Donald Trump has been in office for one official year during his second term, and his approval rating has gone down by 13%, according to Pew Research Center. Through interviews and surveys, the Bulldog Bulletin has gathered responses regarding his second term. The responses range from“He’s improved America for the better” to “He is a disgusting human being who degrades everyone who is not a rich white man”. With these varied opinions, we must ask ourselves if democracy is at risk and what we can do to save it.
Common themes mentioned were Trump's immigration policy focusing on mass deportations, substantial expansion of detention centers, and the unconstitutionality of his actions. During Trump's official first term, the administration reported deporting over 650,000 individuals and 1.2-1.5 million self deportations. According to the news outlet, The Guardian, more than 170 U.S. citizens have been detained by ICE, 32 people have died in ICE custody, and roughly 8 people have been shot and killed as of January 24, 2026. The actions by ICE are depicted as violent and unlawful. For example, The New York Times reports of dehumanizing treatment in ice facilities, instances of breaking and entering, and violent retaliation towards protesters.
“A multitude of his actions have violated the constitution and lack adherence to the rule of law,” one Burr and Burton Academy community member said.
Civil liberties advocates argue that killing and detaining people for their use of free speech, as witnessed in the recent death of Alex Pretti, is unconstitutional and immoral because it violates the First Amendment. In addition, on January 25, 2025, Trump signed a bill ending birthright citizenship, violating the Fourteenth Amendment. More recently, Trump kidnapped Nicolas Maduro, the Venezuelan dictator, and he did not seek congressional approval, violating the 1973 war powers resolution stating that congress must be notified 24 hours in advance before deploying forces.
According to another Burr and Burton community member, “It isn’t just Republicans to take the blame. It is democrats as well. Both parties are making mistakes by giving their party a pass on poor behavior. We are losing democracy.”
With midterm elections approaching, voters are encouraged to educate themselves on new candidates. During times like these, not just voters, everyone is able to use their voices, educate ourselves on civics and contemporary issues, and finally continue to believe in democracy.