President Donald Trump marked the first 100 days of his second term with bold statements, defiant responses, and an eye-opening spending record.
Despite calls for reduced federal expenditure, a staggering amount has already been spent. Meanwhile, Trump’s approval ratings remain historically low, prompting many to question the direction of his presidency.
Trump’s spending in first 100 days contradicts promises to cut costs
Although President Trump campaigned on reducing government spending, his administration has already spent a staggering amount during the first 100 days.
Analysts note that the spending totals have surpassed those of several previous administrations combined in similar timeframes.
While the exact figures are still being reviewed, early reports suggest that billions have been allocated toward defense, border enforcement, and economic stimulus efforts.
This surge has surprised both allies and critics, especially in light of the president’s vocal push for fiscal discipline.
Trump issues blunt eight-word response to voters expressing regret
In an interview with ABC News’ Terry Moran, Trump addressed criticism from voters who now regret supporting him in 2024.
Trump’s answer came in the form of eight sharp words, as he said: “Well, they did sign up for it, actually.”
When Moran pointed out that some Americans feel blindsided by the effects of trade tariffs and rising household costs.
“There is a lot of concern out there,” Moran said. “People are worried, even some people who voted for you, sayin’, “I didn’t sign up for this.” So how do you answer those concerns?”
Trump cut in with a sharp reply: “Well, they did sign up for it, actually.”
This eight-word statement quickly spread across media platforms, encapsulating Trump’s unapologetic stance on his economic agenda.
The president went on to argue that the economy was ‘what [he] campaigned on’, claiming that the US had been ‘abused by other countries at levels that nobody’s ever seen before’ and it was ‘not sustainable’.
The President defends his economic agenda despite mounting public concerns
Trump doubled down on his economic record, claiming it reflects exactly what he promised during his campaign. He cited falling energy prices as evidence of progress, claiming gasoline has dropped to $1.98 in some states.
He also boasted that egg prices have decreased by 87% since his return to the Oval Office. According to Trump, these changes prove that his policies are working and that “it’s all heading in the right direction.”
He continued: “So now if you look at what’s happened – energy is down. Gasoline hit $1.98 in a few states – during the last couple of days. It was $3.50 and $4.00 and $4.50. But gasoline is way down. And when I took over, you remember the big thing with eggs?…
“Well, eggs are down 87% since I got involved.”
Despite his confidence, recent polls paint a different picture of public sentiment.
An ABC News/Washington Post/Ipsos survey revealed that 55 percent of Americans disapprove of Trump’s performance, making it the lowest 100-day approval rating of any U.S. president in the last 80 years. In another poll by The New York Times and Siena College, only 42 percent approved of Trump’s leadership. Alarmingly, 66 percent described his second term so far as “chaotic.”
President Trump appears undeterred by criticism, low approval ratings, and growing concerns over federal spending.
His unapologetic tone, symbolized by his sharp eight-word retort, suggests he remains committed to his vision.
However, with more Americans questioning his leadership, the next 100 days may be even more pivotal. Whether voters truly “signed up for it” or not, Trump’s presidency continues to unfold in unpredictable and polarizing ways.