak. Trump often minimized the risks of COVID-19, calling it less deadly than influenza and suggesting it would soon subside. In private conversations, however, Trump admitted that he was intentionally downplaying the situation to avoid causing panic.

By mid-March, the pandemic’s full impact began to unfold, with financial markets plunging, and Trump declared a national emergency on March 13. He also implemented partial travel restrictions and authorized emergency funding for federal agencies. However, Trump’s response continued to face scrutiny as he contradicted health experts, promoted unproven treatments, and downplayed the seriousness of the virus.

Trump’s administration faced mounting criticism for its handling of the pandemic, especially in the early stages when testing was limited and inconsistent. In late spring and early summer, Trump shifted blame to state governors and federal health agencies rather than accepting responsibility for his administration’s missteps. He also faced backlash for encouraging protests against lockdown measures and for minimizing the importance of mask-wearing, contradicting expert advice on preventing the virus’s spread.

World Health Organization (WHO)

Trump’s relationship with the World Health Organization (WHO) became increasingly contentious during the pandemic. Prior to the pandemic, he had criticized the WHO for its handling of global health issues, and during the pandemic, he accused the organization of mishandling the response to COVID-19. Trump also claimed that the WHO was under the influence of China and had helped conceal the virus’s origins. In May 2020, Trump announced that the U.S. would withdraw from the WHO, a decision that was widely criticized by health professionals and international leaders.

Trump’s withdrawal from the WHO was seen as a diversion from his administration’s handling of the pandemic, which faced widespread criticism for lack of coordination and preparation. The decision to leave the WHO took effect in 2021, just after Trump left office.

Pressure to Abandon Pandemic Mitigation Measures

As the pandemic worsened, Trump faced pressure from Republican-aligned groups to lift lockdown restrictions and reopen the economy. He expressed support for anti-lockdown protests and publicly criticized state governors who imposed stricter measures. Despite the growing number of COVID-19 cases, Trump downplayed the risks, frequently stating that the U.S. had more cases simply because of increased testing.

Trump’s actions and statements often contradicted the guidance from health experts, leading to confusion and undermining efforts to contain the virus. His comments, including suggesting that fewer reported cases would make the U.S. “look better,” and his refusal to adopt consistent health measures, such as wearing masks, weakened national efforts to mitigate the pandemic’s effects.

Political Pressure on Health Agencies

Throughout the pandemic, Trump exerted political pressure on health agencies like the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). He pushed for faster approval of treatments and vaccines, often bypassing scientific scrutiny. Trump’s political appointees at the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) interfered with CDC communications, attempting to align public statements with Trump’s narrative that the pandemic was under control.

Trump also made baseless claims about a “deep state” within the FDA, alleging that bureaucrats were deliberately delaying vaccine approvals to hurt his political prospects. This undermined trust in health agencies and their ability to provide accurate, science-based information during a public health crisis.

Outbreak at the White House

In October 2020, the White House became a focal point in the COVID-19 outbreak, with several senior officials, including Trump himself, testing positive for the virus. Trump’s diagnosis led to his hospitalization, a moment that underscored the severity of the pandemic and the vulnerability of public figures to the virus. The outbreak at the White House further highlighted the mixed messages and inconsistent approach to pandemic mitigation within the administration.

Investigations into Donald Trump

After assuming office, Donald Trump faced numerous investigations, covering a wide range of topics including his election campaign, personal finances, business dealings, taxes, and actions during his presidency. These investigations involved various levels of scrutiny, from federal and state investigations to congressional probes.

Financial Investigations: Donald Trump

In April 2019, the House Oversight Committee issued subpoenas to several institutions, including Deutsche Bank, Capital One, and Trump’s accounting firm, Mazars USA, seeking detailed financial records. These subpoenas aimed to uncover financial information related to Trump’s personal and business activities. In response, Trump filed lawsuits against the banks, Mazars, and committee chair Elijah Cummings to prevent the disclosure of such information. However, in May 2019, DC District Court Judge Amit Mehta ruled that Mazars must comply with the subpoena, and similarly, Judge Edgardo Ramos of the Southern District Court of New York ordered the banks to comply. Trump’s legal team appealed these rulings. Eventually, in September 2022, a settlement was reached, and Mazars began turning over financial documents to the committee.

