Donald John Trump (born June 14, 1946) is an American politician, businessman, and media personality serving as the 47th president of the United States since January 20, 2025. A Republican, he previously served as the 45th president from 2017 to 2021, making him the second president—after Grover Cleveland—to serve non-consecutive terms, and the first with no prior military or government service.Born in Queens, New York City, Trump grew up in a wealthy real-estate family. He attended the New York Military Academy and Fordham University before earning a Bachelor of Science in economics from the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania in 1968. In 1971 he assumed control of the family firm, renaming it the Trump Organization, and developed Manhattan luxury properties including Trump Tower, as well as hotels, casinos and golf courses; several companies entered Chapter 11 bankruptcy. He became a national media figure in the 1980s[1], and later hosted NBC’s The Apprentice (2004–2015).Trump defeated Hillary Clinton in the 2016 United States presidential election. His “America First” agenda included the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, broad deregulation, withdrawal from the Paris Agreement and the Iran nuclear deal (JCPOA), tariffs on China, the USMCA trade pact, and the Abraham Accords. He appointed three Supreme Court justices. His administration imposed travel restrictions from certain countries[2] and a zero-tolerance immigration enforcement policy that resulted in family separations at the border[3], and responded to the COVID-19 pandemic with measures including the CARES Act and Operation Warp Speed. The House impeached him twice; the Senate acquitted him both times. After losing the 2020 election to Joe Biden, Trump and allies filed numerous lawsuits challenging the results and pressed state and congressional officials to investigate alleged irregularities or alter certification; most suits were dismissed.[4][5] Civil juries found him liable for sexual abuse and defamation of E. Jean Carroll (2023) and further defamation (2024).[6] A New York civil fraud judgment imposing a large financial penalty was later modified on appeal (penalty vacated as excessive while certain liability findings and other remedies remained subject to further review).[7] In 2024 a New York jury convicted him on 34 felony counts of falsifying business records, the first such conviction of a former U.S. president; he later received an unconditional discharge.[8] Federal cases involving classified documents and the 2020 election, along with a Georgia racketeering indictment, were dismissed.[9][10]Trump defeated Kamala Harris in the 2024 United States presidential election. His second term has included federal workforce reductions, enactment of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act[11], intensified immigration enforcement, additional tariffs (some later constrained by the Supreme Court)[12], and military actions including the capture of Venezuelan president Nicolás Maduro[13]. The administration also directed the declassification and release of government UAP/UFO records[14].
Early life and education
Childhood and family background
Donald John Trump was born on June 14, 1946, at Jamaica Hospital in Queens, New York City, the fourth of five children to Fred Trump, of German descent (the family for a time publicly claimed Swedish ancestry),[15] born in the Bronx, New York City, a real estate developer who built and managed middle-class rental housing in the outer boroughs, and Mary Anne MacLeod Trump, of Scottish descent, born in Tong, Isle of Lewis, Scotland, a homemaker from Scotland.[16] The family's wealth came from Fred's development and management of apartments in Brooklyn and Queens. Trump grew up in a 23-room mansion in the Jamaica Estates neighborhood of Queens.[17] According to a 2018 New York Times investigation (which also described certain later family tax practices as dubious or fraudulent; Trump representatives have denied any fraud), by age 3 Trump was receiving about $20,000 a year, approximately $265,000 in 2024 dollars, from his father's real estate business, including ground rent that Fred Trump's Beach Haven apartment complex paid to a trust for his children; the Times wrote that, in inflation-adjusted terms, he "was a millionaire by age 8".[18][19]Trump's older siblings were Maryanne, Fred Jr., and Elizabeth; his younger brother was Robert. Fred stressed discipline and business skills, engaging his children in the family business early, while Mary managed the household. The family attended Marble Collegiate Church in Manhattan, pastored by Norman Vincent Peale, whose 1952 book The Power of Positive Thinking Fred admired and which shaped their mindset.[20][21] Trump's parents enrolled him at age 13 in the New York Military Academy to instill greater discipline after behavioral issues at his previous school.[22]
Education
Trump attended Kew-Forest School in Queens, New York, from kindergarten through seventh grade.[23] At age 13, his parents transferred him to the New York Military Academy, a private boarding school in upstate New York, because of behavioral issues at Kew-Forest and to instill greater discipline, graduating in 1964.[24][22]He attended Fordham University in the Bronx for two years (1964–1966) before transferring to the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania, from which he graduated in May 1968 with a Bachelor of Science in economics.[25][22] During this period, he obtained four student deferments from the Vietnam War draft.[26]Trump has often described his Wharton record as outstanding and has stated that he achieved top-class performance. The University of Pennsylvania has not released transcripts to confirm these statements; contemporaneous records (the 1968 Dean’s List and commencement program) do not list him among the top students or as receiving honors.[27][28][29][30]
Personal life
Trump has been married three times, fathering five children.[31][32] His first marriage to Ivana Trump (née Zelníčková) in 1977 ended in divorce in 1990 (financial settlement reached in 1991)[33][34] and produced three children: Donald Trump Jr. (born 1977), Ivanka Trump (born 1981), and Eric Trump (born 1984).He wed Marla Maples in 1993, divorcing in 1999, with one daughter, Tiffany Trump (born 1993). Trump married Melania Trump (née Knauss) in 2005, a union ongoing as of 2026, yielding son Barron Trump (born 2006).Donald Trump Jr. was formerly married to Vanessa Trump; Ivanka Trump is married to Jared Kushner; Eric Trump is married to Lara Yunaska; Tiffany Trump is married to Michael Boulos. Ivanka Trump converted to Orthodox Judaism before marrying Jared Kushner in 2009; Kushner has Jewish ancestry, and they observe Jewish practices.[32]
In the late 1990s, following his separation from Marla Maples (with divorce finalized in 1999), Trump dated model Kara Young (who is biracial) for approximately two years, roughly from 1997 to 1999. They were introduced through mutual acquaintances in New York City's social scene and attended high-profile events together. In a 2017 interview Young stated she never heard him make disparaging comments about any race and compared her background to that of Derek Jeter; she later confirmed an anecdote in which Trump joked that she inherited her looks from her Black mother and her intelligence from “the white side,” saying she told him the remark was not funny and that he replied he was joking. The relationship ended amicably.[35][36]
Business career
Real estate development
Donald Trump joined his father's real estate business, Elizabeth Trump & Son, in 1968 after graduating from the University of Pennsylvania, initially focusing on middle-class rental housing in Brooklyn and Queens. In 1971, he renamed the company The Trump Organization and began expanding into Manhattan — seeking higher-profile opportunities in the city's commercial market. His emphasis on deal-making developed in this setting, where negotiating properties, financing, and approvals was central, and he later outlined the approach in his 1987 book The Art of the Deal as involving high aims, persistence, and leverage.[37][38]
In 1973, the Trump Organization faced a lawsuit from the U.S. Department of Justice alleging systemic racial discrimination against African American applicants in its housing developments. Donald Trump and his father Fred hired prominent attorney Roy Cohn to defend the case. Cohn, who served as chief counsel to Senator Joseph McCarthy during the 1950s anti-communist investigations, employed tactics and became a close advisor and mentor to Trump. Cohn taught Trump strategies such as counterattacking fiercely when challenged, maintaining a public image of success, and never admitting defeat—principles that influenced Trump's business practices and later political approach. The lawsuit was settled in 1975 with a consent decree requiring changes to rental practices but without any admission of guilt by the Trumps.A key early project was the renovation of the Commodore Hotel near Grand Central Terminal, acquired in partnership with the Hyatt Corporation in 1975. In 1979, at age 33, Trump served as president of the Trump Organization and was involved in negotiating and developing the renovation of the Commodore Hotel into the Grand Hyatt New York, a significant project that helped establish his reputation in Manhattan. Trump secured a 40-year tax abatement from New York City, enabling the $100 million transformation into the Grand Hyatt Hotel, which reopened in 1980 and helped revitalize the area.Trump Tower, a 58-story mixed-use skyscraper on Fifth Avenue, was constructed beginning in 1978 after demolishing the Bonwit Teller department store, and it was completed in 1983, serving as his company headquarters and residence. The project featured luxury condominiums, retail space, and gold-accented design.In the 1980s, Trump ventured into Atlantic City, New Jersey, capitalizing on legalized gambling. He opened Trump Plaza in 1984 by renovating the former Holiday Inn, followed by Trump Castle (later Trump Marina) in 1985, and the opulent Trump Taj Mahal in 1990 — which was the world's largest casino-hotel at the time with 1,250 rooms.[39] These properties initially thrived — but faced challenges from competition and debt.The early 1990s brought financial strain amid a recession, leading to bankruptcies for specific entities — the Trump Taj Mahal in 1991, the Trump Plaza Hotel in 1992, and the Plaza Hotel in New York in 1992. Restructuring allowed recovery and continued operations.
Trump's real estate and casino ventures were also accompanied by numerous legal disputes with contractors, suppliers, and tax authorities. A 2016 USA TODAY Network review of court records found Trump and his businesses involved in more than 3,500 legal actions over three decades, including about 1,900 in which Trump or his companies were plaintiffs (roughly 1,600 of them collection suits against casino patrons who failed to repay gambling debts) and about 1,300 as defendants; within the contractor subset, at least 60 lawsuits and more than 200 mechanic’s liens alleged non-payment or related disputes with contractors and suppliers.[40][41] These disputes often concluded with partial settlements, dismissals, or counterclaims by Trump entities; outcomes varied, with some contractors recovering amounts and others receiving reduced or no payment after quality or contractual disagreements. Trump has stated that he withholds or reduces payment for work he judged incomplete, late, or of poor quality.[42] Payment, quality, and mechanic’s-lien disputes are frequent in large construction projects; the same review found Trump’s overall litigation volume exceeded that of several other major real-estate developers combined.[41] Resource asymmetry of this kind is typical in commercial litigation involving large developers.[43] Trump also frequently contested property tax assessments on his properties, seeking reductions to lower tax liabilities; for instance, in one case involving the Trump National Golf Club Westchester, he challenged an assessment to reduce it from approximately $50 million in 2015 to $1.4 million.
Bankruptcies
Trump's over-leveraged hotel and casino businesses in Atlantic City and New York filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection six times between 1991 and 2009. These filings enabled the entities to continue operating while banks restructured debt and reduced Trump's shares in the properties.[44] During the 1980s, more than 70 banks had lent Trump $4 billion. After the corporate bankruptcies of the early 1990s, most major banks, with the exception of Deutsche Bank, declined to lend to him.[45]
Although the corporate bankruptcies of his Atlantic City casino businesses led to substantial losses for creditors and contractors, Trump personally never filed for bankruptcy and continued to earn income through management fees, executive salaries, and brand licensing. Following the last filing in 2009, his approach evolved toward an asset-light strategy, emphasizing licensing the Trump name to projects without full ownership, thereby mitigating the risks of direct property ownership.
