Donald Trump’s policies continue to exert a corrosive effect on critical American institutions, including universities, the NIH, CDC, and NASA. His ongoing rhetoric and influence within the Republican Party foster an environment of hostility toward science, education, and expertise. Public health agencies like the CDC and NIH remain under political scrutiny, and trust in these organizations is eroded by conspiracy theories and misinformation that flourished during his administration and persist today. Universities are regularly framed by Trump and his allies as breeding grounds for “wokeness” and liberal indoctrination, leading to attacks on academic freedom and reduced public investment in higher education. This climate of suspicion weakens America’s ability to generate the research and talent that have long underpinned its global leadership.

The impact on scientific and exploratory institutions like NASA is similarly troubling. While some missions continue, the politicization of space policy—such as emphasizing militarization over scientific cooperation—undermines the U.S.’s traditional role as a global convener in space exploration. Trump’s downplaying of climate change and withdrawal from international climate initiatives continue to ripple through federal research agencies, restricting their capacity to collaborate globally and to lead in critical scientific domains. By casting doubt on climate science and limiting environmental regulation, the U.S. cedes leadership in one of the 21st century’s most defining global challenges to nations more committed to sustainability and innovation.

Trump’s foreign policy legacy further weakens America’s global standing. His ongoing influence in U.S. politics, including among presidential contenders and sitting lawmakers, sustains an “America First” ideology that prioritizes isolationism and transactional diplomacy. Longstanding alliances such as NATO and relationships with key democratic partners remain strained. The withdrawal from global agreements like the Paris Climate Accord and the Iran nuclear deal continues to signal unreliability, making allies wary of U.S. commitments even under new administrations. This reputational damage invites strategic competitors like China and Russia to fill the void, shifting the global balance of power away from U.S.-led institutions and norms.

Together, the dismantling of domestic institutions and the erosion of international alliances reflect a broader decline in American soft power. By undermining trust in science, education, diplomacy, and multilateralism, Trump’s policies reduce the appeal and influence of American values abroad. This weakening of both internal capacity and external credibility limits the United States’ ability to respond to global challenges, shape international norms, and inspire cooperation. In a world increasingly defined by technological competition, climate threats, and rising authoritarianism, the continued undermining of American institutions places not just U.S. leadership—but global stability—at risk.