'A chip on our shoulder': Trump's Week 1 actions reward his MAGA base and settle scores

In the first week of his term, former President Donald Trump's actions were deeply reflective of his campaign promises and his desire to solidify the loyalty of his MAGA (Make America Great Again) base. From the outset, his administration focused on delivering policies that catered to the core issues that resonated with his supporters, while simultaneously taking steps that appeared aimed at settling old political scores. Here’s a breakdown of how his actions shaped the early part of his presidency:

1. Rewarding the MAGA Base:

   • Immigration Reform: Trump wasted little time in making good on his campaign promise to tighten immigration policies. The executive order banning travel from several predominantly Muslim countries and the suspension of refugee admissions were immediate actions aimed at satisfying the concerns of his base about national security and immigration.
   • Jobs and Economic Policies: In the first week, Trump also signed several executive orders focused on reducing regulations on businesses, with the goal of stimulating job creation. His rhetoric around "America First" set the tone for his economic policies, emphasizing the need to prioritize American workers and industries over global considerations.
   • Building the Wall: Trump's obsession with the border wall, a key promise of his campaign, was front and center in his early actions. Executive orders to begin construction of the wall along the southern border with Mexico were symbolic of his commitment to keeping his promises to his core supporters.

2. Settling Scores:

   • The "Deep State" and the Bureaucracy: Throughout his campaign and early presidency, Trump often spoke of the "deep state," which he framed as an entrenched bureaucratic structure opposed to his agenda. In his first week, he began to take action against those he deemed disloyal or who had been critical of his administration, either directly or through his messaging. He fired acting attorney general Sally Yates after she refused to enforce his travel ban and attacked federal judges who ruled against his policies.
   • The Media: Trump’s longstanding feud with the media also continued into his presidency. His first week saw a continued attack on the press, labeling them "fake news" for their coverage of his inauguration and other issues. This was not just about challenging their narrative but about appealing to his supporters who felt alienated by mainstream media outlets.

3. Tone and Leadership Style:

   • Trump’s actions in the first week set the tone for his leadership style: combative, defiant, and unapologetic. He was quick to engage in battles, not just with foreign adversaries, but also with domestic institutions such as the judiciary, the press, and the establishment politicians who didn’t share his vision. His aggressive approach was aimed at reinforcing his “outsider” image and showing his base that he would not back down from confronting those he perceived as enemies or obstacles to his agenda.

In summary, Trump's actions in the first week of his presidency were a blend of fulfilling promises to his base and engaging in partisan battles. His focus on immigration, economic protectionism, and challenging established institutions resonated strongly with his MAGA supporters but also set the stage for fierce political polarization throughout his time in office.