Russian Election Interference: Donald Trump

In January 2017, U.S. intelligence agencies confirmed that Russia interfered in the 2016 election to favor Trump. The CIA, FBI, and NSA supported this conclusion. FBI Director Comey testified in March 2017 about investigating links between Russia and the Trump campaign. Reports showed that Trump associates, including Paul Manafort, Michael Flynn, and Roger Stone, had ties with Russian officials. These connections occurred both before and after the election. For example, Flynn spoke with Russian Ambassador Sergey Kislyak in December 2016 about sanctions imposed by the Obama administration.

In May 2017, Trump made a controversial statement to Kislyak and Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, claiming he was unconcerned about Russian interference. Trump and his allies later promoted a conspiracy theory that Ukraine, not Russia, was responsible for the election interference. This theory, which had also been promoted by Russia, sought to deflect attention from Russian actions and accuse Ukraine instead.

FBI Crossfire Hurricane and 2017 Counterintelligence Investigations

In July 2016, the FBI launched Crossfire Hurricane. It aimed to examine potential connections between Russia and the Trump campaign. The investigation later expanded into a counterintelligence inquiry. This focused on Trump’s personal and business dealings with Russia. The inquiry followed Trump’s firing of FBI Director James Comey in May 2017. The Crossfire Hurricane investigation transferred to Robert Mueller’s special counsel inquiry. Deputy Attorney General Rod Rosenstein ended the probe into Trump’s direct ties to Russia. He misled the FBI, making them think Mueller’s investigation would continue it.

Mueller Investigation: Donald Trump

In May 2017, Rosenstein appointed Robert Mueller as the special counsel to investigate possible coordination between Russia and the Trump campaign during the 2016 election. Mueller’s investigation also looked into potential obstruction of justice by Trump, particularly surrounding his firing of Comey. Trump repeatedly sought to dismiss Mueller or shut down the investigation but was deterred by his staff or his changing stance. In March 2019, Mueller submitted his final report to Attorney General William Barr, who issued a summary to Congress. Mueller and a federal court later criticized Barr for mischaracterizing the findings.

Several of Trump’s associates, including Manafort and Flynn, were convicted or pleaded guilty in connection with the Mueller investigation. Trump’s former attorney, Michael Cohen, admitted to lying to Congress about Trump’s efforts to build a Trump Tower in Moscow. Cohen claimed he made these false statements on Trump’s behalf.

First Impeachment: Donald Trump

In August 2019, a whistleblower reported concerns about a phone call between Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, in which Trump allegedly pressured Zelenskyy to investigate Joe Biden and his son Hunter Biden. This was part of a broader scheme, allegedly orchestrated by Trump’s personal attorney, Rudy Giuliani, to advance Trump’s political interests. Trump confirmed that he had withheld military aid from Ukraine, citing various reasons. However, it became clear that the aid was being used as leverage to secure the investigation into Biden.

On September 24, House Speaker Nancy Pelosi initiated a formal impeachment inquiry. By December 18, the House of Representatives voted to impeach Trump on two articles: abuse of power and obstruction of Congress. The impeachment was centered on the claim that Trump had used his presidential power to pressure a foreign government to interfere in the U.S. elections for his personal benefit. During the Senate trial in January 2020, Trump’s legal team argued that he had not violated any laws. The Senate ultimately acquitted Trump, though Senator Mitt Romney was the only Republican to vote to convict on one charge—abuse of power.

Second Impeachment

Following the January 6, 2021, Capitol riot, Trump was impeached a second time for incitement of insurrection. The House of Representatives passed the article of impeachment on January 13, 2021, with ten Republicans joining Democrats in voting for it. This made Trump the first president in U.S. history to be impeached twice. In the subsequent Senate trial, Trump was acquitted again, but the vote was notably bipartisan, with seven Republicans joining Democrats in voting to convict. However, the vote fell short of the necessary two-thirds majority required to convict. Some Republican senators argued that the Senate lacked jurisdiction over a former president, as Trump had left office before the trial concluded.

Post-Presidency (2021–Present)

After leaving office, Donald Trump relocated to his Mar-a-Lago estate in Florida, where he established an office as stipulated by the Former Presidents Act. This law allows former presidents to maintain an office and staff for purposes related to public duties. Trump is also legally allowed to reside there as an employee of the club, further consolidating his position at the location.

