Facing slumping approval ratings and growing backlash to his aggressive policies, President Donald Trump rallied supporters in Warren, Michigan, on April 29 to mark his first 100 days back in office.
He claimed that his administration has achieved more in three months than others have in years, even as polls show deep disapproval of his handling of the economy, immigration, and government restructuring.
Trump pointed to his tariffs and manufacturing-focused agenda as wins, despite mounting recession fears. “This is going to create more jobs in this state and this country,” he said of his auto tariffs.
While he recently softened some tariff rules, he warned foreign companies they had limited time “before we slaughter them.”
Economic indicators have declined sharply under Trump’s second term. A recent New York Times/Siena College poll found 55% of Americans disapprove of his economic policies, and 72% in an ABC/Ipsos poll say those policies could lead to a recession.
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Trump also defended his controversial Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), headed by tech billionaire Elon Musk. The department has slashed federal jobs and eliminated agencies, drawing fire for its chaotic execution.
Critics say Musk has too much control, but Trump rejected the idea he’s being controlled, saying, “I’m not under the thumb of Elon.”
On immigration, Trump touted his use of the centuries-old Alien Enemies Act to speed up deportations of suspected gang members.
He has designated groups like MS-13 and Tren de Aragua as terrorist organizations, though courts have temporarily blocked the removals.
Despite constitutional limits, Trump teased the idea of a third term. “Trump 2028 anybody?” one aide shouted from the stage. Trump smiled and said many people were urging him to run again—even though the Constitution says he can’t.
With chants of “USA” and “MAGA” ringing out, Trump closed by telling the crowd: “We’re just getting started.”
