Donald Trump is among the most powerful men in American politics. Even in his return to the White House, his leadership style, commitment to loyalty, and “America First” doctrine continue to influence decisions throughout government. From the Federal Reserve’s new definition to restructuring the executive branch, Trump’s impact on White House decisions today is evident, uncompromising, and divisive.
1. Trump and the Federal Reserve
Most prominently, Trump has reached into the Federal Reserve. Trump has moved to place board members who are resistant to his agenda in an effort to secure a majority of loyal appointees. The action is likened by some analysts to “court-packing” and has some worrying about the independence of the Fed being undermined.
By putting pressure on interest rate fluctuations, Trump is seeking to maintain the economy juiced, particularly in the run-up to election seasons. Wall Street has been lukewarm on it so far, but economists caution that politicizing the Fed risks destabilizing financial markets over the long term.
2. Rolled-Back Climate and Science Protections
The Trump administration also acted to disable rules of scientific integrity in agencies such as the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). These actions were taken to prevent political interference from entering climate science in the first place.
By rolling back these policies, Trump indicates a departure from business-friendly environmental regulation. This is consistent with his more general climate change regulation skepticism and focus on fossil fuel drilling.
3. DOGE – The Department of Government Efficiency
On his first day in office, Trump established the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). Led by Elon Musk, DOGE will increase the efficiency of federal agencies through freezes on appointments, budgets reduced, and regulations cut back.
While the White House takes credit for saving taxpayers billions of dollars, critics fear the cuts threaten to freeze vital services. This is in line with Trump’s broader vision of reducing the government and amplifying the power in the White House.
4. Foreign Policy Under Trump: America First Again
Trump foreign policy is still rooted on unilateralism and frugality:
Re-withdrawal from the Paris Climate Agreement.
Reducing foreign aid budgets by more than 90% in multiple cases.
Imposing sanctions on the International Criminal Court.
Limiting U.S. engagement with the World Health Organization (WHO).
Its supporters view this as a robust assertion of sovereignty. Its opponents claim that it erodes U.S. leadership in the world and alienates allies.
5. Deregulation and Business-Friendly Reforms
Trump’s White House tore down many of the last administration’s regulatory shields, including lobbying restrictions and conflict-of-interest policies. This allows corporate lobbyists, ex-government workers, and political strategists to travel more freely between government and industry.
In finance and tech, Trump favors deregulation and pro-merger policies. While beneficial to corporations, consumer groups worry about reduced protections and monopolization.
6. Political Symbolism and Narrative Control
Trump also exercises symbolic action to determine the national agenda. For instance, to commemorate the anniversary of the airport bombing in Kabul, Trump remembered deceased American troops while heavily condemning President Biden’s policies of withdrawal.
By reframing critical events, Trump causes Americans to view history in a manner in which political blame or credit will always redound to his benefit. Symbolic power buttresses his involvement in all significant White House decisions.
The Broader Perspective: Control and Impact
Why Trump controls the White House is understandable on two levels:
Short-term dominance: Seizing institutions, slashing budgets, and reversing regulation.
Long-term dangers: Upending checks and balances, defying scientific expertise, and shaking U.S. relations internationally.
Depending on politics, whether these acts are bold action or reckless excess is extremely subjective.
FAQs on Donald Trump’s Influence in the White House
Q1: How has Trump altered the selection process for White House staff?
Trump favors loyalty over traditional qualifications, which guarantees friends have key decision-making roles.
Q2: Why is Trump attacking the Federal Reserve?
He wants more control over interest rates and monetary policy so economic results align with his political agenda.
Donald Trump’s legacy on the White House policies of the day is enormous and sweeping. From reconstructing staff and assuming the reins to rebranding diplomacy and deregulation, Trump continues to make his presence felt in American politics. Whether that legacy makes the presidency stronger or weaker will be argued about for decades—but one thing is for sure: Trump is still at the helm of American political power.
