Warren, Mich. (AP) — In a significant event, President Donald Trump is hosting a rally in Michigan on Tuesday to mark the first 100 days of his second term. This rally is poised to be his largest public appearance since returning to the White House, particularly in a state that has been notably impacted by his steep trade tariffs and sometimes contentious relationship with Canada.
During his afternoon visit, Trump will make an announcement at the Selfridge Air National Guard Base alongside Democratic Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer. Following this, he is expected to deliver a speech at Macomb Community College, located just north of Detroit. This event allows Trump to showcase his agenda of disrupting established government, social, political, and foreign policies.
Trump’s administration has implemented strict immigration policies, resulting in a significant reduction in arrests for illegal crossings at the U.S.-Mexico border. Additionally, sweeping government reform efforts led by billionaire adviser Elon Musk have stirred considerable debate in Washington. The administration’s protectionist trade policies, particularly the imposition of import taxes on various goods, are designed to reshape the global economy that the U.S. has built since World War II.
Furthermore, Trump has proposed ambitious U.S. expansionism, not ruling out military intervention in places like Greenland and Panama, and even suggesting the possibility of transforming the war-torn Gaza Strip into a resort destination. “I run the country and the world,” Trump stated in an interview with The Atlantic, emphasizing his belief that his actions align with his campaign promises.
Despite his assertions, public support for Trump remains lukewarm, with only around 40% of Americans approving of his presidency. His ratings concerning the economy and trade are even lower, and a recent survey revealed that 46% of U.S. adults approve of his immigration policies. However, nearly half of Americans feel he has “gone too far” with his deportation efforts. Meanwhile, only 33% of individuals hold a favorable view of Musk, highlighting a disconnect between the administration and public sentiment.
Max Stier, the founding president and CEO of the Partnership for Public Service, remarked, “The bottom line for the first hundred days is, lots of damage being done to the fundamentals of our government.” He emphasized that while there has been interest in making government more efficient, the administration has instead resulted in significant erosion of core governmental capabilities.
Michigan, a critical battleground state that Trump flipped from the Democratic column, has experienced adverse effects from his trade tariffs, particularly those affecting imported cars and auto parts. The state's unemployment rate has risen for three consecutive months, surging by 1.3% in March to reach 5.5%, significantly higher than the national average of 4.2%.
Automaker Stellantis has faced challenges, halting production at plants in Canada and Mexico following the announcement of a 25% tariff on imported vehicles, leading to temporary layoffs for 900 U.S. employees. Industry groups have urged the White House to reconsider plans for tariffs on imported auto parts, warning of potential price increases on vehicles and possible layoffs.
Given the economic challenges, some experts question the wisdom of Trump holding his rally in Michigan. Longtime Michigan pollster Bernie Porn noted, “I’m not sure that he is at all interested in doing the smart thing,” emphasizing Trump's direct and confrontational approach. Michigan’s residents, who typically maintain positive relations with Canada, may not respond favorably to Trump’s recent policies.
During his visit, Trump will also engage with Governor Whitmer, who has been mentioned as a potential presidential candidate. Despite her history as a Trump critic, she has sought opportunities to collaborate with the president, particularly regarding the future of Selfridge Air National Guard Base. However, she continues to voice her concerns on key issues, including environmental policies.
As Trump prepares for his rally at Macomb Community College, it remains to be seen how his message will resonate with Michigan voters, especially amid rising economic uncertainty and shifting public opinion.
