Anti-Trump Resistance Gains Gradual Momentum as Political and Legal Pressures Mount

Feb 13, 2026: US President Donald Trump, who once asserted that he had the authority to do “whatever I want as president,” is beginning to face mounting resistance from multiple fronts during his second term. 

While he continues to wield significant executive power, a series of legal setbacks, political defections, public protests and economic realities suggest that opposition to his agenda is gradually intensifying.

Federal Withdrawal from Minnesota Signals Political Pressure

One of the most visible reversals came this week in Minnesota. Border enforcement chief Tom Homan confirmed the withdrawal of thousands of federal officers who had been deployed to the state as part of a sweeping deportation crackdown. 

Homan maintained that the operation had achieved its objectives, citing more than 4,000 arrests nationwide, and insisted that immigration enforcement efforts would continue.

However, the decision to scale back operations followed sustained protests and public outrage over the fatal daytime shootings of two Americans, Renee Good and Alex Pretti. The incidents triggered widespread criticism and raised questions about the sustainability of the federal surge.

Minnesota Governor Tim Walz described the federal presence as an “unprecedented invasion” and argued that civic opposition had forced Washington to reconsider. 

He said the confrontation had caused economic disruption and social strain, framing the withdrawal as evidence that organized resistance can influence federal policy.

Courts Act as a Check on Executive Power

Legal challenges have emerged as another constraint on the administration. In Washington, a federal judge dismissed Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth’s attempt to pursue “sedition” allegations against retired Navy captain and Democratic Senator Mark Kelly of Arizona.

The ruling followed a separate decision by a grand jury that declined to approve an indictment against Kelly and five other Democratic lawmakers over a video advising troops to refuse unlawful orders. 

Kelly pledged to continue opposing what he described as political intimidation, while the administration indicated it would appeal the court’s decision.

Several administration initiatives have also been slowed or blocked in federal courts, including by judges appointed by Republican presidents, underscoring the judiciary’s ongoing role in balancing executive authority.

Republican Defections Expose Party Divisions

Divisions within the Republican Party have become more visible in Congress. In the closely divided House of Representatives, six Republicans joined Democrats in voting to repeal the president’s tariffs on Canada. Three additional GOP members sided with Democrats to prevent House Speaker Mike Johnson from blocking future tariff votes.

The votes reflect growing concern among some lawmakers about the economic impact of the president’s trade policies, particularly on farmers and industrial workers in their districts. 

Some Republicans defended their stance as consistent with constitutional principles and the interests of their constituents.

The debate followed renewed controversy over the Justice Department’s release of files related to financier Jeffrey Epstein, adding to political tensions within the party.

Public Opinion and Midterm Calculations

Trump’s approval rating remains under pressure. According to a CNN average of national polls, his approval stands at 39%. Political analysts note that second-term presidents often experience declining influence as midterm elections approach.

With congressional elections looming in November, some Republican lawmakers may weigh the political risks of aligning closely with the White House if national polling trends remain unfavorable.

Economic Realities Challenge Trade Strategy

Economic data could further shape the political debate. A recent Federal Reserve Bank of New York report found that US businesses and consumers absorbed nearly 90% of the cost of last year’s tariffs, challenging claims that such policies primarily burden foreign exporters.

If rising costs continue to affect households and industries, trade policy may become a decisive issue in the upcoming elections.

International and Institutional Resistance

Beyond domestic politics, international allies are reassessing their approach to Washington. Ahead of the Munich Security Conference, a policy report described Trump as a disruptive force in global affairs, reflecting concerns among US partners.

At home, Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell has resisted repeated calls from the president to lower interest rates, reinforcing the independence of the central bank. 

In the cultural sector, some artists have boycotted events at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts following leadership changes.

Trump Retains Significant Executive Authority

Despite these challenges, Trump continues to exercise broad presidential powers. He recently moved to revoke the Environmental Protection Agency’s authority under a key Obama-era determination regarding greenhouse gases, a step likely to reshape federal climate policy.

The dismissal of antitrust chief Abigail Slater has also sparked debate over corporate oversight and regulatory enforcement.

In foreign policy, the president retains extensive authority as commander-in-chief, demonstrated by recent decisive actions abroad.

Resistance Growing, but Presidency Remains Strong

While critics argue that opposition is becoming more coordinated, Trump’s hold over his political base remains strong. He has warned Republican lawmakers that opposing his tariff policies could carry political consequences.

For now, the president maintains significant institutional power. However, recent court rulings, congressional defections and economic pressures suggest that traditional checks and balances remain active. Whether these incremental shifts evolve into a broader political realignment may become clearer in the months ahead.