Podcast Summary: We Can Do Hard Things Episode: 100 Days of Trump: What to Know, What to Do & What’s Coming Next | Jessica Yellin
Release Date: May 1, 2025
Hosts: Glennon Doyle, Abby Wambach, Amanda Doyle
Guest: Jessica Yellen

Introduction and Context

In this pivotal episode of We Can Do Hard Things, Glennon Doyle, Abby Wambach, and Amanda Doyle delve deep into the implications of the first hundred days of Donald Trump’s administration. Joined by journalist Jessica Yellen, the discussion aims to unpack the significance of this milestone, assess the administration’s achievements and missteps, and forecast the potential trajectory for the remaining term.

The Historical Benchmark: The First Hundred Days

Amanda Doyle provides a historical backdrop, tracing the origin of the "first hundred days" benchmark to Franklin D. Roosevelt's presidency in 1933. She explains, “The idea of a first hundred days benchmark came about from Franklin D. Roosevelt's presidency... It’s become this idea other politicians have used to measure how effectively they do their job” (03:55).

This period traditionally serves as a litmus test for a new president’s ability to enact their agenda, with Congress typically offering a "honeymoon period" that allows the president to push through key initiatives.

Trump’s Strategy: Executive Orders Over Legislation

A critical analysis emerges as the hosts and Yellen examine Trump’s preference for executive orders over legislative action. Amanda notes, “Trump has enacted most of his agenda using force, i.e., executive orders, not the actual system” (06:12). This tactic contrasts sharply with previous administrations, where lasting legislative changes were prioritized over orders that could be easily rescinded by successors.

Jessica Yellen highlights the unprecedented volume of executive orders signed by Trump: “Trump, in his first hundred days, signed 142 executive orders,” compared to 33 in his first hundred days of his first administration (13:47). This aggressive use of executive power signals an attempt to act unilaterally, often bypassing the collaborative legislative process.

Implications for Immigration and Human Rights

A significant concern raised pertains to the administration’s immigration policies. Amanda Doyle expresses deep unease over the treatment of undocumented individuals, referencing images of detainees forming “SOS” in detention centers (20:49). She draws parallels to historical atrocities, emphasizing the inhumane treatment and dehumanization occurring within these facilities.

Jessica Yellen adds to the gravity of the situation, stating, “This is terrifying” as Amanda details instances of abuse and the potential long-term shame America might face due to these actions (22:04).

Economic Policies and Market Reactions

The discussion shifts to the economic realm, with a focus on Trump’s tariff policies and their detrimental effects. Amanda outlines the negative reception from business leaders and the broader market, noting, “Trump's tariffs... are such a disaster that the market is reacting negatively” (36:50). Consumer confidence is plummeting, and polls indicate a significant portion of the American public disapproves of Trump’s economic performance, with 45% grading his first hundred days as failing (38:00).

Jessica Yellen underscores the disconnect between Trump’s proclamations of success and the observable economic downturn: “The stock market being down 7% since he took office... is obvious it's not working” (40:30).

Internal Factions and Emerging Fractures

Amanda Doyle sheds light on the internal dynamics within the Trump administration, highlighting friction between different factions such as Project 2025 and tech influencers like Elon Musk. She mentions, “The Tech Bros have a certain goal and the Project 2025 people have different goals. So we're going to see if that starts to fray a little bit as well” (46:44). This internal strife hints at vulnerabilities that could undermine the administration’s cohesive push forward.

Public Perception and Polling Data

Public sentiment plays a crucial role in shaping the administration’s future. Amanda points out that not only are Democrats dissatisfied, but even some Republicans and independents are disillusioned with Trump’s performance. She states, “Only 23% gave him an A... his base is about 28, 29, 30%. So even some of his base is not giving him an A” (38:04). This widespread dissatisfaction across party lines signifies potential challenges in maintaining political support.

Looking Ahead: Midterms and Potential Shifts

The conversation anticipates the impact of upcoming midterm elections, with Amanda expressing cautious optimism for Democrats to reclaim the House and possibly the Senate if economic conditions deteriorate further. She warns, “We can't wait for Congress... unless Trump pulls back, we're seemingly on track for something like that” (48:05). The upcoming elections could serve as a critical juncture for reversing or halting some of Trump’s contentious policies.

Call to Action: Community Engagement and Information Sharing

In light of the discussed challenges, the hosts emphasize the importance of community engagement and the dissemination of reliable information. Amanda urges listeners to “never get okay with it. Keep talking about it and keep sharing these stories” (46:42). Jessica Yellen reinforces the necessity of taking proactive steps: “Find your local groups... Show up, make calls and be loud” (52:35). The episode concludes with a rallying cry for collective action to preserve the rule of law and resist authoritarian tendencies.

Conclusion

This episode of We Can Do Hard Things provides a comprehensive and sobering analysis of the first hundred days of Trump’s administration. Through insightful dialogue, the hosts and Jessica Yellen illuminate the profound challenges facing the nation, from undermined legislative processes and human rights violations to economic instability and psychological impacts on the populace. The discussion serves as both a critical assessment and a clarion call for listeners to engage, resist, and uphold democratic values in the face of mounting adversity.

Notable Quotes:

• Amanda Doyle (03:55): “It’s the rule of loyalty in order to make that happen.”

• Amanda Doyle (20:49): “I have a hard time sleeping understanding that we're doing this to people.”

• Amanda Doyle (38:00): “That includes half of all independents. So that's meaningful.”

• Amanda Doyle (46:44): “So we're going to see if that starts to fray a little bit as well.”

• Jessica Yellen (52:35): “Show up, make calls and be loud.”

Note: This summary intentionally excludes advertisements, intros, outros, and non-content sections to focus solely on the substantive discussions and analyses presented during the episode.