MAGA Think Tanks Drive Trumpism Into US Governance Amid Conservative Backlash

President Donald Trump, in his 2025 administration, is seen steering an elite-driven MAGA think tank ecosystem to institutionalize America First nationalism and reshape the ideological foundations of the American state, emphasizing executive supremacy and cultural conservatism. However, some of Trump's foreign policy moves, particularly military actions against Venezuela and a $20 billion bailout for Argentina, have drawn criticism from both conservative outlets like National Review and his own MAGA allies, who question deviations from the America First doctrine. GOP lawmakers have largely remained silent amid escalations in Venezuela, despite legal experts criticizing the administration's extrajudicial tactics, while figures like Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene express concern about Trump's foreign policy prioritizing international engagements over domestic issues. Trump also faces backlash from ranchers and conservative commentators like Tomi Lahren over trade decisions perceived as harmful to American agriculture, highlighting tensions within his support base. Additionally, Trump's controversial renovation of the White House East Wing to build a large ballroom has sparked outrage for destroying a historic site, symbolizing broader critiques of his governance style. These developments illustrate the complexities and internal conflicts within Trump's second term as he balances nationalist ambitions with contentious policy decisions.