What to expect from Trump's (Second) First 100 Days with Axios Reporter Hans Nichols

·28 min·2 clips

Axios reporter Hans Nichols reveals what Trump's first week of executive orders signals for the next 100 days.

The episode begins with hosts Brian DeAngelis and Ilan Moy introducing guest Hans Nichols, an Axios political reporter who covered the Trump administration. Nichols notes the ambitious scope and speed of Trump's early executive orders, including actions on international tax through the OECD. He describes the return of 'chopper talk,' where Trump engages with reporters before Marine One flights, emphasizing the need for reporters to stay nimble. The conversation turns to nominations, focusing on Pete Hegseth's rescue through pressure on Senator Joni Ernst via MAGA primary threats in Iowa. Nichols discusses other contentious nominees like RFK Jr. and the role of Senator Bill Cassidy. On tariffs, Nichols explains Trump's hesitation due to inflationary risks and political calculations, referencing debates in the Biden administration. The hosts probe legislative challenges, with Nichols predicting a brick wall on tax cuts due to thin margins and potential 'Manchin-like' holdouts in the House. He touches on Trump's charm offensive with CEOs, noted at Davos, and the business community's shift. Nichols speculates on tipping points like immigration enforcement or unknown crises, comparing to Trump's first term and Biden's Afghanistan fallout. He concludes that Trump retains a loyal MAGA base but faces a divided country and economic uncertainties. The episode wraps with thanks and a promise to revisit in four years.

As heard by us

Hans Nichols measures Trump's first-week moves against the legal, political, and financial tests ahead.

What's at Stake treats Trump's opening week as a test of governing speed: a rush of executive orders, nominee work on Capitol Hill, and the larger question of what early motion can actually signal about the next 100 days.

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Why you'd press play

You want a sharper read on what Trump's first week back in office may signal for the next 100 days.

Read the full recommendation in PlayNext →

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