Trump’s First 100 Days: Immigration Crackdown, Executive Power, and Rising Opposition

President Donald Trump’s first 100 days in office have been marked by a sweeping series of controversial policy shifts, particularly in immigration enforcement, federal agency restructuring, and civil rights protections. As the administration solidifies its priorities, critics and political opponents are mobilizing in response.

One of the most significant and contentious actions taken has been a crackdown on immigration, with a focused effort on unaccompanied minors crossing the U.S.-Mexico border.

 The new enforcement strategy has resulted in both deportations of minors and legal action against their sponsors—many of whom are family members. Immigration advocates have expressed alarm over the policy’s potential to cause indirect family separations and long-term trauma for children.

Further intensifying the administration’s stance, Trump signed two executive orders, including one mandating the creation of a public list of so-called “sanctuary cities” that do not fully cooperate with federal immigration enforcement. The move seeks to pressure municipalities into compliance by threatening federal funding, heightening tensions between state and federal authorities.

In a surprising shift within the federal bureaucracy, the Peace Corps is undergoing major structural changes following a review initiated by the newly established Department of Government Efficiency. The department, headed by entrepreneur Elon Musk, has come under scrutiny after a Senate report estimated that Musk’s potential legal conflicts from government involvement could cost taxpayers up to $2.37 billion.

Meanwhile, the Department of Justice has replaced all senior civil servants in its voting rights section and halted numerous ongoing cases. The sweeping personnel changes have raised deep concern among civil rights groups, who warn of diminished voter protections and a rollback of established legal efforts.

Labor policy has also been affected. Significant budget cuts to the National Labor Relations Board have prompted warnings from Democratic lawmakers, who fear that worker rights and union protections could be severely weakened under the new fiscal direction.

Amid these sweeping changes, political opposition is mounting. Illinois Governor JB Pritzker delivered a fiery public address calling for mass protests against what he described as an assault on American values. His speech has sparked speculation about a possible presidential bid in 2028, positioning him as a leading voice of resistance in the Democratic Party.

As the administration closes its first 100 days, it leaves behind a trail of aggressive reform, rising opposition, and a political landscape bracing for deeper ideological battles.