Trump’s false claims about the 2020 election were widely referred to as the “big lie.” This narrative was central to much of his post-presidency actions, including pressuring state legislators to overturn the election results well into 2022. The Republican Party, in alignment with Trump’s claims, sought to implement voting restrictions that favored their candidates. Trump continued to advocate for these claims through rallies and media appearances, showing how influential his narrative remained within the party.

Unlike most former presidents, Trump continued to exercise significant control over the Republican Party. He was described as a “modern party boss,” using his influence to shape the political landscape. He raised substantial amounts of money for both his own initiatives and various Republican candidates, particularly focusing on elections and the role of election officials who resisted his attempts to overturn the 2020 results. His endorsement carried significant weight, and he backed over 200 candidates in the 2022 midterm elections, most of whom supported his election fraud claims.

Business Activities: Donald Trump

In February 2021, Trump created Trump Media & Technology Group (TMTG), aiming to provide social networking services. TMTG later merged with Digital World Acquisition in March 2024, going public. This move was part of Trump’s broader strategy to enter the digital media space. In February 2022, TMTG launched Truth Social, a social media platform that became a key part of Trump’s post-presidency business ventures. However, his business dealings have not been without controversy. In 2023, federal prosecutors began investigating TMTG for potential money laundering, particularly after the company received financial backing from entities with connections to Russia.

Investigations, Criminal Indictments, and Convictions

Trump is the first U.S. president or former president to face a criminal conviction, making history as the first major-party candidate to run for president after a felony conviction. He is involved in multiple criminal cases and civil suits, ranging from his handling of classified materials to attempts to influence elections.

FBI Investigations: Donald Trump

The FBI has been investigating Trump over various matters, particularly related to his handling of classified documents. After leaving the White House in 2021, Trump took numerous government materials with him to Mar-a-Lago. Some of these materials were classified, and by May 2021, the National Archives sought to recover them. A subpoena was issued, and despite some documents being returned, the situation escalated, leading to an FBI search of Mar-a-Lago in August 2022. The search uncovered classified documents, including highly sensitive material. This led to investigations under the Espionage Act and for obstruction of justice.

In November 2022, Attorney General Merrick Garland appointed Jack Smith as special counsel to oversee criminal investigations related to Trump’s mishandling of government records and his involvement in the January 6 Capitol attack.

Criminal Referral by the House January 6 Committee

The U.S. House Select Committee investigating the January 6 attack recommended criminal charges against Trump for obstruction, conspiracy to defraud the United States, and incitement of insurrection. These charges stemmed from his role in the events surrounding the Capitol riots.

Federal and State Criminal Indictments

In December 2022, the Trump Organization was convicted on 17 counts of tax fraud and related crimes. Trump was not personally charged, but his company was fined heavily. In 2023, federal charges were filed against Trump for his handling of national defense information, with 31 counts of willfully retaining classified documents. Trump pleaded not guilty, and the case continues to develop, including motions and appeals regarding the handling of the charges.

Criminal Conviction in the 2016 Campaign Fraud Case

Trump also faces legal consequences for actions during his 2016 presidential campaign. His former lawyer, Michael Cohen, arranged payments to silence women who claimed to have had affairs with Trump. These payments were made to influence the election and violated campaign finance laws. Trump was indicted in 2023 for falsifying business records related to these hush-money payments, with a trial set to begin in 2024.

Civil Lawsuits

Trump is also embroiled in several civil lawsuits. In 2022, New York’s attorney general filed a civil fraud lawsuit against him and his company, alleging that Trump inflated the value of assets for financial gain. A 2023 ruling found Trump and his company liable for fraud, resulting in a significant penalty and restrictions on his business operations in New York.

Additionally, Trump was found liable for sexual abuse and defamation in a civil case brought by journalist E. Jean Carroll, who accused him of assault. Trump was ordered to pay $5 million in damages in 2023, and the case continues as Trump appeals the verdict. A separate defamation case related to Carroll’s accusations also resulted in significant financial penalties, adding to Trump’s growing list of legal challenges.

