Evaluating Trump's First Year: A Conservative Perspective

Has Trump Achieved Less Than It Seems?

As we delve into the first year of Donald Trump's second term, it's crucial to cut through the whirlwind of news and social media uproar to assess the substantive changes—or lack thereof—brought about by his administration. On January 16, 2026, Ezra Klein hosted a compelling discussion with Yuval Levin, a stalwart conservative thinker, which invites us to cautiously scrutinize the narrative surrounding Trump's accomplishments.

The Illusion of Action

Levin articulates a nuanced perspective: while a plethora of activities and headlines distract us, the question remains—what enduring policy changes have occurred? The media hype around the chaos often masks a staggering truth: the Trump administration has seen fewer legislative achievements than most of its predecessors at this stage.

Indeed, the current administration touts various successes including enhanced border security and economic growth. Yet, framed against the backdrop of bureaucratic stagnation and regulatory inertia, these claims warrant skepticism. Levin addresses how the Trump presidency's penchant for sensationalism and individual deals can create the illusion of action without the corresponding substantive policy shifts that would typically characterize a presidential term.

Two Competing Narratives

The discussion traverses two conflicting narratives within Trump's tenure: one celebrates the achievements, while the other underscores the potential harms wrought by the administration's actions. For instance, while proponents cite increases in economic growth and a robust fight against 'woke' culture, critics emphasize the unsettling use of law enforcement as a political tool and the erosion of institutional integrity.

• On one hand, there are successes like:
• A more secure southern border.
• Political victories over progressive institutions.
• A decrease in Iranian nuclear capabilities.
• A revitalized economy.

• On the other hand, critics point to:
• The weaponization of federal law enforcement.
• A chaotic and disoriented immigration enforcement approach.
• An administrative focus that prioritizes reportage over regulation.
• Inflationary pressures resulting from increased tariffs.

Levin delivers a salient point: both narratives carry truth, yet they may fundamentally miss a deeper story about the absence of traditional presidential action. The real tale is not merely one of chaos and noise, but of a significant underachievement in durable policy change.

Presidential Power: A Case Study

We must consider how Trump governs. Levin notes that this administration emphasizes retail over wholesale governance, favoring transactional interactions. This approach can lead to momentary victories but does not foster long-lasting institutional change. For example, prominent deals with pharmaceutical companies may yield limited short-term gains in drug prices while allowing broader price increases elsewhere, showcasing the pitfalls of piecemeal governance.

Further complications arise within the higher education context, where attempts to impose broader regulatory changes were met with resistance, leading back to individual, manageable deals rather than sweeping reforms.

Cultural and Institutional Impacts

Levin argues that the ongoing reshaping of institutions—particularly within the right—may be the most profound change stemming from Trump's presidency. The younger generation of conservatives is increasingly influenced by a philosophy that prioritizes combative stances over traditional conservative values characterized by optimism and constitutional fidelity.

“To defend what you love means fighting people who oppose it.”

Such a shift fuels a more pessimistic and nihilistic view of the American political landscape that could have lasting implications.

Conclusion: A Call for Reexamination

As we reflect on Trump's tenure thus far, it's clear that we must critically examine the dichotomy between perception and reality. The administration has succeeded in creating a strong narrative but has lagged in substantive policy advances. It's a delicate balance to strike between celebrating enacted changes and acknowledging the pitfalls of style over substance.

In conclusion, the conversation between Klein and Levin underscores the need for vigilance and critical analysis in assessing not just what Trump has done, but also what is truly transformative. We owe it to our democracy to dissect and understand these complexities as we move forward.