Diversification and branding
In the 1980s and 1990s, Trump expanded beyond direct real estate ownership by adopting a licensing model through the Trump Organization, allowing third-party developers to use the Trump brand on hotels and golf courses globally in exchange for fees, which reduced capital risk and enabled numerous Trump-branded properties without owning the underlying assets in many cases.[46]During the 2000s, Trump diversified into consumer products, launching Trump Vodka in 2006 and Trump Steaks in 2007 through partnerships—marketed as premium brands tied to his personal image—though both lines were discontinued after short runs due to poor sales. Other ventures included Trump Ice bottled water and Trump Magazine, which folded amid financial difficulties, highlighting the challenges of extending the brand into non-real estate commodities.Trump University, established in 2005 as a for-profit education company offering real estate seminars under the Trump name, faced lawsuits alleging fraud and misrepresentation; it settled for $25 million in 2016 without admitting wrongdoing, resolving claims from former students.[47]Forbes has estimated Trump’s net worth at approximately $6.5 billion as of March 2026 (with later 2026 figures in the $6.6–7 billion range) and has attributed a substantial portion of that value to the Trump brand and licensing deals.[48][49][50]
Media career
The Apprentice
Producer Mark Burnett created The Apprentice, which premiered on NBC on January 8, 2004,[51][52] with Donald Trump serving as the host and executive producer. The show featured teams of contestants competing in business-related challenges, with Trump deciding eliminations in a boardroom setting, ultimately awarding the winner a one-year contract as an executive in the Trump Organization reportedly worth $250,000.[53][51]Trump's signature catchphrase, "You're fired!", delivered during firings, became widely associated with the series.[54] The first season drew strong ratings, averaging about 20.7 million viewers per episode[55] and ranking among the top-rated new programs of the year.[56] This success led to multiple seasons and spin-offs, including Celebrity Apprentice (2008–2015),[57] which featured celebrities competing for charity[58] and initially drew strong ratings but saw declining viewership in later seasons, consistent with broader trends in reality television,[59][60] as well as international adaptations in countries including the UK,[61] India, and Australia.[62][63] Trump hosted the shows from 2004 to 2015.[64][65]
Other television and books
Trump has published approximately 19 books under his name, the majority of which were written or co-written by others (ghostwriters or named co-authors).[66] His first book, The Art of the Deal (1987), was a New York Times Best Seller. It was primarily written by Tony Schwartz, who is credited as a co-author.[67]Trump had cameos in many films and television shows from 1985 to 2001.[68] He made numerous cameo appearances in films and television productions, including playing himself in Home Alone 2: Lost in New York (1992), directing the protagonist to the Plaza Hotel check-in desk, and hosting Saturday Night Live multiple times, where he participated in sketches.[69][70][71]From the late 1980s, he appeared as himself in professional wrestling storylines staged by WWE. His Trump Plaza in Atlantic City hosted WrestleMania IV (1988) and WrestleMania V (1989), the only venue to host consecutive events, and he appeared as a celebrity guest at WrestleMania IV.[72][73] At WrestleMania 23 in 2007, Trump engaged in the "Battle of the Billionaires" storyline against WWE chairman Vince McMahon. Neither wrestled; Trump was represented by Bobby Lashley and McMahon by Umaga in a Hair vs. Hair match with Stone Cold Steve Austin as special guest referee. Lashley defeated Umaga with a spear, after which Trump, Lashley, and Austin shaved McMahon's head bald in the ring. Austin then delivered a Stone Cold Stunner to Trump.[74][75] The event drew a record number of viewers for a WWE pay-per-view at the time.[72] In June 2009, a storyline portrayed Trump purchasing Monday Night Raw from McMahon; Trump announced a commercial-free episode and ticket refunds before McMahon bought the show back for twice the price.[72][76]Starting in the 1990s, Trump appeared dozens of times as a guest on the nationally syndicated Howard Stern Show.[77][78] He had his own short-form talk radio program, Trumped!, from 2004 to 2008.[79] From 2011 until 2015, he was a guest commentator on Fox & Friends.[80][81] In 2021, after SAG-AFTRA’s national board found probable cause for disciplinary action related to the January 6 Capitol events and statements about journalists, Trump (a member since 1989) resigned from the union; days later the union’s board voted to bar any future re-admission.[82][83]Prior to The Apprentice, Trump made notable television appearances, including a 1988 interview on The Oprah Winfrey Show where he discussed business success and mused about a potential presidential bid.[84]
Entry into politics
Early political views
Trump registered as a Republican in 1969, remaining registered as a Republican in 1987, switching to independent in 1999, Democrat in 2001, Republican in 2009, unaffiliated in 2011, and back to Republican in 2012, according to New York City Board of Elections records.[85][86][87] Observers have linked some of the changes to New York business considerations and pragmatic donor relationships in a Democrat-dominated city; Trump himself has described varying ideological affinities, identifying more as a Democrat in many cases because the economy "does better under the Democrats" in a 2004 CNN interview and later citing the influence of living in Manhattan.[88][89]
In September 1987 Trump purchased full-page advertisements in The New York Times, The Washington Post and The Boston Globe declaring that “There’s nothing wrong with America’s Foreign Defense Policy that a little backbone can’t cure” and arguing that Japan and other wealthy allies had been “taking advantage of the United States” on both defense costs and trade.[90][91] In an October 1987 speech to the Portsmouth, New Hampshire Rotary Club, Trump criticized U.S. allies for insufficient defense contributions, proposed that those countries help pay down the federal budget deficit, called for tougher negotiators in Washington, suggested that the United States attack Iran and seize some of its oil fields, called Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini a "son of a bitch" while comparing him unfavorably to Mikhail Gorbachev, and said he was not running for president; contemporary coverage described the remarks as campaign-like.[92][93] Video of the speech circulated again in 2026.[94]In 2000 Trump considered a Reform Party presidential run and published The America We Deserve. In the book he proposed a one-time 14.25 percent tax on individuals and trusts with net worth exceeding $10 million in order to retire the national debt, after which middle-class income taxes would be cut and the estate tax eliminated; he also called for universal health care, writing that he was “a conservative on most issues but a liberal on this one.” He self-described as fiscally conservative and socially liberal (supporting abortion rights with exceptions, including a ban on partial-birth abortion) while criticizing both major parties, but withdrew.[95][96][97][98]Federal and state records show that Trump and related entities donated hundreds of thousands of dollars to candidates of both parties over decades, including the Clintons (Hillary Clinton's Senate campaigns and at least $100,000 via the Donald J. Trump Foundation to the Clinton Foundation). Overall giving skewed toward Democrats in some earlier periods and shifted more heavily Republican after around 2011.[99][100][101][102] Beginning in 2011, while considering a presidential run, Trump repeatedly questioned whether Barack Obama was born in the United States and publicly demanded release of his birth certificate, continuing to raise doubts after the White House released the long-form certificate in April 2011.[103][104] The claims drew widespread media attention and criticism; Trump later stated in 2016 that Obama was born in the United States.[105] In an October 2015 CNN interview, Trump said the world would be "100 percent" better if Saddam Hussein and Muammar Gaddafi remained in power, arguing that Iraq and Libya had become more unstable and terrorism training grounds after their removals, while acknowledging the leaders were "horrible."[106]
2016 presidential campaign
On June 16, 2015, Trump announced his Republican presidential nomination bid descending Trump Tower's escalator in New York City, highlighting illegal immigration—pledging a U.S.-Mexico border wall that Mexico would pay for—and unfair trade deals with China and Mexico, as well as criticism of political leaders.[107][108][109] Contemporary coverage and later analyses described the campaign as emphasizing economic nationalism and anti-establishment rhetoric as a traditional politics outsider.[110][111]In the Republican primaries, Trump competed against a crowded field of 16 other candidates, including Jeb Bush and Marco Rubio. He finished second in the Iowa caucuses (behind Ted Cruz), won the New Hampshire primary, and had successes on Super Tuesday, securing a delegate lead.[112][113] He was nominated at the Republican National Convention in Cleveland, Ohio in July 2016.[114][115]The general election matched Trump against Democrat Hillary Clinton, with three televised debates that included mutual criticisms on topics including Clinton’s emails, trade policy, foreign policy, Trump’s temperament and business record, and personal fitness for office. The campaign’s central slogan was "Make America Great Again." Trump frequently linked it to restoring manufacturing jobs, renegotiating trade deals, and prioritizing American interests.[116][117] On November 8, 2016, Trump won 306 pledged electoral votes to Clinton’s 232 (final certified tally after faithless electors: 304–227). Clinton received approximately 2.9 million more popular votes nationwide. Trump carried the key Rust Belt states of Pennsylvania, Michigan, and Wisconsin.[118][119]
First presidency (2017–2021)
For a more detailed overview of Donald Trump's first presidency, see the Wikipedia article: First presidency of Donald Trump.
