Responses Over Trump's First 100 Days In Office

A forum held Tuesday night at the Palm Springs Cultural Center drawing a crowd of around 150 people eager to reflect on the first 100 days of President Trump’s administration. Sponsored by The Center, the event served as a community check-in—especially for those impacted by national policy shifts around diversity, equity, and inclusion.

Lex Ortega, Chief Program Officer at The Center, emphasized the importance of creating a space for open dialogue. “We’re hoping to hear from our partners with the Human Rights Campaign and others about the initiatives being done to promote equality and fairness,” Ortega said. They noted that past forums during the election season helped attendees feel less isolated and more connected.

“There’s a sense of fear and uncertainty in marginalized communities right now,” Ortega added. “People need to know they’re not alone.”

The forum had a Q&A session and While some expressed concern over the administration's apparent efforts to dismantle diversity and inclusion programs—often disproportionately affecting LGBTQ+ individuals and communities of color—others praised President Trump for taking swift economic and regulatory action.

“I would like to see the price of gas and food continue to go down,” said Rolando Rodriguez who is a member of Latinos for America First. “He’s doing good for America, and in the long run, it’ll benefit the whole world.”

According to a recent Washington Post report, Trump’s approval rating after his first 100 days is the lowest of any modern president during that same period. Still, supporters pointed to achievements such as aggressive immigration policy enforcement, a focus on interest rate control, and the signing of 142 executive orders.

Ortega highlighted that the LGBTQ+ community, like the broader American public, holds a range of political beliefs. “We expect a spectrum of opinions,” they said. “The reality is that LGBTQ people exist on a political spectrum just like everyone else.” Attendees were encouraged to stay informed, engaged, and united across differences as the nation navigates a rapidly shifting political landscape. For more information tune into NBC Palm Springs.