January 20, 2025 marked the start of Donald J. Trump’s second term as President of the United States of America, being only the second president to serve two non-consecutive terms in office after Grover Cleveland. The results of the recent presidential election have sparked a wide range of responses both in and outside of the Scheck Hillel community.

“I think that some of the choices he made for his cabinet have been interesting, but I believe that on his own, he will make numerous improvements economically than on individual issues,” said Sahhar Azolay–a member of the senior class–when asked about her thoughts on Trump’s domestic policies.

“I think that now since he is president again, the country will be a safer place for the Jewish people, not only in colleges but also online when faced with the threat of antisemites,” added sophomore Shira Sager. “I also think that he will strengthen the economy, and this will help lower and middle class citizens who are in need.”

Aside from igniting contentious discussion amongst future voters, the president’s victory has also served a topic of interest among experienced adult voters.

“I have seen President Trump push for hostage release numerous times,” said social studies teacher Ms. Schulman when expressing her thoughts on Trump’s support for Israel, “and also say that he would like to put the war to an end immediately.”

Interviewees were also asked to share how they believed a Trump presidency would affect them directly as American citizens.

“At the moment, I am not sure how he [Trump] will affect me, however, I am affected by any policy that he will make,” stated history teacher Dr. Lawrie. “As an educator, I hope that he will put forward proposals to improve the education system either in the form of supporting public schools, or perhaps creating programs for public and private schools.”