Politics

What Do Trump’s Supporters Say He Is Doing Wrong, and What Do His Critics Say He is Doing Right?

It’s no secret that trust in mainstream media is declining. A Gallup poll taken earlier this year found that around 30% of American respondents trusted the accuracy of news reporting from major TV and newspaper outlets. The First Amendment of…

By John Seetoo

Published May 25, 2025, 8:02am ET · 1 min read

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The First Amendment of the U.S. Constitution protects Americans from government-compelled speech and allows for a diversity of opinions. Most Americans form views on an issue-by-issue basis rather than adhering to a single ideological framework.

Contrary to some perceptions of partisan polarization, several of President Donald Trump’s policies share elements with historical Democratic figures such as John F. Kennedy and Andrew Jackson. These overlaps have, at times, surprised some on the Left and sparked debate among traditional conservatives.

Lack of High-Profile Prosecutions

A recurring concern among some Trump supporters is the perceived lack of accountability for figures involved in events like the Clinton email investigation, the Benghazi attacks, and allegations of misconduct within federal agencies during election years. While several of these matters have been subject to investigations, many supporters continue to call for more legal action and transparency.

The Epstein List

Jeffrey Epstein remains a widely discussed figure due to his criminal activity and the high-profile individuals reportedly linked to him. Many Americans—across the political spectrum—continue to demand more disclosure regarding those involved. President Trump signed Executive Order 13818 during his first term, which targets human rights abusers globally, and this has been cited in discussions about broader anti-trafficking efforts.

Election Integrity and Reform

Concerns over election integrity remain prevalent in certain communities. While isolated cases of fraud have resulted in charges or convictions in some states, comprehensive bipartisan legislation on election security has yet to materialize. State-level reforms are ongoing in response to public demand for greater transparency.

COVID-19 Policy and Origin Disclosures

The pandemic response has generated extensive debate. While federal agencies recommended mass vaccination campaigns, some dissenting medical voices have argued for alternative treatments, such as Ivermectin—though major health authorities have not endorsed its widespread use. Investigations into the origins of COVID-19, including potential lab involvement, are still ongoing. Calls for more open disclosure and review of public health policy continue from both within and outside government.

January 6th and Legal Proceedings

The events of January 6, 2021, were labeled an insurrection by many media outlets and lawmakers. While some participants were charged with violent conduct, others were prosecuted for trespassing and related offenses. Debate persists regarding the treatment of defendants and the transparency of law enforcement’s role. The death of Ashli Babbitt and other aspects of the response have been the focus of scrutiny and legal challenges.

Points of Policy Support Among Critics of Trump

Combating Human and Child Sex Trafficking

An African women Opening the door of a container, inside of which serveral people were sitting, to human trafficking and illegal immigration concept. — Anti-trafficking efforts have gained bipartisan support, with many Americans expressing concern over child exploitation. Executive Order 13818 was one of the instruments used to address international human rights abuses. Recent surveys show strong public backing for more robust protections for unaccompanied minors and vulnerable populations. States are increasingly pursuing legislation to combat trafficking, even amid federal funding changes.

Targeting Criminal Activity Among Undocumented Immigrants

Hands, ring and man with fashion, jewellery and gangster with style, accessories and fist. Person, hand gesture and guy with trendy outfit, wearable and elegant with confidence, silver and luxury — Efforts to deport undocumented individuals involved in criminal enterprises have received broad public support, as indicated by a recent Rasmussen poll showing 64% of voters in favor of deporting Venezuelan gang members. Many voters, regardless of party, express concerns about community safety.

Support for RFK Jr.-Style Health Advocacy

Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has long criticized corporate influence in the food and pharmaceutical sectors. Although he is not a cabinet member, some of his policy priorities—such as eliminating chemical food dyes and scrutinizing gain-of-function research—have garnered bipartisan interest. These stances have also been linked to broader support for regulatory reform.

Consumer Relief on Food Prices

White eggs in green paper container with blurred money on a white background. Egg price increase concept. — While some political leaders have claimed food prices are stable, anecdotal evidence suggests prices for key items like eggs have declined significantly. For example, prices at outlets like Trader Joe’s reportedly dropped from over $15 per dozen in January to $3.99 by mid-March. Consumers across political lines welcome this shift.

Fairness in Women’s Sports

President Trump’s executive action on transgender participation in sports has sparked national debate. While critics view it as discriminatory, others—including figures like Martina Navratilova—have voiced support, citing concerns over fairness in women’s athletics. The issue remains contentious, with notable Democrats now expressing nuanced positions.

Frustration among Trump supporters largely centers on the perceived slow pace of progress on issues they prioritize. Meanwhile, even some critics of the former president acknowledge alignment with certain policies, particularly around public safety, health transparency, and regulatory reform. The political landscape continues to evolve, revealing areas of unexpected consensus alongside persistent division.

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John Seetoo

After 15 years on Wall Street with 7 of them as Director of Corporate and Municipal Bond Trading for a NYSE member firm, I started my own project and corporate finance consultancy. Much of the work involves writing business plans, presentations, white papers and marketing materials for companies seeking budgetary allocations for spinoffs and new initiatives or for raising capital for expansion or startup companies and entrepreneurs. On financial topics, I have been published under my own byline at The Motley Fool, 247wallst.com, DealFlow Events’ Healthcare Services Investment Newsletter and The Microcap Newsletter, among others. Additionally, I have done freelance ghostwriting writing and editing for several financial websites, such as Seeking Alpha and Shmoop Financial. I have also written and been published on a variety of other topics from music, audiophile sound and film to musical instrument history, martial arts, and current events. Publications include Copper Magazine, Fidelity (Germany), Blasting News, Inside Kung-Fu, and other periodicals.

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