
President Trump's 10 most controversial phrases in celebration of his first 100 days
As always, Donald Trump was confident about the balance of his administration. Here's what he said passed through the filter of verification.
One hundred days after returning to the White House, Donald Trump took advantage of rallies, interviews and social networks to self-proclaim himself the most effective president in recent U.S. history. His phrases sought to project strength, success and leadership... but do they stand up to scrutiny? Here we compile ten of his most salient statements and contrast his words with the facts.
1. "We've just got started... You haven't seen anything yet"
Rally in Warren, Michigan - April 29th.
A recycled campaign phrase Trump used to promise more radical actions. The truth is that he has already executed controversial orders such as the use of the Alien Enemies Act for summary deportations, and tariffs that have sparked a trade war with China. If this is just the beginning, many analysts fear what is to come. Ah, the economy contracted 0.3% in the first quarter.
2. "Nothing will stop me"
Rally in Michigan
More than a promise, it sounds like a warning. Trump launched this phrase before a euphoric crowd, but the reality is that he has been stopped. In these first 100 days, multiple federal judges have blocked his executive orders on immigration, the environment and education. The phrase omits the crucial role that the judiciary has played as a counterweight to his most controversial measures. The judiciary, the citizenry through protests and the traditional media have become a containment barrier.
I banned all government censorship and restored free speech in America" 3.
Rally in Michigan
VERIFICATION: FALSE. The administration has shut down public media outlets such as Voice of America and Radio and TV Marti, and employees who leak information have been prosecuted. It has also sued universities for allowing anti-Israel protests, in what some academics call indirect censorship.
4. "China probably will eat those tariffs"
Interview with ABC News
VERIFICATION: MISLEADING. Although some of the tariffs may be absorbed by exporters, studies by the Peterson Institute for International Economics indicate that in previous trade rounds, more than 80% of the cost was borne by U.S. consumers and businesses.
5. "We have free speech"
Rally in Michigan
VERIFICATION: DEBATABLE. The government has taken legal action against technology platforms, threatened sanctions against journalists who "defame the president" and revived debates about spying on critical media. It is considering legal action against The New York Times.
6. "If you're gonna have 21 million people, and if we have to get a lot of 'em out because they're criminals, we're gonna have to act fast"
ABC News - April 29
VERIFICATION: SENSATIONALIST. Trump inflates the numbers (the highest estimate of undocumented is 11 million, not 21). In addition, studies by the American Immigration Council have shown that immigrants commit fewer crimes than U.S. citizens. In addition, several judges have reminded Trump that it is not possible to act quickly, because there is due process. Recall the Kilmar Abrego case.
7. "I think [Putin] does [want peace]"
ABC News - on the war in Ukraine
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VERIFICATION: CONTROVERSIAL. While Trump says his presence prevents Putin from advancing, Pentagon reports leaked in April show that Russia has stepped up attacks in eastern Ukraine since Trump took office.
8. "We must get rid of the Biden Overhang"
Truth Social - April 30
VERIFICATION: QUESTIONABLE. Although Trump blames Biden for the GDP contraction (-0.3% in the first quarter), many economists argue that the uncertainty caused by tariffs and government spending cuts in the first 100 days has had a negative impact.
9. "I've done more in 100 days than most presidents in a full term"
Reiterated at rallies and on social media
VERIFICATION: FALSE. Brookings Institution experts note that while Trump has issued multiple executive orders, most still face litigation, court deadlocks or lack effective implementation. In contrast, FDR, LBJ and Obama pushed through structural legislation in their first 100 days.
10. "America is back - stronger than ever"
Social truth and official speeches
VERIFICATION: EMPTY RHETORIC. Trump's second term approval rating is 44% according to Gallup. In addition, the country is facing strikes, university protests, racial tension and financial instability.
Trump remains a master of message, but many of his phrases do not stand up to factual analysis. In his first 100 days he has consolidated power, but eroded trust and deepened divisions. What lies ahead may be even more intense.
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