Trump Faces Trade War Skepticism Amid Potential Policy Shift

Donald Trump's leadership style in his second term is marked by a transactional approach to politics and governance, as illustrated by his calculated engagement with media and ongoing efforts to maximize personal and political advantage. The Trump campaign and loyal advisers have methodically prepared a detailed agenda for a potential return to power, repackaging first-term priorities and preparing for anticipated legal battles. Washington's policy landscape has shifted dramatically, with sweeping dismissals of federal employees and significant funding cuts to federally supported research institutions, leading to concerns about the weakening of U.S. research capacity and a decline in D.C. home prices. These shifts reflect a broader hostility toward career officials and a drive to consolidate power within a tight circle of loyalists. The resulting environment has upended traditional policy processes and heightened uncertainty within government and affiliated organizations.