Trump Transforms US Presidency Expanding Executive Powers

Since assuming office in 2025, President Donald Trump has profoundly reshaped the presidency, moving away from traditional norms and checks and balances that previous presidents respected. His administration, influenced by ideas such as those from Project 2025, envisions a government transformed into a heavily-armed, profit-driven corporation, with radical changes including mass firings of civil servants and a retreat from international engagements, reflecting authoritarian tendencies. Unlike the visionary CEOs idealized in these plans, Trump's approach has been characterized by a desire to rule rather than govern, marked by a series of controversial actions including resuming nuclear tests, military threats against U.S. cities, and an extended government shutdown. These moves have stirred significant public protest and political unrest, yet Trump continues to push forward with ambitious and divisive policies despite limited electoral margins. The ongoing off-cycle elections are seen as referenda on the current administration's direction, with Republicans energized and Democrats struggling to regain ground. Overall, Trump's presidency represents a dramatic reconfiguration of the office, emphasizing executive power and a departure from established democratic governance.