During his time in office, Donald Trump made numerous decisions and enacted policies that have had significant and often harmful impacts on various groups of people in the United States. (Honestly, screw this man!!!) Here’s a look at the top 10 worst things he did while in office that hurt Americans, women, immigrants, and the LGBTQ+ community.
During his time in office, Donald Trump made numerous decisions and enacted policies that have had significant and often harmful impacts on various groups of people in the United States. Here’s a look at the top 10 worst things he did while in office that hurt Americans, women, immigrants, and the LGBTQ+ community.
1. Family Separation Policy
One of the most controversial and inhumane policies of the Trump administration was the implementation of a "zero tolerance" policy that led to the separation of thousands of immigrant children from their families at the U.S.-Mexico border. This policy caused unimaginable trauma to families, many of whom are still suffering from the long-term effects of being torn apart. The lack of proper records has made it difficult to reunite some families, leaving a lasting scar on the nation.
2. Rolling Back LGBTQ+ Protections
Trump's administration actively worked to roll back protections for LGBTQ+ individuals. This included attempts to ban transgender people from serving in the military and rescinding guidelines that protected transgender students in public schools. These actions marginalized LGBTQ+ communities and sent a message that their rights and identities were not respected by the government.
3. Undermining Women’s Rights
Under Trump, the administration took several steps to undermine women’s rights, particularly in the areas of reproductive health and gender equality. The administration reinstated and expanded the "Global Gag Rule," which cut off funding to international organizations that provide information about abortion. Additionally, Trump’s support for conservative judges who oppose Roe v. Wade posed a significant threat to women’s reproductive rights.
4. Handling of the COVID-19 Pandemic
Trump’s mishandling of the COVID-19 pandemic led to widespread illness and death across the country. His administration downplayed the severity of the virus, promoted unproven treatments, and failed to implement a cohesive national strategy. This had devastating effects on all Americans, particularly vulnerable populations, and exacerbated existing inequalities in healthcare access.
5. Attacking Immigrants and Immigration Rights
Trump's harsh immigration policies went beyond family separation. He implemented travel bans targeting predominantly Muslim countries, reduced refugee admissions to historic lows, and attempted to end DACA (Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals), putting hundreds of thousands of young immigrants at risk of deportation. These actions stoked fear and uncertainty among immigrant communities and tarnished America’s reputation as a beacon of hope for those seeking a better life.
6. Rolling Back Environmental Protections
The Trump administration systematically rolled back numerous environmental regulations designed to protect air, water, and public lands. By weakening the Clean Power Plan, withdrawing from the Paris Agreement, and opening up protected lands to drilling and mining, Trump’s policies favored corporate interests over the health and safety of Americans, particularly those in low-income communities who are disproportionately affected by pollution.
7. Erosion of Democracy and Rule of Law
Trump consistently undermined democratic norms and institutions, attacking the free press, politicizing the Department of Justice, and questioning the integrity of the U.S. election process. His refusal to accept the results of the 2020 election culminated in the January 6th insurrection, a violent attempt to overturn the election that put the very fabric of American democracy at risk.
8. Encouraging Racism and White Supremacy
Trump’s rhetoric and actions frequently emboldened racist and white supremacist groups. His response to the Charlottesville rally, where he claimed there were "very fine people on both sides," and his use of racially charged language to attack immigrants and people of color, normalized hate and division. This not only harmed the targeted communities but also contributed to a more polarized and divided nation.
9. Weakening Health Care Protections
Trump’s relentless attempts to repeal the Affordable Care Act (ACA) threatened the healthcare coverage of millions of Americans. Although he failed to fully repeal the ACA, his administration succeeded in undermining key provisions, including the individual mandate, which destabilized insurance markets and made healthcare less accessible for many, particularly those with pre-existing conditions.
10. Sabotaging Climate Change Initiatives
Climate change denial was a hallmark of Trump’s presidency. By rolling back regulations on emissions, withdrawing from international climate agreements, and promoting fossil fuels, Trump’s policies set back efforts to combat global warming. These actions not only endangered the planet’s future but also ignored the urgent needs of communities already affected by climate-related disasters.
Conclusion
Donald Trump’s presidency was marked by actions and policies that disproportionately harmed vulnerable communities, including women, immigrants, LGBTQ+ individuals, and low-income Americans. The consequences of his administration’s decisions are still being felt today, underscoring the importance of leadership that prioritizes the well-being and rights of all people. As we move forward, it’s crucial to remember these lessons and advocate for policies that promote equality, justice, and the protection of our planet.