Domestic policy
Administrative organization and cabinet priorities
Cabinet focused on reducing bureaucracy, economic growth, and national security. High turnover marked the administration, with priorities including appointing deregulation advocates to agencies like EPA. Reforms targeted the administrative state, appointing three Supreme Court justices shifting it conservative. In an October 2026 Time magazine interview, Trump said he regretted the nominations of Neil Gorsuch, Brett Kavanaugh, and Amy Coney Barrett because they “voted against me too often.”[120] Efforts emphasized executive authority and efficiency over expansive legislation.[121]
Deregulation and executive actions
The administration pursued aggressive deregulation, issuing an executive order requiring agencies to eliminate two regulations for each new one (later exceeding 8-to-1), removing nearly 25,000 pages from the Federal Register and cutting compliance costs by $50 billion annually. Key actions included modernizing NEPA to expedite infrastructure approvals, rescinding the Waters of the United States rule, and easing energy and environmental regulations. Over 100 executive orders addressed administrative streamlining, including "Buy American" policies and protections against politicized debanking precursors. Tariffs under IEEPA raised effective rates to address trade imbalances, detailed in foreign policy.[122]
Immigration enforcement
Trump's administration prioritized border security through executive orders, including a travel ban on nationals from seven Muslim-majority countries and the "zero tolerance" policy, which prosecuted all adults crossing illegally, enforced a family separation policy at the border, and separated over 2,300 families before reversal in June 2018. It expanded the Mexico–United States border wall, constructing over 400 miles of barriers, ended "catch and release," expanded expedited removals, and implemented Migrant Protection Protocols requiring asylum-seekers to await hearings in Mexico. Refugee admissions were curtailed, and sanctuary cities faced funding cuts.[121][122]
Major crisis responses
The COVID-19 pandemic prompted a March 2020 national emergency declaration and the $2.2 trillion CARES Act for stimulus. Trump downplayed the pandemic's severity in early public statements and at times contradicted health officials, but accelerated vaccine development through Operation Warp Speed, yielding FDA approvals by December 2020. Executive orders invoked the Defense Production Act over 100 times for PPE and ventilators; travel bans from China and Europe were imposed early. Economic recovery saw 33.1% Q3 2020 GDP growth.[121][122]
Major legislative initiatives
Key laws included the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, reducing corporate rates to 21% and providing $3.2 trillion in relief; the 2018 First Step Act for criminal justice reform; and the VA Mission Act expanding veterans' care. Attempts to repeal Obamacare failed, but the tax law eliminated its individual mandate. Bipartisan efforts addressed opioids via the SUPPORT Act ($6 billion funding).[122]
UFO and extraterrestrial topics
In June 2020, during an interview with his son Don Trump Jr., Donald Trump replied to the question about what was going on in Roswell, “I won’t talk to you about what I know about it, but it’s very interesting,” and when asked if he would declassify information about it he said, "Well, I’ll have to think about that one."[123] In August 2020, Trump called for "pretty good transparency" on UFOs.[124] The Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2021, signed in December 2020 as COVID-19 relief, required U.S. intelligence agencies to submit an unclassified report on unidentified aerial phenomena within 180 days.[125]
Foreign policy
Trump's "America First" policy prioritized U.S. interests, bilateral deals, and strength against threats like ISIS, which was territorially defeated with leader Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi killed. It withdrew from TPP, Paris Agreement, and the Iran nuclear deal (JCPOA) on May 8, 2018, arguing it failed to adequately restrict Iran's nuclear program and enabled its malign activities; sanctions were reimposed.[126]The administration imposed China tariffs leading to the Phase One deal and renegotiated NAFTA as the USMCA.During his first term, NATO allies increased spending commitments over $100 billion amid criticism of "free-riding." In February 2024, as a candidate, Trump stated at a rally that he would encourage Russia to "do whatever the hell they want" to NATO allies not meeting the 2% defense spending target, implying he would not defend them under Article 5.[12]Recognized Jerusalem as Israel's capital, moving the embassy; brokered Abraham Accords. Summits with Kim Jong-un sought North Korea denuclearization without binding agreement; struck Iranian general Qasem Soleimani.On Russia policy, the administration enacted sanctions for 2016 election interference, expelled diplomats, and approved lethal aid to Ukraine, while Trump pursued personal diplomacy with Putin, including the 2018 Helsinki summit.[127]
State of the Union addresses
Historical polls on Donald Trump's State of the Union addresses, including the 2017 joint session to Congress, showed majority approval among viewers. CBS News snap polls found 75% of viewers approved of the 2018 address and 76% approved of the 2019 address. A CNN poll after the 2017 address indicated 70% of viewers said it boosted optimism about the country.[128][129][130]
2020 election and January 6
After losing the 2020 presidential election to Joe Biden, Trump refused to concede, made unsubstantiated claims of widespread election fraud, and attempted to overturn the results through over 60 lawsuits (most dismissed for lack of evidence), pressure on state officials and legislators to alter outcomes or submit alternate electors, and urging Vice President Pence to reject certification. These efforts culminated in the January 6, 2021, attack on the U.S. Capitol by supporters seeking to disrupt the electoral vote count. A second impeachment on January 13, 2021, charged incitement of insurrection, passing 232–197 with 10 Republican yes votes. Post-office Senate trial acquitted 57–43 on February 13, 2021, short of supermajority. Trump denied wrongdoing, calling both "witch hunts." He is the only president impeached twice.
Impeachments
The House impeached Trump on December 18, 2019, for abuse of power and obstruction of Congress related to a July 25, 2019 phone call with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. In the call, Trump requested investigations into the Biden family’s activities in Ukraine (including Hunter Biden’s board position at Burisma and Joe Biden’s public pressure that led to the firing of prosecutor Viktor Shokin) and into claims of Ukrainian involvement in 2016 election interference.[131] The White House released a rough transcript; no explicit quid pro quo conditioning aid was stated, the security assistance was later released on September 11, 2019, and Zelenskyy said he felt no pressure.[132][133] The inquiry was triggered by a whistleblower complaint from a CIA analyst later widely identified as Eric Ciaramella, an Obama-era NSC holdover with prior Ukraine work tied to the Biden office; subsequent declassifications showed the Intelligence Community Inspector General flagged potential bias (including Democratic registration and prior contacts with House Intelligence Committee Democratic staff) that was not fully disclosed at the time.[134] House votes were 230–197 and 229–198. The Senate acquitted 52–48 and 53–47 on February 5, 2020.A second impeachment on January 13, 2021, charged incitement of insurrection post-January 6 Capitol riot, passing 232–197 with 10 Republican yes votes. Post-office Senate trial acquitted 57–43 on February 13, 2021, short of supermajority. Trump denied wrongdoing, calling both "witch hunts." He is the only president impeached twice.
Between presidencies (2021–2025)
2024 presidential campaign
In November 2022, Trump announced his candidacy for the 2024 presidential election.[135] Despite never attending any of the Republican primary debates, he decisively swept the Republican primaries, defeating opponents like former UN Ambassador Nikki Haley and Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, who many pundits had viewed as an early favorite.[136] Trump's 2024 presidential campaign included a debate with President Joe Biden on June 27.[137] On July 13, an assassination attempt targeted Trump during a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania.[138] Biden withdrew from the race on July 21, endorsing Kamala Harris as the Democratic nominee.[139] Trump defeated Harris in the November 5 general election.[136]
In July 2024, during a speech at the Turning Point Action Believers’ Summit in Florida, Trump addressed Christian conservatives, stating: "I love you Christians. I’m a Christian. I love you. Get out, you gotta get out and vote. In four years, you don’t have to vote again. We’ll have it fixed so good you’re not going to have to vote." He added, "You won’t have to do it anymore. Four more years, you know what? It’ll be fixed, it’ll be fine, you won’t have to vote anymore, my beautiful Christians."The remarks drew criticism for suggesting that future elections might not be necessary or that voting could become obsolete under his leadership. In a subsequent Fox News interview with Laura Ingraham, Trump clarified and reiterated: "Don’t worry about the future. You have to vote on Nov. 5. After that, you don’t have to worry about voting anymore. I don’t care, because we’re going to fix it. The country will be fixed and we won’t even need your vote anymore, because, frankly, we will have such love. If you don’t want to vote anymore, that’s OK." He framed it as encouraging low-turnout voters to participate once, promising to "straighten out the country" so their votes would no longer be needed due to resolved issues and national unity.These comments were part of Trump's broader 2024 campaign messaging targeting evangelical and conservative Christian voters, whom he described as historically infrequent participants in elections.
Second presidency (2025–2029)
Throughout his second term, Trump has maintained high engagement with his supporters through large rallies, active use of Truth Social, and direct communication, keeping the MAGA movement energized and closely connected.In August 2025, Trump claimed to have raised over $1.5 billion for his political entities since the 2024 election, with funds intended to support Republican efforts in the 2026 midterms.[140] Also in August 2025, he donated his first presidential paycheck of the second term to the White House Historical Association to support renovations; he has continued donating his salary toward White House preservation projects, as confirmed in 2026 reports.[141][142]On April 25, 2026, a gunman charged through security at the White House Correspondents' Association dinner at the Washington Hilton, prompting Secret Service agents to evacuate President Trump from the ballroom. The 31-year-old California suspect fired a shotgun at a Secret Service agent at a checkpoint before being tackled and detained; the agent was protected by a bulletproof vest. Officials stated the gunman appeared to have set out to target administration officials, likely including the president.[143]On October 3, 2026, Trump posted on Truth Social what he identified as the cellphone number of Sen. Tom Cotton and urged Arkansans to call him in support of the Sunshine Protection Act to make daylight saving time permanent. The legislation had passed the House in July 2026 but encountered opposition in the Senate, with Cotton among its vocal critics who cited potential dark winter mornings. Trump argued that changing clocks twice a year "discombobulates everybody" and would benefit activities like golf and tennis.[144][145]Also on October 3, 2026, Trump posted videos on Truth Social reiterating his promise of $5,000 "Trump Dividend" checks to every adult U.S. citizen if Republicans retain control of the House and Senate in the November midterm elections, attributing the funds to tariffs and record economic success. The administration separately announced one-time $90 payments from the previously unused $2 billion Medicare Improvement Fund to more than 20 million Medicare Part B enrollees to offset premiums, with disbursements beginning in early October.[146][147][148]
Domestic policy
Trump's second presidency, inaugurated on January 20, 2025, with White House Chief of Staff Susie Wiles and Deputy Chief of Staff Dan Scavino, and key cabinet members including Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth, has prioritized border security, economic growth through tariffs and deregulation, energy independence—including the executive order "Unleashing American Energy" signed on January 20, 2025, directing federal agencies to expedite permitting for domestic production and exports to restore American energy dominance—and government efficiency. The administration initiated substantial reductions in the federal workforce, leading to over 300,000 job losses through firings, buyouts, and attrition.[149] On July 4, 2025, Trump signed the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, which enacted significant changes to federal taxes, credits, and deductions.[150] Tariffs were applied to imports from nearly all countries, raising effective rates to the highest levels since the Great Depression.[151] Immigration policies focused on mass deportations, with over 600,000 removals by December 2025.[152] Numerous executive actions, including over 210 executive orders issued by October 2025, have prompted over 650 lawsuits challenging their legality.[153] On March 23, 2026, Trump visited Memphis, Tennessee, to highlight the achievements of the Memphis Safe Task Force.[154]
In October 2026, Trump approved the execution by firing squad of Nidal Hasan, the former U.S. Army major convicted of killing 13 people in the 2009 Fort Hood shooting, scheduled for December 3, 2026, at Fort Hood; it would be the first U.S. military execution since 1961.[155] Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth announced that the execution would be livestreamed so that "people need to understand that there's serious consequences for these types of things."[156] The plan drew criticism from Pope Leo XIV, who stated that "the death penalty is inadmissible because it is an attack on the inviolability and dignity of the person," and from Hillary Clinton, who called the livestream a "barbaric idea, beneath our dignity as a country."[157][158] Trump described Hasan as "one of the worst killers" and the death penalty as "a very worthy way," suggesting that broadcasting it might deter similar acts while stating that he would make the final decision on whether to livestream it.[159]
As part of the administration's Make America Healthy Again (MAHA) initiative, in April 2026 the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced bold actions to ensure drinking water is safe from microplastics, pharmaceuticals, and potential hidden contaminants.[160][161]In October 2026, at a campaign rally in Georgia, Trump claimed he had suggested to Google representatives that the Atlantic or Pacific Ocean be renamed the "Trump Ocean," which they rejected because oceans cover many countries. Trump said he had only been joking this time. It was not immediately clear whether any such exchange with Google had taken place. This followed a 2025 executive order renaming the Gulf of Mexico the "Gulf of America" and an August 2026 renaming of Lake Ontario as "Lake America," both of which Google Maps adopted for users in the United States.[162]
Administration and cabinet
On January 30, 2026, Trump's public schedule included a 9:00 AM in-town pool call time and an 11:00 AM signing of an executive order, after which reporters were abruptly ushered out without questions, prompting unsubstantiated social media speculation, with no credible evidence supporting any of the claims; with no public speeches, major appearances, rallies, or press conferences reported; he announced his nomination of Kevin Warsh as Federal Reserve Chair that morning following a meeting with him.[163]
Affinity for Andrew Jackson and Historical Parallels
One of Donald Trump's first actions upon returning to the Oval Office in January 2025 was restoring a portrait of Andrew Jackson, the seventh U.S. president, which had been removed during the Biden administration. Trump had previously hung Jackson's portrait during his first term (2017-2021), calling Jackson an "amazing figure in American history" and drawing inspiration from his outsider status, defiance of elites, and populist approach. This symbolic gesture, representing populist leadership and decisive action, underscored Trump's self-identification with Jackson as a decisive "doer" focused on results, national strength, and direct appeals to the "common man," rather than the systematic philosophical reasoning of Enlightenment thinkers like Francis Bacon, Isaac Newton, and John Locke, or the reflective constitutionalism of Founders such as Thomas Jefferson and James Madison.[164][165]Scholars and commentators have frequently drawn parallels between Trump and Jackson, highlighting shared traits of anti-elitism, executive assertiveness, nationalism, and reshaping political parties around personal leadership and popular sovereignty. Trump's "America First" agenda, emphasis on tariffs for national interest, border security, and skepticism of institutional elites echo Jacksonian democracy's focus on agrarian/common man interests against centralized power (e.g., Jackson's war on the Second Bank of the United States). While differences exist—Jackson's era involved territorial expansion and different social contexts—Trump's style prioritizes instinct, will, and tangible outcomes over abstract theory, aligning more with Jackson's "man of action" archetype than the Founders' emphasis on reasoned governance and limited government grounded in natural rights.[164]
Deregulation and executive actions
The second Trump administration pursued various deregulation initiatives to reduce federal bureaucracy, promote energy production, and foster economic growth, including expedited permitting for domestic energy projects and reductions in regulatory burdens on businesses. These efforts built on similar policies from his first term.