Public Image and Approval Ratings

Donald Trump’s public image throughout his presidency was marked by consistently low approval ratings. According to Gallup polling, Trump was the only U.S. president since 1938 who never reached a 50% approval rating. His approval ratings were highly polarized, with Republican support consistently around 88%, while support from Democrats was extremely low, often around 7%. His approval remained unusually stable early in his presidency, fluctuating between 35% and 49%. However, by the time he left office, his approval had fallen drastically, reaching between 29% and 34%, marking the lowest approval rating of any president since modern polling began. Over his entire presidency, his average approval rating was 41%, another record-low figure.

Scholarly Assessments

Scholars and historians have widely criticized Trump’s presidency. According to the 2021 C-SPAN “Presidential Historians Survey,” Trump was ranked as the fourth-worst president. His leadership qualities, particularly moral authority and administrative skills, were evaluated very poorly. The Siena College Research Institute’s 2022 survey ranked him 43rd out of 45 U.S. presidents, placing him near the bottom in all categories except for luck, willingness to take risks, and party leadership. He was ranked last in several areas, underscoring the widespread scholarly criticism of his presidency. The American Political Science Association, in surveys conducted in 2018 and 2024, named Trump the worst president in American history, further solidifying the negative historical assessments of his time in office.

Political Practices

Trump’s time in office was also marked by frequent false and misleading statements, which became a defining feature of his political identity. Fact-checking organizations like The Washington Post documented over 30,000 false claims made by Trump during his presidency. The frequency of these falsehoods increased over time, from around six misleading claims per day in his first year to 39 per day in his final year. Some of these falsehoods were relatively harmless, such as exaggerated claims about the size of his inaugural crowd. However, many had more serious consequences, such as his promotion of unproven COVID-19 treatments, which not only caused public panic but also led to a shortage of antimalarial drugs. His rhetoric surrounding crime and radical Islamic terror also served his political purposes, albeit with significant misrepresentation of facts.

Rhetoric and Incitement of Violence

Trump’s rhetoric during his campaign and presidency has been linked to an increase in hate crimes and political violence. His public encouragement of physical violence against protesters and reporters, particularly during his 2016 campaign, set a dangerous precedent for his supporters. Many individuals involved in violent acts, including the January 6, 2021, storming of the U.S. Capitol, cited Trump’s rhetoric as a justification for their actions. A nationwide review identified at least 54 criminal cases from 2015 to 2020 in which Trump was mentioned in connection with violence or threats, often targeting minority groups. This connection between his inflammatory rhetoric and subsequent violent acts raised concerns about the broader implications of his language and its potential to incite further acts of extremism.

Promotion of Conspiracy Theories

Trump was notorious for promoting a variety of conspiracy theories throughout his public life. From the Obama birtherism theory to the unfounded claims about the Clintons, Trump was consistently linked to the spread of misinformation. He became associated with several high-profile conspiracy movements, including QAnon and the debunked claims of election fraud. Trump’s rhetoric surrounding the 2020 election, in which he claimed that dead people voted, voting machines were manipulated, and ballots were fraudulently discarded, helped fuel widespread disillusionment about the integrity of the electoral process. These conspiracy theories were not only false but contributed to significant political division and unrest.

Social Media Use

Trump’s use of social media, particularly Twitter, played a central role in his communication strategy. His prolific tweeting allowed him to bypass traditional media outlets and speak directly to the public. This direct approach was crucial to his 2016 campaign and continued throughout his presidency. However, his social media presence was frequently criticized for spreading misinformation and encouraging divisiveness. In response to fact-checks on his posts, Trump threatened to regulate or shut down social media platforms. His Twitter account was eventually banned in the wake of the January 6 Capitol riot, a move that significantly reduced his ability to shape public discourse.

Relationship with the Press

Trump’s relationship with the press was marked by mutual antagonism. Throughout his campaign and presidency, Trump often accused the media of bias, labeling news outlets as “fake news” and even calling them “the enemy of the people.” His criticisms were not limited to verbal attacks; his administration sought to revoke press credentials for journalists he deemed hostile. The White House under Trump also attempted to limit the number of press briefings, which dwindled from over 100 in 2017 to just two in 2019. Trump’s attempts to discredit the media were part of a broader strategy to undermine independent journalism and shift public perception.