With President Trump gearing up to address a joint session of Congress, here’s a look back at the moments from his whirlwind first month back in the White House

As President Donald Trump prepares to address a joint session of Congress, it’s an opportune moment to reflect on his eventful first month back in the White House. This period has been marked by a flurry of executive actions, significant policy shifts, and notable diplomatic engagements

Upon returning to office, President Trump wasted no time in implementing his agenda, signing a record number of executive orders. On his first day alone, he issued 26 orders, surpassing previous records. These directives aimed to reverse policies from the prior administration and introduce new initiatives. For instance, he declared a national emergency at the southern border, facilitating the deployment of armed forces, and designated Mexican drug cartels as foreign terrorist organizations. Additionally, he reinstated the Mexico City policy, affecting international family planning programs.

A notable organizational change was the creation of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), led by Elon Musk. This temporary department aims to reduce federal spending waste and eliminate excessive regulations. The administration also implemented a freeze on new regulations and federal hiring, signaling a commitment to streamline government operations.

President Trump’s foreign policy approach has been assertive and, at times, controversial. A high-profile meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy devolved into a heated exchange, with Trump and Vice President JD Vance criticizing Zelenskyy’s perceived lack of gratitude for U.S. support. This incident strained diplomatic relations and was viewed by Russian officials as a significant victory, potentially indicating a shift in U.S. support for Ukraine.

Public opinion on President Trump’s performance during his first month has been divided. A recent poll indicates that 52% of voters approve of his actions on immigration, cabinet nominations, and public spending. However, his economic policies have faced criticism, with concerns about rising inflation and a potential recession. Financial markets have shown signs of concern, attributed partly to Trump’s policies, including high tariffs and substantial tax cuts. Consequently, public approval of Trump’s economic management stands at a low 42%.

The Democratic Party has experienced internal tensions in response to President Trump’s actions. Activists have criticized party leaders for not mounting a sufficiently aggressive opposition, leading to a divide between the party’s base and its leadership. Figures like House Democratic leader Hakeem Jeffries and Senator Richard Blumenthal emphasize the need for principled resistance, while some strategists advocate for a more measured approach.

As President Trump addresses Congress, these developments from his first month will undoubtedly influence the discourse, reflecting both the accomplishments and controversies that have characterized his return to the Oval Office.