As President Donald Trump completes the first year of his second term, his administration's policies continue to reshape U.S. governance and international relations. Dubbed "Trump 2.0," this phase has amplified executive authority while sparking debates about institutional stability and global engagement.
Federal Workforce Overhaul Sparks Debate
Last February's executive order to reduce federal staffing saw 154,000 employees depart by September 2025 through voluntary buyouts. While the White House framed this as streamlining bureaucracy, critics warn of weakened institutional expertise. The policy's ripple effects intensified as U.S. companies announced over 150,000 layoffs by October 2025, raising concerns about fiscal austerity's impact on economic confidence.
Immigration Policy at Center Stage
The administration's expanded border controls, stricter visa rules, and challenges to birthright citizenship have made immigration enforcement a cornerstone of national security strategy. Recent moves to curtail protections for undocumented migrants and H-1B visa holders have drawn both legal challenges and public protests, with opponents arguing these measures exceed constitutional boundaries.
Analysts note these developments carry implications for Asia, particularly regarding U.S. trade policies and participation in multilateral institutions. Business leaders are closely monitoring how tariff adjustments and workforce reductions might affect supply chains and cross-Pacific partnerships.
