President Donald Trump’s first year in office has seen significant achievements as he delivers on many of his key campaign promises. His efforts to secure the southern border stand out prominently, directly addressing a pressing national concern. At a rally in October 2024, Trump stated emphatically, “We will close the border. We will stop the invasion of illegals into our country.” The numbers support this resolve: illegal crossings have plummeted from a staggering 100,000 to 300,000 per month during President Joe Biden’s last term to just 10,000 to 11,000 under Trump’s administration. Such numbers illustrate a drastic turnaround, and with no releases into the country over the past seven months, the Trump team effectively claims to have established the most secure border in American history.
The impact of Trump’s policies extends into the pocketbooks of everyday Americans as well. In October 2024, he promised, “We’re going to have very large tax cuts for workers.” The introduction of the “Big Beautiful Bill” has delivered on that pledge. Among its provisions are significant tax breaks, including no taxes on tips up to $25,000, and an increase in the standard deduction for seniors. This initiative represents a tangible win for many hard-working individuals across the nation, setting a more favorable economic landscape.
Trade has also been a key focal point. Trump has long criticized the existing trade agreements, pledging to implement reciprocal tariffs. The results of these policies have begun to emerge, with a substantial rise in tariff revenue—$195 billion in fiscal year 2025—and a notable reduction in the trade deficit, which dropped 35 percent as of September, hitting $52.8 billion. This sharp decrease underscores the effectiveness of the policy changes Trump initiated.
Evident economic growth marks another notable achievement. Trump pointed to a robust GDP growth of 4.3 percent during the third quarter, an encouraging figure when placed beside the 2.4 percent growth seen in Biden’s final full quarter in office. This economic momentum bodes well for the future, affirming Trump’s assertions that a vote for his leadership is a vote for prosperity.
Trump’s administration has tackled sociocultural issues, especially regarding sports. He pledged to “keep men out of women’s sports,” an assertion solidified through an executive order mandating that federal funding not support states allowing otherwise. This move received backing from the Olympic and Paralympic Committee, signaling a shift in how gender and sports are viewed in the nation.
The energy sector also feels the weight of Trump’s policies. His declarations against what he termed the “Biden-Harris war on American energy” have yielded results. As gas prices reach their lowest levels in four years, Trump’s promised “drill, baby, drill” approach resonates with consumers eager for relief at the pump.
In terms of foreign policy, Trump aims to restore stability in the Middle East, asserting, “We’re going to get it to work out.” His administration achieved a ceasefire in Gaza and saw the release of hostages held by Hamas. While complexities remain, including the ongoing war in Ukraine, these efforts highlight a strategic approach to restoring peace.
On the financial front, budgetary reforms aim to cut government spending. Trump’s establishment of a government efficiency commission, led by Elon Musk, reflects his commitment to scrutinizing and reducing federal expenditures. The workforce saw a reduction of 271,000 federal employees, marking a pivot towards a leaner government.
Additionally, public safety has been prioritized. Just before the 2024 election, Trump expressed, “We will make America safe again.” The results speak volumes: a historic drop in murder rates suggests that his policies are resonating, especially in cities supported by additional measures like National Guard deployments.
Lastly, Trump has focused on inflation, vowing to make America affordable again. The Consumer Price Index showed a lower-than-expected inflation rate of 2.7 percent, indicating that his strategies are starting to bear fruit. Wage growth now exceeds inflation, signaling a brighter economic future.
Trump’s first year has been marked by significant actions that fulfill many of his campaign promises. From securing the southern border to delivering tax reforms and reducing crime rates, his administration has embarked on a path seen by many as a resounding success. The evidence thus far suggests that Trump’s approach is yielding results, aligning closely with the expectations he set forth during his campaign.
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