Economic and trade policies
President Trump's second-term economic and trade policies emphasized protectionism, tax reforms, and boosting domestic production of critical minerals and industries. In February 2026, Trump announced a trade deal with India reducing tariffs on Indian goods from 50% to 18% in exchange for India ending purchases of Russian oil.[166]In April 2025, the administration announced broad "reciprocal" tariffs, triggering market volatility. Trump posted on Truth Social urging calm and to buy, including a reference to "DJT" (Trump Media stock), before announcing a 90-day tariff pause that prompted a sharp market recovery, including a 9.5% S&P 500 surge. The incident sparked debate over potential conflicts of interest due to Trump's majority stake in Trump Media & Technology Group.In a January 2026 Wall Street Journal op-ed, Trump claimed the tariffs had driven unprecedented growth, reduced deficits, and boosted exports. However, on February 20, 2026, the Supreme Court ruled 6-3 that the tariffs exceeded presidential authority under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act. The administration responded by raising global tariffs to 15% and later imposing them under Section 122 of the Trade Act of 1974.The One Big Beautiful Bill Act, signed July 4, 2025, enacted major tax reforms including a temporary above-the-line deduction of up to $25,000 for qualified tips and overtime pay for eligible workers (commonly referred to as "no tax on tips" and "no tax on overtime"), as well as enhanced deductions for working Americans and seniors to stimulate growth.To promote the "no tax on tips" provision, President Trump staged an event in the Oval Office in 2026, ordering McDonald's via DoorDash delivery. He tipped the driver $100 and highlighted the tax relief for tipped workers under the new law.1Additional initiatives included a $1.6 billion investment in USA Rare Earth for critical minerals production, the "Project Vault" for domestic stockpiles, and announcements of Japanese investments in U.S. energy and industrial projects in Ohio, Texas, and Georgia. On March 27, 2026, Trump hosted agricultural leaders and called on farm equipment manufacturers to voluntarily lower prices, while announcing SBA loan guarantees for farmers and suppliers affected by trade policies.
Health during second presidency
In July 2025, the White House announced that President Trump had been diagnosed with chronic venous insufficiency, a common and benign condition among older adults that causes blood to pool in the lower legs, leading to swelling. The diagnosis followed a comprehensive examination prompted by observed mild swelling in his lower extremities. White House physician Dr. Sean Barbabella confirmed no signs of more serious issues like deep vein thrombosis.Trump briefly tried compression socks to manage the swelling but discontinued them due to discomfort. Additionally, reports noted persistent bruising on his hands, attributed in part to daily aspirin use (325 mg), which can increase bruising risk.These health details addressed public speculation arising from visible symptoms in photographs and videos, such as ankle swelling and occasional limping or gait adjustments observed in early 2026 footage, though no acute incidents like seizures or collapses were reported.In April 2026, Dr. Mehmet Oz reported on Donald Trump Jr.'s "Triggered" podcast that President Trump holds the belief that diet soda, such as Diet Coke, can kill cancer cells. Oz stated that Trump reasoned this from observing that diet soda kills grass when poured on it, extrapolating that it "must" have a similar effect on cancer cells.White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt dismissed the reported comments as a "joke." Medical experts and physicians have widely stated that there is no scientific evidence to support the idea that diet soda kills cancer cells or prevents cancer, and excessive consumption of diet sodas is not recommended for health reasons.Trump is known for his high consumption of Diet Coke, reportedly up to 12 cans per day during his first term.Dr. Oz says Trump thinks diet soda 'must kill cancer cells'Trump believes diet soda kills cancer cells, Dr Oz revealsTrump claimed diet soda kills cancer, Dr. Oz says
Immigration and border security
Key initiatives include securing the border and ending illegal immigration via enhanced enforcement by the Department of Homeland Security.[167] In late January 2026, following the fatal shootings of two U.S. citizens by federal agents in Minneapolis during immigration operations—amid backlash and investigations—Trump dispatched Border Czar Tom Homan to the scene and spoke with city officials.[168] In a February 4, 2026, NBC News interview, Trump indicated his administration could use a "softer touch" on immigration enforcement following the incident, while affirming the focus on deporting criminals as part of mass deportation efforts. He described positive talks with Minnesota Governor Tim Walz and Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey, who had criticized the crackdown and requested withdrawal of federal forces; subsequently, 700 agents were pulled from the state.[169][170]In March 2026, on March 23, during a press gaggle at Palm Beach International Airport in Florida before boarding Air Force One, President Trump engaged in a testy exchange with Newsmax White House correspondent Mike Carter. Carter attempted to question Trump about the deployment of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents to airports, but Trump interrupted, asked for his affiliation, and upon learning it was Newsmax, repeatedly declared "You're not doing a very good job," cutting off the question. Trump then called on CNN's Kaitlan Collins instead, commenting, "Can you believe it? I'm taking CNN over Newsmax. Can you believe it?" Later in the exchange, he pointed at Carter and remarked, "I don't think he's going to be at Newsmax long," implying possible job consequences. The incident highlighted Trump's irritation despite Newsmax's generally pro-Trump stance and drew widespread attention for the irony of favoring a question from CNN, a network he has frequently criticized. It was widely reported and became viral.
UFO and extraterrestrial topics
On February 19, 2026, President Trump directed federal agencies to identify and release government files related to unidentified flying objects (UFOs) and unidentified aerial phenomena (UAP).[171] Prior to his inauguration, during a June 13, 2024, interview on the Impaulsive podcast, Trump stated he would consider declassifying UFO/UAP documents if re-elected.[172] On February 18, 2026, Lara Trump stated that President Trump had prepared a speech on the topic of extraterrestrial life.[173][174]On March 17, 2026, the Trump administration registered the domains alien.gov and aliens.gov in preparation for the release of UFO and extraterrestrial information that President Trump had promised to declassify.[175][176]On September 30, 2026, UAP whistleblower David Grusch appeared on The Joe Rogan Experience and discussed Trump's UAP disclosure efforts. Grusch stated that he believed "before Trump’s term ends that it’s all going to come out," including recovered craft and reverse-engineering programs, and referenced Trump's declassification directives as well as comments from White House officials indicating forthcoming revelations.[177][178]
Government efficiency and other initiatives
On January 25, 2026, Trump approved 12 federal emergency disaster declarations for Arkansas, Georgia, Indiana, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia in response to severe weather—providing federal resources to affected areas.In early February 2026, President Donald Trump urged U.S. governors to adopt paper ballots, same-day voting, voter ID, and proof of citizenship requirements, stating these measures were needed to secure elections and prevent fraud.[179] Trump warned of potential election fraud risks in the 2026 midterm elections and urged Republicans to nationalize voting processes in at least 15 states with identified fraud issues, promising to present an "irrefutable" case for mandatory voter ID requirements and advocating passage of the SAVE Act to mandate proof of U.S. citizenship for voter registration to safeguard election integrity.[180] Critics of the proposals argued they could disenfranchise eligible voters and that documented noncitizen voting remains rare.[181][182]He pressured House Republicans to pass a spending bill to address a partial government shutdown. On or around the same period, the Senate voted to table (reject) Senator Mike Lee's amendments to eliminate earmarks in the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2026 (H.R. 7148), as part of passing a major government funding package to avert a partial shutdown; Trump endorsed and urged passage of the bipartisan funding deal but issued no public statement specifically reacting to the vote on Lee's amendments. Trump also declared a two-year closure and renovation of the Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts; the board later formalized the closure amid ongoing litigation over naming and governance.[183][184]On February 13, 2026, Trump issued pardons to five former NFL players—Joe Klecko, Nate Newton, Jamal Lewis, Travis Henry, and the late Billy Cannon—for convictions including perjury, drug trafficking, and counterfeiting.[185]During his State of the Union address on February 24, 2026, Trump stated, "the first duty of the American government is to protect American citizens, not illegal aliens," and called on lawmakers to stand in agreement. Republicans, led by Vice President JD Vance and House Speaker Mike Johnson, stood, while Democrats remained seated. Trump criticized the Democrats for remaining seated, saying they should be ashamed. The exchange drew mixed reactions, with some Republicans describing the Democrats’ response as prioritizing non-citizens and some Democrats criticizing the framing and the administration’s immigration record.[186][187][188]On March 7, 2026, President Trump delivered remarks at the Shield of the Americas Summit in Doral, Florida.[189] On March 9, 2026, he made a brief public stop at a local restaurant in Doral.[190] On March 18, 2026, Trump posted on Truth Social that "Britain had meltdown when China hacked voter files, but U.S. intel kept it secret in America," linking to a Just the News article reporting that U.S. intelligence agencies had known since 2020 of China's access to American voter registration files.[191][192] The linked article's claims have been disputed by subsequent independent reporting and prior intelligence assessments.[193][194]Trump has repeatedly called for the Department of Justice to pursue and for Congress to expand the federal death penalty to cover child rape and sexual offenses against children and human trafficking, while encouraging states to adopt similar measures. Legislation authorizing the death penalty for such offenses has been enacted in states including Florida and Tennessee, and introduced in others, but not in all 50 states. Federal expansion of capital punishment for these non-homicide offenses would require an act of Congress and would confront Supreme Court precedent from Kennedy v. Louisiana (2008) holding such penalties unconstitutional for child rape not resulting in death.[195][196][197]
Artificial intelligence
The second Trump administration emphasized U.S. leadership in artificial intelligence, beginning with a January 23, 2025, executive order that revoked the previous administration's AI safety regulations (EO 14110) and directed development of an action plan focused on accelerating innovation and reducing regulatory constraints.[198] In July 2025, the White House released Winning the Race: America’s AI Action Plan, which identified more than 90 federal actions to accelerate innovation, expand infrastructure such as data centers, and promote American AI exports, accompanied by executive orders on permitting, technology exports, and requirements that government-procured models be objective and free from top-down ideological bias, according to administration statements.[199]In November 2025, Trump launched the Genesis Mission, a Department of Energy initiative to build an integrated AI platform leveraging national laboratories and federal datasets to speed scientific breakthroughs, with more than $5 billion in federal commitments later announced for the initiative.[200][201] A December 2025 executive order established a national policy framework aimed at limiting conflicting state AI laws, directed the creation of a DOJ AI Litigation Task Force to challenge certain state measures, and called for legislation that would preempt some state rules, followed in March 2026 by a comprehensive legislative framework addressing child safety, intellectual property, and innovation.[202][203] First Lady Melania Trump initiated a Presidential AI Challenge for K-12 education (later rebranded the Presidential Super Intelligence Challenge).[204]On September 29, 2026, an executive order directed federal agencies, to the maximum extent permitted by law, to use the term "Super Intelligence" (or "SI") rather than "artificial intelligence" (or "AI") in official non-statutory materials.[205] On October 8, 2026, Trump posted on Truth Social that the White House considers anyone using the term "Artificial Intelligence" rather than "Super Intelligence" to be "THE ENEMY."[206] These measures were presented by the administration as necessary to maintain U.S. technological leadership and were welcomed by many industry advocates, while drawing criticism from some state officials, civil-liberties groups, and safety researchers concerned about reduced guardrails or federal overreach.[207][208]
