Trump's Second Term Year One: Reshaping Executive Power and US Democratic Norms in 2026

The American presidency is entering uncharted territory. As of January 23, 2026, President Donald Trump has completed the first year of his second term, marked by a rapid expansion of executive authority. According to NPR, the administration's moves have tested the very foundations of the Constitution, sparking a fierce debate between those who see a necessary overhaul of government and those who fear the erosion of democracy.

Expansion of Trump Second Term Executive Power

With a supportive Republican-led Congress, the Trump administration has moved to control federal purse strings, a power traditionally reserved for the legislative branch. By pulling back appropriated funds and utilizing expansive tariff authorities, the executive branch has effectively bypassed several congressional checks. Key institutions like the NIH and NOAA faced significant budget cuts, while Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. initiated a major overhaul of the national vaccine schedule, sidelining long-standing scientific expert panels.

The Rule of Law and Media Freedom under Pressure

The administration's relationship with the Department of Justice (DOJ) has also come under intense scrutiny. Critics argue that the White House is using the DOJ to pursue political retribution. Furthermore, the president’s liberal use of pardon power for those involved in the January 6, 2021 events has raised questions about the consistent application of the rule of law. Simultaneously, efforts to defund public media and the intimidation of journalists reporting on government activities have raised alarms regarding First Amendment protections.