AhlulBayt News Agency (ABNA): Critics of President Donald Trump say his second-term performance has undermined his political legitimacy and weakened the “Make America Great Again” (MAGA) movement, arguing that he has fallen short of key campaign promises on ending wars, improving the economy, and confronting what he called the “deep state.”
Trump, who rose to prominence as a real estate developer and television personality through The Apprentice, built his political base with the backing of right-leaning media outlets and prominent conservative figures. Campaigning on anti-establishment themes, he attracted voters dissatisfied with traditional political elites.
During his campaign, Trump pledged to end what he described as America’s “endless wars,” lower living costs, and tackle corruption within governing institutions. Critics contend that his administration’s economic policies, including broad tariffs, corporate tax cuts, and increased federal spending, have contributed to a rise in the U.S. national debt, which they note is approaching $40 trillion.
According to publicly released U.S. statistical data cited by critics, tens of thousands of industrial jobs were lost in 2025, with manufacturing employment continuing a downward trend. Opponents argue that Trump’s tariff policies, particularly toward China, have hurt American farmers and restricted access to key export markets.
On foreign policy, critics say that despite promises to reduce overseas military involvement, the United States became entangled in new tensions and military operations during Trump’s second term. They point to U.S. involvement in developments in Venezuela and operations targeting its government as violations of international law. They also warn that threats of military action or expanded sanctions against certain countries risk escalating regional and global conflicts.
Trump, however, has repeatedly defended his approach as “peace through strength,” asserting that his administration has helped conclude or de-escalate several international disputes.
Domestically, Trump’s immigration policies and the enforcement actions of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) have drawn scrutiny. Critics cite increased detentions and deportations as evidence of a hardline approach that, in some cases, has raised concerns about civil rights violations. The administration has maintained that strict enforcement of immigration law fulfills campaign commitments to curb illegal immigration and safeguard national security.
Another contentious issue has been the handling of documents related to Jeffrey Epstein. Some of Trump’s supporters have expressed dissatisfaction that previously promised full disclosures have not materialized. In response, U.S. Justice Department officials have said reviews have found no new evidence of a “client list” or foul play in Epstein’s death.
The gap between campaign pledges and governing outcomes has, according to critics, led to frustration among segments of Trump’s political base. Nonetheless, a significant portion of MAGA supporters continue to defend his policies as serving U.S. national interests and challenging entrenched power structures.
Observers say the debate over Trump’s record underscores broader uncertainty in the U.S. political landscape, with persistent domestic polarization, economic pressures, and contentious foreign policy decisions shaping the country’s trajectory.
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