Cryptocurrency
During his 2024 presidential campaign, Trump proposed eliminating capital gains taxes on certain U.S.-issued or U.S.-based cryptocurrencies to promote domestic production and everyday use. In an October 2024 interview, he stated: "No tax on crypto but only on tokens made in the USA," adding, "We want tokens made here at home; we don't want the Chinese tokens." Implementation of such a change would require legislation.[209]Following his election victory, Trump pledged to make the United States the "crypto capital of the world." On December 5, 2024, he posted on Truth Social: "CONGRATULATIONS BITCOINERS!!! $100,000!!! YOU’RE WELCOME!!! Together, we will Make America Great Again!"[210][211][212]Following the inauguration, the administration pursued these goals via executive actions including a ban on CBDC development,[213] creation of a Strategic Bitcoin Reserve under Executive Order 14233,[214][215] reduced civil and criminal enforcement activity against cryptocurrency firms, disbandment of the DOJ’s National Cryptocurrency Enforcement Team,[216] and enactment of the GENIUS Act establishing a federal framework for payment stablecoins.[217][218] These steps were praised by industry advocates as fulfilling campaign pledges and criticized by others as creating potential conflicts of interest or weakening investor protections.[219][220]The Trump family launched World Liberty Financial, a cryptocurrency platform focused on decentralized finance and stablecoins, which attracted significant foreign investment, including a $500 million stake sale to UAE-linked entities.[221][222] According to financial disclosures and contemporaneous reporting, the venture generated hundreds of millions in revenue for Trump family entities from token sales and related operations during the second term.[223][224] World Liberty Financial also pursued partnerships in Pakistan. In April 2025 it signed a letter of intent with the Pakistan Crypto Council to collaborate on blockchain innovation, stablecoin adoption and decentralized finance.[225] In January 2026 an affiliated entity signed a memorandum of understanding with Pakistani authorities to explore integrating the USD1 stablecoin into the country's cross-border payments system.[226] Critics, including former U.S. National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan, have argued that these and related family business dealings contributed to Trump "throwing the India relationship over the side," at a time of diplomatic strains that included the imposition of 50 percent tariffs on certain Indian goods.[227]
Foreign policy
During his second term, Trump has described his approach as "peace through strength" and referred to himself as the "President of Peace," claiming to have ended or de-escalated eight international conflicts within his first year.[228] The claimed conflicts included ceasefires and de-escalations between Israel-Hamas, Israel-Iran, Pakistan-India, Rwanda-DRC, Thailand-Cambodia, Armenia-Azerbaijan, Egypt-Ethiopia, and Serbia-Kosovo. Independent analyses indicated mixed results: some produced signed agreements or temporary halt (such as the August 2025 Armenia–Azerbaijan White House declaration), while others saw later violations, disputed or limited U.S. roles, or tensions that never constituted full-scale war (such as India–Pakistan, where India denied U.S. mediation, and Egypt–Ethiopia dam disputes). (see Fact-checking of statements by Donald Trump for details and fact-checks).[229][230]Trump has described himself as a "lifelong supporter" of Israel[231] and "the best friend Israel has ever had in the White House."[232] He has not publicly used the term "Zionist" about himself.[233] Policies included recognition of Jerusalem as Israel's capital, relocation of the U.S. embassy, recognition of sovereignty over the Golan Heights, and the Abraham Accords. Analysts attribute the approach to a mix of strategic interests, domestic political considerations (including evangelical support), and transactional diplomacy.[234]The second term continues an "America First" approach, as articulated in the 2025 National Security Strategy, which prioritizes U.S. interests, bilateral deals, and greater allied burden-sharing while expressing skepticism toward some multilateral institutions. The document describes the policy as "pragmatic without being ‘pragmatist,’ realistic without being ‘realist,’ principled without being ‘idealistic,’ muscular without being ‘hawkish,’ and restrained without being ‘dovish.’" Trump hosted more than 40 foreign leaders in 2025.[235] Analyses highlighted the strategy's emphasis on the Western Hemisphere and allied burden-sharing.[236]Trade policies build on prior tariffs to address imbalances—while maintaining pressure on allies for equitable burden-sharing in alliances like NATO.[237]At the June 2025 NATO summit in The Hague, President Trump pressed allies to increase defense spending. Allies committed to investing 5% of GDP annually by 2035 (at least 3.5% on core defense requirements and up to 1.5% on related security measures).[238][239][240] Trump publicly reaffirmed commitment to Article 5 while earlier comments had created uncertainty about its scope.[241][242] These actions prompted accelerated defense spending increases across NATO members and discussions on enhancing European strategic autonomy to reduce reliance on the U.S.In July 2025, President Trump stated that South Korea pays "very little" for U.S. military support and should pay for its own defense, proposing contributions up to $10 billion annually.[243] Separately, under a five-year Special Measures Agreement finalized in 2024, South Korea's contribution rose to 1.52 trillion won (approximately $1.13 billion) for 2026.[244] Cost-sharing Special Measures Agreements have been in place since 1991.In February 2026, Trump posted on Truth Social claiming his tariffs had reduced the U.S. trade deficit by 78%, referencing high tariffs exceeding 50% on many Chinese goods.[245] The figure corresponded to the drop from a record monthly deficit earlier in 2025, inflated by import stockpiling ahead of new tariffs, to a 16-year low of $29.4 billion in October 2025; the monthly deficit then widened, including to $70.3 billion in December 2025, and the 2025 merchandise trade deficit reached a record $1.2 trillion.[246][247] On February 10, 2026, he warned on Truth Social that increased trade links between Canada and China would lead to China "eating Canada alive," threatening U.S. tariffs on Canada in response.[248] In January 2026, Trump threatened to increase tariffs on South Korean imports, including automobiles, to 25%—due to delays in ratifying a prior trade deal.[249]On March 5, 2026, in an interview with Politico, President Trump predicted that Cuba's regime was "going to fall" due to U.S. pressure, including cutting off oil and financial support from Venezuela. He confirmed the administration was engaged in talks with Havana amid this strategy.[250] The following day, in a CNN interview with Dana Bash, Trump stated that "Cuba is going to fall pretty soon," citing U.S. pressure, sanctions, and economic challenges facing Havana, and said he would send Secretary of State Marco Rubio to handle negotiations.[251] Subsequent reporting through October 2026 described continued economic strain, stalled negotiations, and the government remaining in place.[252][253]
United Kingdom
Trump has described the late Queen Elizabeth II as a "grand and beautiful lady" with "nobody like her" following her death in 2022.[254][255][256] In remarks for a 2026 book by Susan Page, he called her "genius" for never speaking ill of anyone and avoiding controversy, saying she was "sort of the opposite of me" because she "didn't mix it up" and "literally never made a mistake" over decades.[257][258] A 2024 biography reported that the Queen privately found him "very rude"; Trump has stated they had a great relationship.[259][260][261]During his 2025 state visit to the UK, Trump greeted Catherine, Princess of Wales with "You're beautiful, so beautiful" and in his banquet speech described her as "so radiant, so healthy, and so beautiful."[262][263][264]Trump has criticized Prince Harry, Duke of Sussex and Meghan, Duchess of Sussex, calling Meghan "terrible" and describing Harry as "whipped" and "led around by the nose," adding that Harry has "enough problems with his wife."[265][266][267][268]
Iran
Prelude and statements (January–February 2026)
In his February 2026 State of the Union address, President Trump stated that Iran has "killed thousands of American service members" through roadside bombs supplied to militants, referring to historical attacks by Iranian-backed groups using improvised explosive devices against U.S. forces in Iraq and elsewhere.[269] Amid escalating tensions with Iran in the Middle East, President Trump stated that the U.S. was deploying a "big beautiful fleet" of ships to the region heading toward Iran to deter its nuclear program, while hoping military force would not be needed; the United States deployed a naval armada to the region in January 2026.[270]On February 19, 2026, Trump stated that he would likely decide within the next 10 days whether to strike Iran, allowing 10-15 days for negotiations on a nuclear deal; no final decision had been made as of February 20, 2026.[271] On February 20, 2026, President Donald Trump stated that Iran should negotiate for a fair and equitable agreement to avoid severe consequences, amid ongoing U.S.-Iran talks on nuclear issues and potential military action. On the same day, President Trump warned Iran that if they execute even one anti-government protester, they would be immediately targeted.[272][273]In a February 22, 2026, Axios article by Barak Ravid, Sen. Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.) stated that several people around President Trump are advising him not to bomb Iran, while Graham urged Trump to disregard this advice amid U.S. military preparations and ongoing nuclear talks.[274]
Launch of Operation Epic Fury (February 28, 2026)
On February 28, 2026, President Trump announced in a video on Truth Social that the U.S., alongside Israel, had initiated "major combat operations" in Iran. He stated the operations were to eliminate its nuclear and missile programs, destroy its navy, and target leadership. He urged Iranians to "take over your government" after the strikes, cited Iran's nuclear pursuits and past attacks as justification, and warned of possible U.S. casualties. A full Chinese translation of the speech is available on the U.S. State Department website.[275][276]On March 1, 2026, during an update on US military operations against Iran including strikes on Revolutionary Guards headquarters amid escalating conflict with potential for more US casualties, President Trump urged "Iranian patriots who yearn for freedom" to "seize this moment, to be brave, be bold, be heroic, and take back your country."[277] On the same day, President Trump held phone calls with Iraqi Kurdish leaders Masoud Barzani and Bafel Talabani to discuss the U.S.-Israel war with Iran and potential U.S. support for Kurdish forces amid the conflict.[278] In a TIME magazine interview, Trump acknowledged the risk of retaliatory attacks on the US homeland in the ongoing war with Iran, advising Americans to prepare for potential casualties and stating that "some people will die" because "when you go to war, some people will die."[279]On March 2, 2026, President Trump stated that the U.S. military operation against Iran is projected to last 4 to 5 weeks but could go far longer; he did not specify a duration until 2026.[280]On April 1, 2026, President Trump delivered an address to the nation on United States military operations in Iran, describing them as Operation Epic Fury.[281]Following the U.S.-Israeli strikes on February 28, 2026, which targeted Iranian leadership, subsequent reports stated that Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei was killed. Iranian state media confirmed the killing, describing it as martyrdom, and announced a 40-day mourning period and seven days of public holidays. Iranian media, citing the Red Crescent, reported at least 201 people killed in the initial strikes across 24 provinces, including at least 108 at a girls' elementary school in Minab.[282] On March 8, 2026, Iranian sources announced that his son Mojtaba Khamenei had been selected as the new Supreme Leader.On March 13, 2026, Trump stated that U.S. Central Command had "totally obliterated every MILITARY target" on Kharg Island, Iran's primary oil export terminal, while sparing oil infrastructure, and threatened to strike it if Iran interfered with Strait of Hormuz shipping.[283] In an NBC News interview, Trump stated that Iran wanted to make a deal but "the terms aren't good enough yet," questioned whether new Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei was even alive because "nobody's been able to show him," and said U.S. strikes had "totally demolished" much of the island and the military "may hit it a few more times just for fun."