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Trump Begins Second Year in Office Amid Greenland Dispute and New Political Tensions
MLN — 20 JAN 2026: President Donald Trump began his second year back in office this week amid renewed controversy over Greenland, fresh tariff threats against U.S. allies, and new scrutiny of his public statements, as his administration faces political pressure ahead of the November midterm elections.
Over the weekend, Trump announced tariffs on eight European countries after they declined to support his push for U.S. control of Greenland. The targeted nations include France, Germany and the United Kingdom. Trump said the tariffs would take effect Feb.1.
Hours later, Trump said on social media that every on of the people involved in former President Joe Biden’s use of an autopen, should be arrested. Trump has acknowledged using an autopen himself in the past.
On Monday, Trump also linked his efforts to acquire Greenland to his failure to receive the Nobel Peace Prize, according to messages sent to Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre. Norwegian officials have said the prize is awarded by an independent committee.
Trump entered his second year with job approval ratings underwater. According to polling averages maintained by Decision Desk HQ, 54.5 percent of Americans disapproved of his performance as of Sunday, while 42.6 percent approved.
Issue-specific polling shows mixed results. A recent Wall Street Journal survey found Trump in positive territory only on border security, where 53 percent approved. On inflation and health care, his approval ratings were significantly lower.
Inflation has remained between 2.3 percent and 3 percent since mid, 2024, according to Bureau of Labor Statistics data. The December reading stood at 2.7 percent. Trump has pressed the Federal Reserve to cut interest rates, a move some economists warn could increase inflation if enacted.
On health care, the White House has outlined a proposal that would redirect subsidies from Affordable Care Act exchanges directly to individuals, though details remain limited.
Trump’s tariff announcement drew criticism from some Republicans. Sen. Thom Tillis, R-N.C., wrote on social media that the move was “bad for America, bad for American businesses, and bad for America’s allies.”
The administration has also faced disputes with Congress over agency funding, investigations involving the Federal Reserve, and the potential use of military force abroad.
As the midterm election year begins, Republican lawmakers are assessing how closely to align with Trump amid ongoing domestic and foreign policy debates.
