The Year of the Government's Collapse

In a series of unprecedented events during 2025, the federal government's structure was severely damaged, alongside the erosion of consumer protection measures.

The initial sign of the breakdown appeared just before the Inauguration Day ceremonies. Prior to this, Congress had decisively supported legislation demanding TikTok to sever ties with its Chinese parent company, or else face a ban.

The Supreme Court backed this decision unanimously, establishing a clear path: the president was to either grant TikTok an additional 90 days to finalize a deal, or impose an immediate ban.

However, no action was taken. President Joe Biden left the decision for his successor, Donald Trump. After a brief period of uncertainty when TikTok suspended U.S. operations, it reappeared online, crediting Trump for its continuity.

Nearly a year and several unauthorized extensions later, TikTok continued operations in the U.S. under its original Chinese ownership, contrary to warnings about national security threats. It only recently moved forward with plans to sell its U.S. division, aiming for a completion date in early 2026—substantially delayed from the initial deadline.

The government's inaction over TikTok's supposed risks was just one aspect of a faltering system. In March, a controversy unfolded around the use of an encrypted messaging app by Secretary of War Pete Hegseth—one not designed for secure communications.

This situation unfolded because a message from Trump’s national security advisor was mistakenly shared in that chat.

The most substantial governmental disruption came from Elon Musk’s ambitious project, which wreaked havoc throughout the bureaucratic machinery.

A historic 43-day shutdown ensued that disrupted essential services for millions, paralyzed air travel, and halted regulatory approvals. The chaos extended to a variety of sectors, including the Federal Communications Commission, where Chair Brendan Carr nearly revoked broadcast licenses over a comedian's controversial joke.

In the same vein, Immigration and Customs Enforcement enlisted assistance from unlikely partners such as Home Depot, redirecting vital resources from other law enforcement areas.

Further exacerbating the situation were the challenges presented by Musk's brainchild, which saw government analysts resigning or being dismissed as policies clashed with established practices. Formerly renowned services providing international aid were compromised.

Sensitive data concerning millions of Americans became at risk due to relaxed regulations, while the effectiveness of consumer protection agencies was diminished.

Despite such turmoil, moments of resilience emerged where judicial and legislative bodies showed signs of fortitude and integrity. Certain judges resisted administrative directives conflicting with the law, preventing several overreaches.

In Congress, a few voices questioned the transparency of operations concerning matters like the Epstein files and military interventions, often breaking party lines to endorse accountability.

Public opposition manifested in protests against policies perceived as heavy-handed, including the aggressive deportation stance leading to confrontations at Immigration and Customs Enforcement actions.

Technological experts rallied to prevent a mass exodus following the suspension of pay, underscoring the importance of retaining skilled personnel within the government.

As election tactics for the midterms intensify approaching 2026, the broken fragments of reform and missteps will be central to campaign rhetoric, with promises to mend the government’s fractures. It remains to be seen which leaders voters will trust to restore stability and strength.