Despite low expectations, 2025 proved to be a profoundly disappointing year, marked by a second presidential term for Donald Trump. The year was characterized not only by disruptive actions, but also by a sense of shock that even preparation could not alleviate.
A Year of Unforeseen Actions
The past year saw a series of actions that, while perhaps anticipated in their broad strokes, exceeded expectations in their severity. These included the gutting of cancer research to eliminate diversity programs, the restriction of refugee access—with an exception made for white Afrikaners from South Africa—and the empowerment of a single individual to curtail funding for programs aiding the world’s poorest children.
Further actions included welcoming Vladimir Putin with full honors at a U.S. Air Force base, the unexpected razing of the East Wing of the White House, and a significant deterioration in relations with Canada. The sheer volume of these events underscores the extent of the disruption.
The Role of Acquiescence
The most significant disappointment of 2025, however, may not have been the actions themselves, but the perceived lack of resistance. Trump’s return to power revealed what some describe as a fundamental dysfunction within American society. The President’s actions were seen as a reflection of existing weaknesses, and a test in which the nation largely failed.
This acquiescence extended beyond the Republican Party, encompassing law firms, corporations, and technology companies that appeared to prioritize self-preservation over upholding the rule of law. Trump’s consolidation of power extended beyond the political realm, reaching into areas such as media control and even the naming of places.
A Failure of Resistance?
While resistance was initially envisioned as possible, Republican leaders in Congress and the Supreme Court have, so far, not acted as a counterweight to the President’s actions. Senator Bill Cassidy of Louisiana, for example, expressed concern after Robert F. Kennedy, Jr., broke pledges made during his confirmation process for Secretary of Health and Human Services.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the initial expectation for 2025?
Expectations for 2025 were already low, but the year ultimately proved to be worse than anticipated.
What actions taken by President Trump were particularly surprising?
Actions such as gutting cancer research, restricting refugee access to favor white Afrikaners, and razing the East Wing of the White House were described as particularly shocking.
Who is seen as complicit in the events of 2025?
Beyond President Trump, law-firm managing partners, corporate executives, technology tycoons, and members of Congress are identified as having contributed to the year’s disruptions through their acquiescence.
Given the events of 2025, what role does individual responsibility play in safeguarding democratic institutions?
