How Have You Been Affected by Trump’s First 100 Days?
Apr 29, 2025
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Join Marisa Lagos, KQED's politics correspondent, Michelle Singletary, personal finance columnist at The Washington Post, and Dr. Jocelyn Sze, psychologist at UC Berkeley, as they dive into how Trump's first 100 days have reshaped daily life. They discuss community reactions, the emotional toll of political changes, and the impact on mental health. Hear personal stories about job loss anxiety, shifting finances, and the importance of community connections in navigating these turbulent times.
Many Californians report anxiety and insecurity due to impactful Trump policies on finance, immigration, and local economies.
The podcast reveals a significant rise in mental health issues connected to political turmoil, prompting calls for community support and resilience.
Listeners express a renewed commitment to political engagement and activism as a constructive response to feelings of helplessness and instability.
Deep dives
Californians' Mixed Reactions to Trump's First 100 Days
Californians express varied perspectives on President Trump's first 100 days, reflecting deep divisions based on political beliefs. While some supporters feel validated by his policies, critics report heightened anxiety due to significant changes in practices such as tariffs and immigration enforcement. Many citizens, including those in agriculture and law enforcement, are apprehensive about how these developments might impact their communities and jobs. The current political climate sees both supporters and critics expressing concerns, highlighting an era of unprecedented sociopolitical tension.
Financial Uncertainty and Public Anxiety
The episode highlights a general state of worry among citizens regarding their financial futures due to Trump's administration and its policies. People are contacting personal finance experts with increasing concerns about their savings and retirement plans, often fearing potential losses and financial instability. This fear mirrors sentiments not felt since the Great Recession, as many are unsure about making strategic financial decisions moving forward. Such anxiety is compounded by the perception that governmental actions may destabilize economies and undermine safety nets like Social Security and Medicaid.
Mental Health Struggles Amid Political Chaos
Psychologists report a surge in mental health issues, including anxiety and depression, largely attributed to the current political climate. Many clients express heightened feelings of insecurity and distress brought on by unpredictable government policies and social tensions. This has resulted in a collective experience of trauma among individuals, prompting recommendations for maintaining connectivity and confronting fears together. Therapists advise against isolation during these times, promoting community support as a means to build resilience and cope with societal unrest.
Impact on Education and Future Opportunities
Concerns over education funding are on the rise, especially among students pursuing careers in science and engineering, as many fear potential cancellations of graduate programs. The diminishing availability of federal grants is affecting students' plans, leading some to consider studying abroad instead of taking chances in an increasingly unstable domestic environment. The uncertainty surrounding funding for educational institutions has also left students anxious about whether they will receive adequate support in the future. This atmosphere of instability perpetuates worries regarding access to higher education and professional development for upcoming generations.
Calls for Political Engagement and Collective Action
Amid discussions of anxiety and uncertainty, many individuals express a renewed commitment to political engagement and activism as a means to counterbalance feelings of helplessness. Listeners emphasize the importance of collective action and community involvement to address their concerns and advocate for change. Experts suggest that despite the overwhelming nature of current events, staying connected and participating in civic discourse can help mitigate feelings of isolation and fear. This stance reflects a growing belief that newfound political and social mobilization can lead to positive change in response to the turbulence of the current administration.
How have you been affected by Trump’s first 100 days in office? Whether you rushed to buy a car before the tariffs set in, changed your travel plans or cut out caffeine, we want to hear how the Trump administration has affected your daily life. Have your community, job or finances been impacted? Tell us how, as well as how you’re managing — and how you’re thinking about your approach to the next 3.5 years.
Guests:
Michelle Singletary, personal finance columnist, The Washington Post; she writes the nationally syndicated personal finance column "The Color of Money"
Marisa Lagos, politics correspondent, KQED; co-host of KQED's Political Breakdown
Dr. Jocelyn Sze, psychologist and clinical professor at UC Berkeley
