During his first term in office from January 20, 2017, to January 20, 2021, Donald Trump proved to be a polarizing figure in American politics, leading a presidency marked by significant controversy and legal scrutiny. As the first president without prior government or military experience, Trump’s rise was accompanied by a variety of actions that raised serious ethical and legal questions.

One of the most consequential aspects of Trump’s presidency was the impeachment process that unfolded not once, but twice during his term. The first impeachment, in December 2019, centered on charges of abuse of power and obstruction of Congress. Trump solicited foreign interference in the 2020 presidential election, pressuring Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to investigate political rival Joe Biden and his son, Hunter. This scandal not only made Trump the third U.S. president to be impeached but also showcased a blatant disregard for democratic principles and the rule of law.

Trump’s second impeachment followed the violent Capitol riots on January 6, 2021, instigated by his rhetoric claiming the election was “stolen.” In a speech, he urged his supporters to “fight like hell,” leading to the storming of the Capitol in a chaotic attempt to overturn the electoral results. These actions raised alarm regarding Trump’s respect for democratic institutions and culminated in his historic second impeachment.

In addition to his impeachments, Trump’s term was riddled with various illegal activities that drew criticism throughout the political spectrum. Among these was his alleged violation of the emoluments clause of the Constitution, inhibiting federal officials from accepting gifts or benefits from foreign states without congressional approval. Lawsuits filed against him claimed he profited unfairly from his businesses while in office, creating conflicts of interest that undermined public trust.

The former president’s mishandling of campaign finances also raised eyebrows when his former attorney, Michael Cohen, testified about paying $130,000 in hush money to adult film actress Stormy Daniels to silence allegations of an affair. This payment led to questions about potential campaign finance violations, indicating Trump engaged in cover-ups regarding personal indiscretions.

Trump also faced heavy criticism for his administration’s handling of the COVID-19 pandemic, which claimed over 400,000 American lives before he left office. His persistent dismissal of science and medical guidelines, coupled with misleading statements about the virus, exacerbated public health challenges, resulting in widespread distrust of governmental institutions.

A recent report from the Pew Research Center further emphasized the stark partisan divides surrounding Trump’s presidency. Among Republicans, 37% view him as one of the best presidents in recent history, exceeded only by Ronald Reagan at 41%. In contrast, 58% of Democrats favor Barack Obama as the best recent president, revealing a significant gap in public sentiment and perceptions of leadership effectiveness.

In the aftermath of the tumultuous 2020 election and the criticisms Trump faced as a result, many believed his political future was in jeopardy. Historically sidelined in Republican politics, Trump’s comeback was solidified during the 2024 election, despite facing multiple legal battles and a felony conviction. As he solidified his hold over the Republican Party, Trump’s commitment to implementing radical policy changes on the first day of his return to office stirred fears of a dictatorial approach to governance.

As Trump positioned himself for potential power, his statements suggested swift action on controversial policies, including mass deportations. Concerns arose about whether these proposals would mirror the controversial “Muslim ban” of his first term, providing an unsettling glimpse of what a second Trump presidency might entail.

Analyzing Trump’s presidency reveals a complex fabric of legal and ethical challenges interwoven with increasing social and political polarization. While supporters argue his policies advanced conservative values, critics contend that ethical lapses and legal entanglements overshadow any accomplishments.

The implications of Trump’s administration extend beyond immediate legal ramifications; they have intensified divisions within American society. Evaluations of his leadership and character were starkly polarized, revealing a fractured political landscape that might shape American politics for years to come.

As the nation moves forward, the lessons learned from this tumultuous chapter in American history will undoubtedly resonate, prompting future leaders to thoughtfully consider their responsibilities and the ethical obligations entwined with public office.

Next Wednesday: Donald J Trump (Continued)

Sources:

  1. “President Donald J. Trump.” USA National Archives, National Archives and Records Administration, Accessed 02/28/2025.
  2. “Donald Trump.” Encyclopedia Britannica, last updated Feb. 27, 2025, Accessed 02/28/2025.
  3. Dimock, Michael, and John Gramlich. “How America Changed During Donald Trump’s Presidency.” Pew Research Center, January 29, 2021, Accessed 02/28/2025.
  4. “Donald J. Trump (1st Term) Event Timeline.” The American Presidency Project, Gerhard Peters and John T. Woolley, last updated September 12, 2024, Accessed 02/28/2025.
  5. Daniller, Andrew. “Republicans View Reagan, Trump as Best Recent Presidents.” Pew Research Center, 22 Aug. 2023.
  6. Williams, Michael. “Donald Trump Pulled Off the Ultimate Comeback. See How We Got Here.” CNN, November 7, 2024.
  7. Fernández, Belén. “It Was Anger That Won Trump This Election.” Al Jazeera, November 6, 2024.