Assessing The Start of Trump’s Second Term: Economy, Foreign Policy, and Culture

Before Jim left on his trip, he and Greg recorded a special episode on how the Trump administration is doing in these first few weeks on issues ranging from the economy to foreign affairs to our culture.

First, they dig into the economy. Jim explains the positive steps Trump is taking on taxes and regulations. But he thinks Trump's focus on tariffs are a bad move, especially against China and Mexico. Greg focuses on the work of DOGE and how it's refreshing to see an administration working to see where our tax dollars are being spent...and the unhinged reaction by Democrats over this audit is also very revealing. But will all of this end up in a more fiscal responsible government? He's not holding his breath.

Next, they examine foreign affairs. Jim is pleased to see Iran and proxies like the Houthis suddenly behaving better since Trump came into office, and Trump taking decisive action against other terrorists. However, he strongly opposes Trump's habit of publicly blasting our allies.Greg says Trump's greatest diplomatic strength is other leaders not being sure of what he's actually willing to do, but he warns that Trump better be ready for a response to those who reject a U.S. ultimatum.

Finally, they focus on cultural issues. Jim says Trump has followed through well on rooting out DEI from the federal government. But he also warns that some of the allies that conservatives picked up on issues like men in women's sports are not going to be allies on a lot of other things. Greg agrees that Trump has done well on the 80-20 issues but needs to keep his eye on the issues that got him elected - inflation and immigration.

Oh, and when you hear Jim and Greg joke about what calamity might make it necessary to run this episode, fear not. Jim and Greg are both fine. Jim is expected back for our regular episodes early next week.