On June 16th, exactly ten years ago, Donald Trump descended the golden escalator at Trump Tower and declared his bid for the presidency. What many initially saw as a publicity stunt quickly evolved into a seismic shift in American politics. With bold rhetoric on immigration and a defiant message of “Make America Great Again,” Trump captured the frustrations of millions of Americans. Despite entering the race as an outsider with overwhelmingly negative polling numbers, he surged ahead, defeating political veterans like Jeb Bush and Ted Cruz.

Today, Trump is serving his second term as President of the United States. His journey has been anything but conventional. From surviving impeachments and investigations to facing mass protests and even an assassination attempt, Trump has proven to be a political survivor. Supporters praise his strength, while critics fear what they describe as a slide toward authoritarianism.

Immigration remains at the center of his policy agenda. Just last night, Trump ordered ICE to expand deportation efforts in cities like Los Angeles and New York, reinforcing a stance that echoes his original campaign. Interestingly, he also suggested he would exempt undocumented workers in agriculture and hospitality—an apparent nod to economic realities.

Despite a divided nation, Trump’s grip on his base remains strong. Whether viewed as a populist savior or a divisive figure, Trump’s legacy is undeniable. Ten years after that infamous escalator moment, he still commands the national stage with the same force and controversy that launched his rise. Love him or loathe him, Donald Trump changed the game—and the game is still his.