This piece is a segment of The D.C. Brief, TIME’s political newsletter. Sign up here to receive updates like this delivered straight to your inbox.
Eight years ago, a significant movement emerged, known as The Resistance. As the implications of the incoming Trump administration became clearer both nationally and worldwide, an eclectic coalition came together. This group comprised feminists, scientists, immigration advocates, and even traditional Republicans, all uniting in their shared concerns. On the very first full day of Donald Trump’s presidency, this coalition organized an unprecedented nationwide protest.
Fast forward to today, and that initial urgency seems to have diminished in the face of a renewed wave of Trumpism. The once-popular pink hats associated with resistance have lost their appeal as a fashion statement. While grassroots organizing continues to exist, its momentum has noticeably waned. The intersectional solidarity that once united people worried about threats to women’s rights, potential Muslim bans, or the tarnishing of America’s global image has weakened. The recent announcement from Special Counsel Jack Smith, regarding the dismissal of federal cases against Trump, barely stirred more than a collective sigh among many.
Critics of Trump do not intend to remain quiet during his second inauguration on January 20; however, the overall response appears more muted this time around. The Women’s March is scheduled for January 18 in Washington, D.C., alongside a rally organized by Rev. Al Sharpton to counter Trump’s inauguration. Still, it’s hard to envision any opposition event making a substantial impact, especially given the prevailing sense that a Trump resurgence feels inevitable to many.
There’s a notable air of resignation among those who once fervently opposed Trump’s presidency. This lack of enthusiasm has been an overlooked element of the recent election cycle. As TIME’s Charlotte Alter pointed out back in March—March!—the term “The Dread Election” was coined. President Joe Biden’s ongoing struggles and abrupt halting of his re-nomination efforts did little to alleviate these anxieties, although the rising interest in Kamala Harris’ potential elevation offered a flicker of hope for both Democrats and anti-Trump Republicans. By the time Election Day rolled around, there was a shared desire just to know the outcome.
Ultimately, Trump emerged victorious, broadening his appeal across diverse demographics in a nail-biting popular vote that was among the closest seen in over a century. Democratic strategists are currently wrestling with the future of the party, while the nation watches closely. The incoming Republican administration is poised to govern for the next four years, maintaining narrow control of Congress for at least the first two.
The widespread resignation among Trump’s critics is not merely a figment of imagination. Recent polling from Pew reveals that a majority of Americans are bracing themselves for a second Trump term. About half—53%—express approval of the President-elect’s plans, while 46% are opposed. Although only 41% believe Trump can unify the nation and 45% trust him regarding abortion policy, he enjoys a 59% approval rating on economic issues and 53% on immigration. Meanwhile, only 42% view him as honest, 37% see him as even-tempered, and just 34% consider him a role model.
In simple terms: Americans might not have a strong affection for Trump, but many are willing to give him the benefit of the doubt—at least for now—concerning the demanding responsibilities of the presidency. A significant 68% of Americans indicated to Pew that they were not surprised by Trump’s electoral success, including 58% of Democrats.
The data also indicates a softening of negative feelings toward him. After his 2016 victory, only 36% of Americans reported having warm feelings toward Trump. After his 2020 loss, that number dipped to 34%, but it has now risen to 43%, according to Pew’s findings.
Moreover, a Morning Consult poll revealed that about one-third (32%) of voters described their feelings after Trump’s victory as “exhausted.” This sentiment is even more pronounced among women—the driving force behind recent protests against Trump—reaching 38%, and exceeds 54% among Democrats.
This backdrop offers insight into why the enthusiasm surrounding The Resistance seems somewhat diminished today, even as Trump pledges to pursue his agenda with more vigor than during his previous term. Organizations like Democracy Forward, Public Citizen, and Indivisible continue to strive to address these gaps, but the fatigue is palpable. Good-government groups, such as the Partnership For Public Service, are working to uphold democratic norms and standards, yet sometimes it feels like a futile pursuit given Trump’s incoming team of unconventional figures.
To be blunt, this post-election period can be characterized as a rather uninspiring chapter in politics. The most significant threats of the election season have been avoided; large-scale protests did not erupt, violent disputes over ballots were largely absent, and denialism has largely been replaced by facts. During this transitional phase, it’s challenging to ignite and maintain the urgency that characterized eight years ago—especially after witnessing how Trump disregards norms, follows through on his campaign threats, and dismantles opposition without concern for the consequences. Among the millions of Americans bracing for what’s ahead, most feel too fatigued to summon the necessary outrage once more.
Stay informed about the critical issues in Washington. Sign up for the D.C. Brief newsletter.
