Former President Donald Trump held a fiery campaign-style rally in Warren, Michigan, on Tuesday, celebrating what he described as major economic achievements while sharply attacking Democrats. The event, intended to mark the first 100 days of his new term, came as national polls reflected growing public skepticism about his tough stances on trade and immigration.
Addressing supporters, Trump defended his decision to impose tariffs on key U.S. trading partners, arguing they would reignite American manufacturing. “We had the greatest economy in the history of our country,” he declared, referring to his first term. “We did great, and we’re doing better now.”
However, recent polling suggests many Americans are less confident. A Reuters/Ipsos survey showed only 36% approve of Trump’s handling of the economy—his lowest rating to date—amid persistent inflation and warnings from economists about a possible recession due to escalating global trade tensions.
Trump took aim at Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell, accusing him of poor economic leadership, and reiterated his push for sweeping tax cuts. He promised exemptions on tips, Social Security, and overtime pay, despite concerns from budget experts that such measures could deepen the already massive $36.6 trillion national debt.
In classic campaign fashion, Trump railed against “radical left lunatics,” sparred briefly with a heckler, and even asked the crowd to vote on their favorite derogatory nickname for President Joe Biden. A large banner reading “The Golden Age” served as the backdrop while Trump showcased a video montage of his immigration enforcement record, including images of alleged gang members being arrested—met with enthusiastic applause.
Earlier in the day, at a nearby National Guard base in Selfridge, Trump announced a $1 trillion investment in national defense. Joined by Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and Michigan’s Democratic Governor Gretchen Whitmer, he confirmed the base would receive 21 new Boeing F-15X fighter jets—a move Whitmer called a “huge, bipartisan win” for Michigan’s economy and job market.
Back at the Warren rally, Trump defended his tariffs, especially those targeting China, portraying them as essential to protecting American jobs. “With my China tariffs, we’re ending the greatest job theft in the history of the world,” he said. He also suggested a new, “fair” trade deal with China could be close.
Still, his economic vision faces headwinds. The latest polls indicate a dip in overall support, with just 42% of Americans approving of his performance—down from 47% in January. Meanwhile, warnings from economists and market jitters have raised fears that prolonged trade conflicts could stunt global commerce.
Despite this, many supporters in Michigan remained resolute. “We’ve got to make changes,” said 65-year-old retired steelworker Paul Ruggeri. “It’s going to be painful for a little while… but it’s got to change.”
Democrats, meanwhile, held a Senate floor event titled “100 Days of Chaos” to counter Trump’s rally. Senate Majority Whip Dick Durbin accused Trump of eroding constitutional norms and damaging the U.S. globally, while criticizing Republican lawmakers for staying silent. “It is, in fact, the silence of the lambs,” Durbin said.
Outside the rally, protesters carried upside-down American flags and signs reading “I dissent,” underscoring the deep political divide still surrounding Trump’s presidency.
