Trump’s Ambitious Plans and the Looming Political Reality
In late 2025, Donald Trump demolished parts of the White House to build an enormous ballroom, symbolizing a presidency that began as a political demolition derby. As Trump, now 79, enters his second year of his second term, he aims to create a lasting legacy. However, politics, much like his remodeling projects, will require significant effort in 2026.
Trump’s Accomplishments and Controversies
During his first 100 days, Trump issued a series of executive orders to dismantle the government and dismiss federal employees, with the help of tech mogul Elon Musk. The relationship between the two deteriorated, leading to a series of actions targeting immigrants, deploying troops to Democratic-led cities, attacking political enemies, and using legal threats against businesses, universities, and media outlets.
- Imposed tariffs causing economic confusion worldwide
- Held summits with authoritarian leaders of Russia and China
- Fluctuated on Ukraine, famously ambushing President Volodymyr Zelensky in the Oval Office
- Achieved fragile peace in Gaza but tensions rose near Venezuela with a US Navy deployment off its coast
Trump’s Continued Insistence on His Approach
Despite early signs of cracks in his support, Trump maintains that his approach is working. He stated, “We’ve had nine great months. We just have to do it a few more times, we just have to keep going.” However, the scavengers are circling as his unique position as a president without a consecutive term ahead looms.
- Poor local election results
- Rising concerns over the cost of goods and services
- Growing discontent within the Republican Party due to the Jeffrey Epstein scandal
The 2026 Midterm Elections: A Crucial Test for Trump
Democrats aim to regain control of the House of Representatives amidst growing public dissatisfaction with high living costs and Trump himself, whose approval ratings continue to hit new lows.
White House officials told AFP that Trump is now focusing on domestic affairs and plans more national trips before the end of 2025, hosting events and rallies reminiscent of a campaign.
Trump reportedly received the message from concerned voters about prices and healthcare, as well as dissenting voices within his MAGA movement questioning his focus on foreign peace agreements.
“Promises” to Fulfill: The Ticking Clock
The question remains how much Trump can accomplish. The Supreme Court is set to issue significant rulings, not all of which may favor the president, especially regarding the legality of his tariffs despite the court’s conservative leanings.
Meanwhile, the Trump administration acknowledged that tariffs have increased living costs and recently reduced them on items like coffee, meat, and tomatoes.
Trump’s Future Political Moves
Despite these challenges, Trump, a seasoned showman, is expected to continue promoting his political brand. Two major events will aid him: hosting the 2026 FIFA World Cup in North America alongside Canada and Mexico, and celebrating the 250th anniversary of US independence with a cage fight on the White House lawn.
Garret Martin, a professor of international relations at American University, predicts an “explosive” situation surrounding Trump’s succession, with battles likely to begin shortly after the midterm elections.
- JD Vance has already staked his claim
- Marjorie Taylor Greene has emerged as a potential rival, despite her denials
- Trump might stir more controversy by hinting at another run for office, defying the US Constitution
Key Questions and Answers
- What are Trump’s plans for 2026? Trump aims to create a lasting legacy, focusing on domestic affairs and planning more national events before the end of 2025.
- What challenges does Trump face in 2026? The president must address rising public dissatisfaction with living costs and his own declining approval ratings. Additionally, the Supreme Court’s upcoming rulings on tariffs and potential intraparty conflicts pose challenges.
- How might Trump’s actions impact the 2026 midterm elections? Democrats aim to regain control of the House, and Trump’s continued influence could either bolster or hinder their efforts.
- What is the significance of the 2026 midterm elections? These elections will test Trump’s political clout and could reshape the political landscape for years to come.