[284] He later told PBS News Hour that he would "knock the hell out of it."[285]On March 14, 2026, Trump posted on Truth Social that many countries, especially those affected by Iran's attempted closure of the Strait of Hormuz, would send warships in conjunction with the United States to keep the strait open and safe, and that he hoped China, France, Japan, South Korea, the United Kingdom, and others would dispatch ships amid the blockade and concerns over oil-price surges.[286]On March 16, 2026, during remarks at a White House meeting of the Kennedy Center board of trustees, Trump provided an update on the US-Iran war (then in its 16th day), reporting that U.S. forces had struck more than 7,000 targets, achieving a 90% reduction in Iranian ballistic missile launches and a 95% reduction in drone attacks, and that more than 100 Iranian naval vessels had been sunk or destroyed. He urged other nations, including China and NATO allies, to help reopen and secure the Strait of Hormuz and indicated the conflict would not last long.[287] Trump also stated that commercial ships should "show some guts" and transit the strait despite Iranian threats.[288] China rejected the call to send warships, with its Foreign Ministry instead urging all sides to immediately cease military actions.[289]On March 20, 2026, Trump posted on Truth Social: "We are getting very close to meeting our objectives as we consider winding down our great Military efforts in the Middle East with respect to the Terrorist Regime of Iran: (1) Completely degrading Iranian Missile Capability, Launchers, and everything else pertaining to them. (2) Destroying Iran’s Defense Industrial Base. (3) Eliminating their Navy and Air Force, including Anti Aircraft Weaponry. (4) Never allowing Iran to get even close to Nuclear Capability, and always being in a position where the U.S.A. can quickly and powerfully react to such a situation, should it take place. (5) Protecting, at the highest level, our Middle Eastern Allies, including Israel, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, Kuwait, and others. The Hormuz Strait will have to be guarded and policed, as necessary, by other Nations who use it — The United States does not! If asked, we will help these Countries in their Hormuz efforts, but it shouldn’t be necessary once Iran’s threat is eradicated. Importantly, it will be an easy Military Operation for them. Thank you for your attention to this matter! President DONALD J. TRUMP" The post outlined objectives of degrading Iranian missile capabilities, destroying its defense industrial base, eliminating its navy and air force, preventing nuclear capability, and protecting Middle Eastern allies, amid continued strikes and U.S. troop deployments.[290][291][292]On March 23–24, 2026, Trump stated that the United States and Iran had held "very good and productive conversations regarding a complete and total resolution of our hostilities in the Middle East," with "major points of agreement," and postponed planned strikes on Iranian power plants and energy infrastructure for five days. Iranian officials dismissed the claims as "fake news" and denied that negotiations had taken place.[293][294][295]On or around March 25–26, 2026, during a speech at the National Republican Congressional Committee (NRCC) fundraising dinner, President Trump claimed that Iranian negotiators, reluctant to assume the Supreme Leader position due to the risks from the conflict, had informally floated the idea of appointing him as the successor. He said he rejected the notion, stating, "No, thank you. I don't want it." Trump framed the anecdote as evidence that "nobody wants that job" and that the U.S. was dominating the conflict. The claim remains unsubstantiated, with no confirmation from official Iranian sources or credible reports. It drew sarcasm and disbelief online, contributing to its viral spread, and aligns with Trump's pattern of hyperbolic statements portraying himself as highly influential in international affairs.
The conflict contributed to domestic economic pressures, particularly a surge in gasoline prices to around $4 per gallon, which fueled public discontent and contributed to record lows in Trump's economic approval ratings by late March 2026 (e.g., 29% approval in Reuters/Ipsos polling).[296] In early March 2026, Trump commented on the rising oil and gasoline prices, describing them as a "small price to pay" for "Safety and Peace," stating he had "no concern" about them, and remarking "if they rise, they rise," while predicting they would "drop very rapidly when this is over."[297][298]
Iranian officials claimed that U.S. troops had been captured, a claim denied by U.S. Central Command.[299]
The disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz contributed to the surge in gasoline prices. President Trump called for military action to reopen the strait, but French President Emmanuel Macron rejected the proposal, describing the risks as unacceptable and advocating for diplomatic coordination with Iran instead.In March 2026, Trump announced he had asked about seven countries to join a naval coalition to secure the Strait of Hormuz amid tensions with Iran. He warned NATO allies of a "very bad future" if they do not contribute warships to reopen the strait, pressing Europe for support. Germany responded that securing the strait is "not NATO's war." Trump urged South Korea and other allies reliant on oil imports through the strait (including Japan, China, the United Kingdom, and France) to provide naval support for escorting tankers.[300][301][302]On March 17, 2026, after NATO allies declined involvement in reopening the Strait of Hormuz, Trump posted on Truth Social: "Because of the fact that we have had such Military Success, we no longer 'need,' or desire, the NATO Countries' assistance — WE NEVER DID! WE DO NOT NEED THE HELP OF ANYONE!"[303][304]On the same day, speaking from the Oval Office, Trump likened the confrontation with Iran to "a big chess game at a very high level" and described Iranian leaders as "very smart people" and "very high IQ people."[305]On March 18, 2026, Trump posted on Truth Social that Israel had attacked Iran's South Pars gas field without U.S. or Qatari involvement, describing the action as Israel having "violently lashed out" out of anger over Middle East events and hitting a relatively small section of the field. He noted Iran's subsequent retaliatory attack on Qatar's LNG facility, which he called unjustifiable and unfair, and stated that Israel would make no further attacks on the field unless Iran attacked Qatar again, in which case the United States would "massively blow up the entirety of the South Pars Gas Field".[306][307]On March 19, 2026, during an Oval Office meeting with Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi, Trump defended the decision not to notify allies in advance of the February 28 strikes on Iran by stating, "We wanted surprise. Who knows better about surprise than Japan? Why didn't you tell me about Pearl Harbor?" The remark elicited laughter from some U.S. officials and journalists but caused surprise, embarrassment, and unease in Japan.[308][309]During the same meeting, Trump stated that he had told Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu "don't do that" in response to Israel's bombing of Iranian natural gas fields at South Pars, which caused oil market disruptions, and indicated that such actions would not be repeated, highlighting differences in U.S. and Israeli strategies.[310][311]When asked if he wanted South Korea's help securing the Strait of Hormuz, Trump replied, "I love South Korea. We have a great relationship with South Korea where we're helping South Korea a lot."[312]On March 21, 2026, at approximately 23:44 UTC, Trump posted on Truth Social that if Iran did not "FULLY OPEN, WITHOUT THREAT, the Strait of Hormuz" within 48 hours, the United States would "hit and obliterate their various POWER PLANTS, STARTING WITH THE BIGGEST ONE FIRST." He subsequently announced postponements of the threatened strikes.[313][314][315]
Despite White House claims of a ceasefire, oil transits through the Strait of Hormuz remained at zero due to lingering threats and Iranian unreliability, keeping global supply risks active. However, China is uniquely positioned to absorb this disruption thanks to its massive strategic petroleum reserves and diversified supply routes, transforming the blockade into a manageable economic challenge and providing Beijing with diplomatic leverage to advocate for de-escalation while preserving its relations with Iran.[316][317][318][319]
In retaliation for the U.S.-Israeli strikes on February 28, 2026, Iran closed the Strait of Hormuz in February 2026, disrupting 5–7 million barrels per day of oil transit and causing a sharp spike in global oil prices.In April 2026, the U.S. Navy implemented a targeted blockade of the strait under President Trump's orders. The blockade interdicted only vessels exporting Iranian oil or paying Iranian tolls, while permitting other compliant maritime traffic to pass freely. This limited approach aimed to exert economic pressure on Iran without completely halting global shipping through the critical chokepoint.Shortly after the blockade began, a U.S.-sanctioned Chinese tanker successfully transited the Strait of Hormuz unimpeded. The passage prompted online questions about the strength of U.S. enforcement; however, tracking data confirmed the vessel originated from Saudi Arabia, carried no Iranian exports, and paid no Iranian fees, making its transit fully compliant with the blockade's parameters.[320][321][322]In mid-April 2026, Pakistan mediated indirect backchannel talks between the United States and Iran concerning Iran's nuclear program and related sanctions. The first round of negotiations failed to produce an agreement, while a second round remained pending.[323][324]A proposed arrangement involved the United States unfreezing approximately $20 billion in frozen Iranian assets in exchange for Iran transferring its stockpile of enriched uranium, including 450 kg enriched to 60% purity.[325]Significant divides persisted over the scope of any deal: the United States demanded a comprehensive pact that would achieve zero enrichment, dismantle nuclear facilities, restrict missile programs, and address Iran's support for proxy forces, whereas Iran insisted on restricting discussions to nuclear matters only. Disputes also centered on the precise value of the unfrozen assets.The United States maintained leverage through its targeted blockade of Iranian ports and threats of further sanctions, while Iran ensured continued commercial access through the Strait of Hormuz. As of late April 2026, both sides retained active leverage with no breakthrough achieved, and further developments were anticipated as critical.[326]
In late April 2026, following a ceasefire on April 8, traffic through the Strait of Hormuz began to recover after Iran announced reopening around April 16-17. Ship transits increased marginally to 11-20 vessels per day, though remaining more than 95% below pre-conflict baselines of approximately 100-130 vessels daily. The partial reopening contributed to a 9-12% decline in oil prices, with WTI crude falling to $83.85, and propelled the S&P 500 index above 7,000. Prediction markets assigned an 87% probability to full normalization of traffic by the end of June 2026, catalyzed by the ceasefire and reopening, despite persistent challenges including the U.S. partial blockade, mines affecting two-thirds of the strait, insurance and coordination difficulties, and exclusions of adversarial vessels.[327][328][329][330]
In May 2026, President Trump criticized Pope Leo XIV over his opposition to the U.S.-Israeli military operations in Iran, stating that the Pope "thinks it's fine for Iran to have a nuclear weapon" and is "endangering a lot of Catholics and a lot of people."[331][332] The comments came ahead of a planned meeting between U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and the Pope. Vatican Secretary of State Cardinal Pietro Parolin stated that the Pope would "keep going on his path" of preaching peace.[333]In August 2026, the Trump administration launched Operation Economic Outcast, referred to by officials as "Economic D-Day," an economic isolation campaign against Iran targeting remaining revenue streams from oil shipping, banking, military procurement, digital assets, gold, aviation, and technology through expanded secondary sanctions and designations of entities, individuals, and vessels.[334][335] On October 8, 2026, the Treasury Department sanctioned 17 additional shadow-fleet vessels involved in transporting Iranian petroleum and petrochemical products, describing the action as neutralizing the vast majority of Iran's remaining illicit maritime network.[336] Commentators identified China, the largest buyer of Iranian oil, as a key potential obstacle, noting that without its cooperation or sanctions against Chinese financial institutions the campaign's impact could be limited, while such measures risked escalating into wider economic conflict.[337] Treasury characterizations of the networks as neutralized represent the administration's assessment and have not been independently confirmed.
