"Though many citizens of the United States openly oppose many of the actions taken by the Trump administration, I argue that overall, President Trump’s first 100 days in office have been a success. In his speeches pre-election, President Trump made the American people promises, many of which he has begun to address in these first 100 days in office. In regards to immigration, President Trump signed an executive order temporarily banning seven countries from entrance into the United States, while the administration had time to address issues of terrorism and illegal immigration. While the Trump administration received backlash for this executive order, and was forced to re-write much of it, the vetting process is thought to become more effective in aiding legal immigrants, while excluding those whom are likely tied to terrorist associations.

"Second, the Trump administration has taken a much-needed stand against the irrational country of North Korea. Former presidents have avoided direct confrontation and instead, attempted peaceful negotiations with a country that very likely has nuclear capabilities. North Korea is a clear threat, and has been for many years. Although it is unfortunate prior negotiations have failed, I am pleased to see a president who is not afraid to stand his ground. President Trump’s stance on North Korea also sends other countries (including China and Russia) a clear message. President Trump is also taking a stance against ISIS, made evident by the recent dropping of the most powerful non-nuclear bomb (MOAB) on ISIS strongholds.

"I only ask President Trump to re-evaluate his stance on environmental issues, particularly regarding the Environmental Protection Agency. Regardless of his personal beliefs regarding climate change, it is evident the Earth as a whole is experiencing species extinctions, habitat loss, water pollution, and air pollution. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) conducts necessary assessments and research regarding the effects we as humans are having on the surrounding environment. While global warming is a cyclical event, humans have sped up the process, wrecking [sic] havoc like never before. Drastically decreasing the EPA’s budget prevents the agency from conducting the research necessary to prevent or reduce the effects of the aforementioned disasters. Like any other human, President Trump is not perfect. However, I believe thus far he has taken a strong, long overdue stance. For too long, the United States has played the 'nice guy,' allowing other nations to take advantage of us, while casting aside the issues causing divisions within our own borders. Defying the wishes of many, President Trump and his administration are prioritizing this country and her citizens, hoping for a renewed sense of national pride and leadership. How do we expect to help others, if we do not first help ourselves?"

Mollie Curtis

Burlington, Vermont