Why Government Corruption Has Boomed in Trump’s Second Term
During Trump's second term, government corruption has intensified as ethical boundaries erode and public outrage wanes. Unlike in his first term, when backlash forced Trump to abandon plans to host the G7 at his Doral resort, similar actions now draw little criticism. The administration routinely approves payouts to allies, grants pardons to donors, and advances business interests domestically and abroad without significant opposition. Observers argue this reflects a new norm of shameless profiteering unprecedented in U.S. history.
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The Atlantic DailyWhy Government Corruption Has Boomed in Trump’s Second TermThe president is no longer intimidated by backlash. By David A. GrahamCaryn Levy / PGA Tour / GettyApril 28, 2026, 6:17 PM ET ShareSave This is an edition of The Atlantic Daily, a newsletter that guides you through the biggest stories of the day, helps you discover new ideas, and recommends the best in culture. Sign up for it here.Seven years ago, during a marginally more innocent time, the Trump administration announced plans to hold the 2020 G7 summit at Donald Trump’s resort in Doral, Florida. The backlash was fierce, and somehow the then–Acting White House Chief of Staff Mick Mulvaney’s dismissive attitude—“Get over it”—failed to quell concerns, including among Republicans.
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