China
In March 2026, Chinese researchers at the Institute of Mechanics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, reported software that performed high-fidelity scramjet simulations in approximately one week rather than years.[338][339]Separate open-source reporting described Chinese modeling of attacks on U.S. military assets, including aircraft carriers and systems relevant to Taiwan scenarios.[340][341]Congressional investigations in late 2025 documented extensive Department of Energy-funded research collaborations with Chinese entities linked to the military-industrial complex and raised concerns about Chinese institutional access to U.S. supercomputing resources.[342][343][344][345]These reports coincided with continued U.S. measures such as tariffs on Chinese goods and support for Taiwan's defense. In February 2026, President Trump announced he would decide soon on sending additional weapons to Taiwan, despite warnings from China.[346]In late September 2026, after Chinese President Xi Jinping's state visit to Washington, U.S. Ambassador to China David Perdue stated on Fox News that President Trump had asked Xi whether China would like to buy U.S. weapons, in the context of discussions on U.S. arms sales to Taiwan and worldwide. Trump disputed the account, saying he had "never heard of that one" and would need to speak with Perdue, while suggesting Perdue may have been referring to Taiwan and that such a sale "maybe it's a good idea" given the superiority of U.S. equipment, though they had not discussed it. U.S. officials stated that Washington had no plans to sell weapons to China (noting it would be legally impossible), and the State Department confirmed that U.S. law prohibits arms sales to China with no offer or plan to do so. Beijing declined to comment, with a Foreign Ministry spokesman stating that China strengthens its defense capabilities based on its needs and is committed to maintaining world peace and stability.[347][348][349][350]
Public approval
Trump's second-term approval ratings moved from the mid-to-high 40s in early 2025 into the high 30s–low 40s by early 2026.[351][352][353] In early February 2026, an NPR/PBS News/Marist poll recorded President Donald Trump's approval rating at 39% overall, with 85% among Republicans.[354] By mid-February, multiple polls placed overall approval below 40%.[355]During his second term, Trump's job approval ratings fluctuated, with Gallup recording 36% in November 2025.[356] By March 2026, amid the beginning of conflict in Iran, RealClearPolitics averages stood around 41% approve and 57% disapprove,[357] and Nate Silver's average showed a net of –16.7 on March 26, 2026, among the lower marks of the second term to that date.[358] Polling aggregators indicated these figures were lower than those of most post-World War II presidents at a comparable point in their terms.[359]A Reuters/Ipsos poll published on April 21, 2026, found that 36% of Americans approved of the U.S. military strikes on Iran, similar to 35% in a previous poll from April 10–12, and that 36% approved of his overall job performance. The poll found that 26% of respondents considered Trump even-tempered.[360][361][362][363]President Trump addressed aspects of the Iran situation through various social media posts.[364]
Legal affairs
Business-related lawsuits
In 1973, the U.S. Department of Justice sued Trump Management Corporation for alleged violations of the Fair Housing Act involving systematic discrimination against Black tenants. Settled by consent decree in 1975 without admission of guilt, it required nondiscriminatory practices and periodic DOJ reporting.[365][366]Trump's companies filed Chapter 11 bankruptcy in the 1990s and 2004, involving creditor litigation over asset valuations, debt renegotiations, and equity dilutions; Trump relinquished significant stakes but avoided personal bankruptcy.[367]Trump University, a 2005 for-profit real estate seminar, faced class-action fraud suits over misleading marketing. In 2016, Trump settled three cases for $25 million without admitting liability, distributing funds to students.[368][369][370]During his presidency, emoluments clause lawsuits alleged violations from foreign government spending at Trump properties. Courts dismissed cases post-office on standing or mootness grounds.[371]In February 2021 after the January 6 Capitol attack, JPMorgan Chase closed accounts of Trump and affiliates, termed debanking. A February 2026 filing by the bank confirmed it closed the accounts of Trump and affiliates in February 2021; Trump has characterized the action as politicized "debanking" that disrupted operations and sued the bank for $5 billion in January 2026. The bank has denied a political motive.[372][373][374]
Lawsuit against Bill Maher (2013)
On January 7, 2013, comedian Bill Maher, appearing on NBC's The Tonight Show with Jay Leno, challenged Donald Trump—in a parody of Trump’s public $5 million offers of money for President Barack Obama’s college and related records—to prove he was not "the spawn of his mother having sex with an orangutan," citing the matching color of Trump's hair and orangutan fur, and offered $5 million to a charity of Trump's choice if Trump provided proof via birth certificate. Maher subsequently characterized the offer as a joke and parody.[375] Trump’s counsel formally accepted the offer in writing on January 8, 2013, enclosed a copy of Trump’s New York birth certificate (listing father Fred Trump), and demanded payment; when no payment followed, Trump filed a $5 million breach-of-contract lawsuit against Maher in Los Angeles Superior Court on February 4, 2013.[376] The suit claimed Maher's televised statement created an enforceable contract. Trump stated that he did not think Maher was joking, asserting that Maher "said it with venom."[377] Legal experts deemed the case unlikely to succeed, viewing the offer as obvious satire.[378][379] Trump withdrew the lawsuit without prejudice on April 1, 2013, with representatives stating it could be refiled if amended, though it was not pursued further.[380][381] The episode received widespread media coverage.
E. Jean Carroll lawsuits
Carroll filed two distinct civil lawsuits against Trump over her allegation of a mid-1990s sexual assault. The first, in November 2019, claimed defamation based on Trump's 2019 denials.[382] The second, in November 2022, claimed battery under New York's Adult Survivors Act and defamation based on his 2022 statements.[383] In May 2023 a New York federal jury found Trump liable for sexual abuse and defamation of writer E. Jean Carroll (but not for rape) and awarded her $5 million.[6] In a separate 2024 trial, a second jury awarded Carroll $83.3 million for defamation arising from statements Trump made in 2019 about her allegations.[384] Trump has consistently denied the allegations.[385] Both cases were civil actions decided under a preponderance-of-the-evidence standard.[386] The U.S. Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit affirmed the $5 million judgment in December 2024.[387] The Supreme Court declined to hear Trump’s appeal of the first verdict on June 29, 2026,[388][389] and denied a petition for rehearing on August 17, 2026.[390] Appeals concerning the $83.3 million judgment continued separately.[390]
Lawsuit against the BBC
In December 2025 Trump filed a $10 billion defamation lawsuit against the BBC in a Florida federal court over the editing of a 2024 Panorama documentary about the January 6, 2021, Capitol riot, which he alleged created the impression that he had encouraged supporters to storm the Capitol. The programme drew criticism, leading then-BBC director-general Tim Davie to resign; BBC chairman Samir Shah later apologised for an “error of judgment” and accepted that the editing gave “the impression of a direct call for violent action.” The BBC has sought to have the case dismissed, warning of a “chilling effect” on robust reporting and challenging the Florida court’s jurisdiction because the programme was never aired in the United States. In October 2026 U.S. Magistrate Judge Enjoliqué Lett ordered Trump to sit for a deposition by 11 December 2026 or risk dismissal of the lawsuit, after the BBC complained of delays that included cancellation of a previously agreed 16 October date.[391]
Civil fraud lawsuit by New York Attorney General (2022–present)
In September 2022, New York Attorney General Letitia James filed a civil lawsuit against The Trump Organization, Donald Trump, Donald Trump Jr., Eric Trump, and other top executives, accusing them of systematically overvaluing real estate in annual Statements of Financial Condition (SFCs) from 2011 to 2021.[392]The complaint and the trial court cited examples including overstating the triplex in Trump Tower by three times in area; valuing Mar-a-Lago at $426–612 million while the tax assessment was $18–27.6 million (overvaluation of at least 2,300%); and overstating 40 Wall Street by approximately $200 million.[393] Defendants contested the valuations, arguing that the statements were not intended as formal appraisals and that lenders conducted their own due diligence.[394]In February 2024, Justice Arthur Engoron found the defendants liable for fraud under New York Executive Law § 63(12) and ordered approximately $355 million in disgorgement, which with prejudgment interest exceeded $450 million by the time of the appeal; Trump posted a $175 million bond to stay enforcement.[395][396][397]In a divided August 21, 2025 decision, the Appellate Division, First Department, affirmed the finding of liability and the injunctive relief while vacating the disgorgement award as an excessive fine under the Eighth Amendment.[398] Two judges would have ordered a new trial and one would have dismissed the action; the panel coalesced on the monetary-penalty result to create a final order appealable to the Court of Appeals. The Attorney General appealed to the New York Court of Appeals.[399] As of April 2026 the monetary penalty remained vacated. Both the Attorney General and the Trump defendants sought further review in the New York Court of Appeals; the case remained pending.[400]
Post-presidency indictments
After leaving office in January 2021, Trump became the first former U.S. president to face federal criminal indictment.[401] He faced four sets of criminal charges filed in 2023 while he was a candidate in the 2024 presidential election.[402]In June 2023, a federal grand jury in the Southern District of Florida indicted him on 37 (later 40) felony counts related to the alleged willful retention of national defense information and obstruction of the government’s efforts to recover the materials at Mar-a-Lago; special counsel Jack Smith prosecuted.[403][404] Judge Aileen Cannon dismissed the indictment on July 15, 2024, ruling that Special Counsel Jack Smith’s appointment was unconstitutional.[405] After Trump’s 2024 election victory the Department of Justice moved to dismiss the remaining appeal against him, consistent with long-standing policy against prosecuting a sitting president.[406]An August 2023 federal indictment alleged four felonies, including conspiracy to defraud the United States, obstructing an official proceeding, and related offenses arising from efforts to reverse the 2020 election results and the January 6, 2021, Capitol certification.[407] Trump pleaded not guilty; post-Supreme Court immunity ruling in Trump v. United States (July 1, 2024), the case proceeded briefly then dismissed without prejudice in November 2024 per DOJ policy on sitting presidents.[9]In Georgia, an August 2023 state indictment charged Trump and 18 others with racketeering related to communications with state officials over the 2020 election results, including a recorded January 2021 telephone call with Georgia Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger in which Trump urged the official to "find" sufficient votes to overturn the state's results.[408].[409] Trump pleaded not guilty to 13 counts; led by DA Fani Willis, the case was dismissed in November 2025 after Willis was disqualified and a successor declined to pursue the charges.[410][10]In New York state court, a New York jury convicted him on May 30, 2024, of 34 felony counts of falsifying business records in the first degree, related to reimbursements for a payment made to adult-film actress Stormy Daniels before the 2016 election[411]; Judge Juan Merchan presided over unanimous jury verdict. Sentenced January 10, 2025, to unconditional discharge;[412] Trump appealed, citing presidential immunity and bias.Trump described the indictments as politically motivated "witch hunts." The New York conviction remains on appeal; the other three cases were dismissed.
