Much has been said about President Donald Trump’s performance during his first 100 days in office, but what does the broader picture reveal? While opinions vary, one undeniable fact is that certain economic indicators have improved — such as a notable drop in egg prices, which had soared in previous years due to inflation and supply chain issues.

Critics of the Trump administration continue to voice their concerns, but when we evaluate the administration’s early actions objectively, it’s clear that there has been significant progress.

Illegal border crossings have reportedly declined, with U.S. Customs and Border Protection data showing a drop in monthly apprehensions compared with peak levels in 2022. The Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) has also enacted cost-cutting measures projected to save taxpayers billions over the next decade through procurement reforms and more efficient contracting.

On the international front, President Trump has pushed for stronger trade terms with China. While a finalized tariff deal has yet to be signed, both countries have resumed high-level talks, and early indications suggest movement toward a more favorable balance for the United States.

Critics point to Trump’s foreign policy decisions, such as recent deals with Middle Eastern allies, as reckless. However, supporters argue these are strategic partnerships that strengthen America’s global influence and defense networks. One controversy involves the deportation of a Salvadoran national, Kilmar Abrego Garcia, who has since been returned to the United States to face criminal charges. While opponents claim due process was violated, the administration maintains that the removal complied with existing immigration laws.

It’s important to acknowledge that not everyone will agree with President Trump’s pace and approach. Some fear that his aggressive push for rapid policy change could lead to mistakes. But fears are not the same as failures. We should judge the administration based on results, not speculation.

There was once a time in American politics when, regardless of who was elected, citizens hoped for the success of the presidency. Unfortunately, because Trump is not a career politician, some critics seem more eager to predict his downfall than support his efforts to succeed. This mindset only deepens national division.

While President Trump previously stated he would work toward ending the war in Ukraine, recent meetings with President Volodymyr Zelenskyy suggest that peace may take longer than hoped. Negotiations are ongoing, and the United States remains engaged diplomatically with both Ukraine and Russia.

Meanwhile, political stunts, such as Maryland Senator Chris Van Hollen traveling to El Salvador in an attempt to reverse the deportation of Abrego Garcia, a Maryland resident who was deported there, highlight some of the partisan theater that overshadows real progress.

Statements like those from Congressman Kweisi Mfume, who called for the arrest of Trump and Elon Musk, only serve to inflame tensions and distract from measurable achievements.

The national economy is showing resilience, outperforming many state economies, including Maryland’s. Instead of resisting federal leadership, states might benefit from adopting similar fiscal and regulatory strategies to enhance local growth and reduce deficits.

It seems at times that America has grown so used to dysfunction that progress feels unfamiliar — even unsettling. But this is a pivotal moment. If we can learn to embrace progress, reduce unnecessary political conflict and focus on real results, we can all share in a more prosperous and stable future.

Let us not fear success. Let us adapt to it, grow with it, and ensure that it reaches every corner of this great nation.

Christopher Anderson is a third-generation Baltimorean, a U.S. Coast Guard veteran and a community advocate. He is chairman of the Maryland Black Republican Council and a member of the Baltimore City Republican Central Committee. He has run for Congress and the Baltimore City Council.