By Huiyan Li, Athan Yanos
WASHINGTON–Following the 100th day of Donald Trump’s second term as president, polls showed that Americans were increasingly worried about their economic future.
On Day 101, two Medill reporters set out across neighborhoods in the D.C.-Maryland-Virginia (DMV) area to hear directly from residents about their concerns or hopes about the economy.
Interviewees expressed mixed views on Trump’s tariffs. While some said the policies have hurt their businesses or personal finances, others supported the effort to bring manufacturing jobs back for long-term gain.
In Takoma Park, Maryland, we met hairdresser Jody Raml, who said nearly 70% of her clients—mostly federal workers—had been laid off.
“They’re like, ‘I’m sitting in your chair because I still need a haircut for interviews. And I don’t know when I’m going to be able to afford to come back,’” Raml said.
Even the wealthiest neighborhoods haven’t been spared. In Loudoun County, Virginia, an employee at an aesthetic medical spa told us business has dropped sharply as fewer clients can afford luxury services amid job cuts.
Watch our video to learn more.