Public image
Trump has used mail-in ballots, including in Florida's 2020 primary[413] and in March 2026 for the special election for Florida House District 87 in Palm Beach County, where election records show it was received and counted. He has criticized expanded mail-in voting as prone to fraud and supported related legislative restrictions, consistent with his prior statements on the topic, as reiterated at a Memphis event in March 2026.[414][415][416][417]
Perceptions of Trump's media engagement vary. Supporters and some analysts describe his use of direct platforms (Twitter/X, Truth Social) that bypass traditional gatekeepers as generating constant visibility and sustaining base loyalty by reframing controversies as "witch hunts" or "fake news," despite legal challenges.[418] Critics characterize the same approach as reactive and sometimes alienating to swing voters. Opponents have cited events such as maskless gatherings at Mar-a-Lago during COVID-19 restrictions[419][420] and a 2025 Gatsby-themed Halloween party[421][422] held hours before potential SNAP-benefit disruptions affecting millions as contrasts to his "fighter for the little guy" narrative.
Rhetoric and style
Trump's rhetorical style features frequent use of superlatives like "the best," "tremendous," and "huge"—alongside repetition of key phrases to reinforce messages—and simple, conversational language that avoids complex vocabulary, making his speeches accessible to broad audiences and enhancing memorability. This approach, often described as hyperbolic and emphatic, draws from his background in sales and media, prioritizing emotional appeal over detailed policy exposition and fostering a direct connection with listeners.[423][424][425][426]Trump's unscripted and improvisational delivery, while contributing to a direct conversational tone, has at times included anachronisms and factual inaccuracies. During a July 4, 2019, “Salute to America” address at the Lincoln Memorial, Trump stated that the Continental Army “manned the air, it rammed the ramparts, it took over the airports,” an anachronism given that powered flight and airports did not exist until the 20th century; the same passage also referenced the War of 1812 Battle of Fort McHenry. Trump later attributed the remarks to a rain-induced teleprompter malfunction.[427][428] Other instances include a June 5, 2025, joke during a meeting with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz that D-Day "was not a pleasant day" for Germany; a February 2026 joke on a call with the U.S. men's Olympic hockey team that he "probably would be impeached" if the women's gold-medal-winning team were not invited to the White House (a remark some characterized as mocking, after which the women's team declined the invitation citing scheduling conflicts); and a March 3, 2026, statement that his father "was born there" in Germany, though Fred Trump was born in the Bronx, New York, in 1905.[429][430][431][432][433][434][435][436]Quantitative analyses of presidential discourse have found that Trump's sentences average shorter lengths (around 10–14 words versus 17–24 for other recent presidents) with higher rates of personal pronouns, fostering a direct, conversational tone.[425][424][423][437]In May 2026, Trump posted on Truth Social an AI-generated cartoon of himself, Joe Biden, and Barack Obama in which Obama is shown bowing to Saudi King Abdullah with the caption “Traitors Bow,” appearing to accuse the former president of treason.[438]He heavily relied on Twitter (now X) as a primary communication tool, amassing approximately 88 million followers by 2021 before his account suspension following the January 6 Capitol riot. Prior to the account suspension, X had provided Trump with unfiltered, rapid dissemination of messages bypassing traditional media gatekeepers—enabling short, punchy statements that often dominated news cycles and mobilized supporters directly. Following the suspension, Trump launched Truth Social in 2022 as an alternative platform for direct, unfiltered communication with supporters. In November 2022, Elon Musk reinstated Trump's X account, though Trump has primarily continued using Truth Social for his messaging.Trump's rallies employed a theatrical format with extended durations, audience call-and-response interactions, and improvisational elements. Supporters participated through chants and cheers in an energetic atmosphere of direct engagement. Analysts have noted that these events contrasted with conventional political speeches by emphasizing spectacle and personal narrative over scripted formality and that they reinforced loyalty and communal identity.[439][440]His relations with the press were marked by repeated accusations of "fake news" against outlets reporting critically. Trump's framing of the media as biased opponents rather than neutral observers resonated with his base's distrust of institutions and shifted public discourse toward skepticism of mainstream journalism. This adversarial stance included barring certain reporters and using rallies to publicly challenge coverage in real time.Trump is known for preferring black Sharpie permanent markers for signing executive orders, legislation, autographs, and other documents, a habit he has maintained since at least his first presidency.[441][442] According to Trump, he switched to Sharpies after finding government-issued ballpoint pens—which he said sometimes cost up to $1,000 each—unreliable, often failing to write properly or lacking ink, despite their high cost.[443] Trump has described Sharpies as inexpensive (around $5), reliable, and effective for bold signatures. He stated that he contacted the company to produce custom versions, typically black with gold accents featuring the White House logo and his signature, and that he insisted on paying for them despite offers of no charge.[444] During his second presidency, in a March 26, 2026 cabinet meeting amid discussions of the Iran conflict, economic issues, and government spending, Trump held up a custom Sharpie and delivered an extended anecdote praising the switch as an example of eliminating waste, contrasting it with extravagant federal expenditures like Federal Reserve building renovations.[445][446][447]
Influence on conservatism
Trump's political positions emphasized economic nationalism and immigration restrictions, diverging from the dominant post-Cold War Reagan-Bush consensus on free trade and global interventionism while echoing earlier paleoconservative, Buchananite, and pre-World War II strands of protectionism and non-interventionism.[448][449] These "America First" policies appealed to working-class voters who expressed disillusionment with establishment approaches.[450][451]The formation of the MAGA (Make America Great Again) base under Trump's influence involved grassroots mobilization that affected Republican primaries, often prioritizing candidates aligned with his views over traditional party elites.[452] His endorsements correlated with high rates of success in GOP contests, associated with high turnout from this coalition.[453][454]On policy, initiatives including tariffs on China and the renegotiation of trade agreements into the USMCA advanced economic nationalism and trade protectionism (framed by supporters as fair trade and America First policies), which continued to shape discussions on globalization in conservative circles.[455][456]By the mid-2020s, America First positions had become the dominant orientation within the Republican Party.[457] The 2024 party platform emphasized sealing the border, large-scale deportations, tariffs to halt outsourcing, and a manufacturing revival while omitting earlier calls to reduce the national debt.[458] Trump-endorsed candidates won 93 percent of Republican primaries in 2022 and 96 percent in 2024.[459] Pew surveys found about 70 percent of Republicans approving increased tariffs and 86 percent supporting expanded deportations.[460][461]Criticism from figures associated with traditional conservatism highlighted perceived departures from fiscal restraint and commitments to international alliances, resulting in intra-party divisions.[462] Examples include Liz Cheney and Mitt Romney, who opposed aspects of the shift and described it as demagogic.[463][464] Proponents characterized the changes as an update of conservatism to address working-class concerns over trade, immigration, and globalization rather than a rupture from prior principles. Cheney lost her 2022 House primary to a Trump-endorsed challenger by more than 30 percentage points; Romney retired after the 2024 election and stated that MAGA now defined the Republican Party.[465][466] Internal criticism persisted even as the new orientation achieved electoral dominance and some other figures adapted or were displaced.[467]
Eschatological interpretations
Independent prophecy authors Kelly Smith (The First Horseman) and Leo Respinger (Donald Trump: God's Restrainer on the White Horse) have claimed that Donald Trump is the rider on the white horse in Revelation 6:2 and portrayed him as God's restrainer or a conquering figure.[468][469] Other commentators have identified him as the Antichrist associated with false conquest and deception.[470][471] These identifications are speculative and highly contested even among prophecy-oriented Christians; they are not accepted in mainstream Christian theology.[472][470] Standard interpretations of the rider, from early church commentators onward, identify it as Christ or the gospel's advance, a personification of conquest in general, or (in futurist views) a deceptive Antichrist or false-peace figure, without reference to any specific modern politician.[473][474]Certain commentators have highlighted that Donald Trump (born June 14, 1946, the date of a total lunar eclipse[475]), Benjamin Netanyahu (born October 21, 1949, the date of a partial solar eclipse[476]), and Ayatollah Ali Khamenei (born April 19, 1939, the date of an annular solar eclipse[477]) share birth dates coinciding with eclipses. These commentators view the alignments as potential signs of prophetic significance in end-times narratives.[478][479] Eclipse-date births occur several times per year and are therefore uncommon but not unique; any attributed prophetic significance is a theological interpretation rather than an empirical finding.
Claims of dictatorship
Some political opponents, media commentators, and academics have described Donald Trump as a dictator or aspiring dictator,[480] citing a December 2022 Truth Social post stating that alleged 2020 election fraud “allows for the termination of all rules, regulations, and articles, even those found in the Constitution”[481] and December 2023 remarks that he would be a “dictator” only on “day one” to close the border and expand drilling (later described by Trump as sarcastic).[482] In his second term they have also pointed to the firing of multiple inspectors general without the required congressional notice,[483] extensive use of emergency powers and executive orders, National Guard deployments, and actions targeting critics and independent institutions.In October 2024, The Atlantic reported that during a private conversation in the White House around 2020, Trump said, "I need the kind of generals that Hitler had," specifying "People who were totally loyal to him, that follow orders," according to two people who heard the remark. Former chief of staff John Kelly stated in interviews that Trump had referred to wanting Hitler's generals and had privately remarked that Hitler did "some good things," including the rebuilding of Germany's economy. Trump and his campaign denied the claims as "absolutely false," with spokespeople asserting he never made such statements.[484][485][486]
These characterizations have been disputed by Trump, his supporters, and some analysts, who contend that he was democratically elected in 2024 for a non-consecutive second term, continues to operate within constitutional checks and balances (including congressional oversight, judicial review that has blocked or limited some executive actions,[487] and regular elections), and has not suspended the Constitution, canceled elections, or assumed power outside the legal and electoral system. Trump has rejected the label, stating “I’m not a dictator.”[488]