President Donald Trump is making bold moves as he returns to the White House, leveraging his lifetime of experience in bending limits to assert an expansive view of his authority. He has issued a series of executive orders aimed at tightening border security, challenging birthright citizenship, and keeping TikTok operational despite legal obstacles.
Opposition from Democrats and civil rights groups is mounting, leading to potential legal battles that could slow down Trump's agenda. With fewer constraints in his second term, Trump is reshaping the presidency by emphasizing the use of executive power in a system built on checks and balances.
Supported by a conservative Supreme Court and a Republican-controlled Congress, Trump faces minimal resistance within his party. His recent decision to pardon individuals involved in the Capitol riot went largely unchallenged by Republicans.
Trump's aggressive approach is not surprising to those familiar with his business background, where leverage often trumped compromise. Legal experts note the unprecedented scope and number of Trump's executive orders, which could have significant immediate impacts despite their potential reversibility.
Challenges to Trump's actions are already underway, with nearly two dozen states suing over his attempt to limit birthright citizenship. Critics argue that Trump's actions exceed presidential authority and set a dangerous precedent for future administrations.
While presidential power struggles are not uncommon, Trump's willingness to push boundaries further than his predecessors is notable. His tactics mirror his business strategies, where demanding more was the norm.
The coming months will test Trump's ability to maintain party unity in Congress, with some Republicans expressing reservations about certain executive orders. Democrats remain critical of Trump's actions, ranging from unconstitutional measures to what they deem as absurd decisions.
The balance of power between the White House and Congress hangs in the balance, as lawmakers grapple with the implications of Trump's assertive leadership style.