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Eight years ago, a significant movement took shape, known as The Resistance. As the implications of the incoming Trump administration started to become clear, a varied coalition formed across the nation and beyond. This group, which comprised feminists, scientists, immigration advocates, and some traditional Republicans, found common ground in their shared concerns. Remarkably, on Donald Trump’s first full day in office, this coalition orchestrated a nationwide protest of unprecedented proportions.

Fast forward to today, and the initial fervor in the face of a new wave of Trumpism seems to have significantly waned. The once-popular pink hats that became a symbol of resistance are no longer as trendy. Although grassroots organizing remains effective, it seems to lack the excitement that characterized its earlier days. The intersectionality that once united those concerned about threats to women’s rights, potential Muslim bans, or damage to America’s global standing appears to have diminished. The recent announcement that Special Counsel Jack Smith would drop both federal cases against Trump barely stirred a reaction, eliciting nothing more than a collective sigh.

Critics of Trump do not intend to stay silent during his second inauguration on January 20, but the overall response appears more muted this time around. The Women’s March is scheduled for January 18 in Washington, D.C., while Rev. Al Sharpton is planning his own rally to counteract Trump’s inauguration. Yet, it’s difficult to imagine any opposition event generating as much impact as in the past—much less contesting the prevailing sentiment of an inevitable Trump comeback that many now feel.

There’s a noticeable sense of resignation among those who once actively opposed Trump’s presidency. This lack of enthusiasm has been an overlooked factor in the recent election cycle. As TIME’s Charlotte Alter noted back in March—March!—this period was labeled The Dread Election. President Joe Biden’s challenges and his abrupt withdrawal from re-nomination efforts only added to these worries, although the rising interest in Kamala Harris’ potential ascendance provided a glimmer of hope for both Democrats and anti-Trump Republicans. By the time Election Day arrived, there was a general desire simply to learn the outcome.

Ultimately, Trump emerged victorious, broadening his appeal across various demographics in a nail-biting popular vote that was among the closest seen in over a century. Democratic strategists are now left to ponder the party’s future, while the rest of the country watches closely. The upcoming Republican administration is poised to govern for the next four years, maintaining a slim grip on Congress for at least the initial two.

The prevalent sense of resignation among Trump’s detractors isn’t merely a figment of the imagination. Recent polling from Pew highlights that most Americans seem ready for a second Trump term. About half of the population—53%—express approval of the President-elect’s future plans, while 46% stand opposed. Although only 41% believe Trump can unite the country and 45% trust him on abortion issues, he compensates with a 59% approval rating concerning economic matters and 53% on immigration. Merely 42% consider him honest, 37% view him as even-tempered, and just 34% see him as a role model.

In simple terms: Americans may not have a strong affection for Trump, but many are willing to give him a chance—at least for now—concerning the demanding role of the presidency. A notable 68% of Americans told Pew they were not surprised by Trump’s electoral comeback, including 58% of Democrats.

The data also indicates a softening of negative sentiments towards him. Following his victory in 2016, only 36% of Americans reported feeling positively towards Trump. After his loss in 2020, that number fell to 34%. Currently, it has risen to 43%, according to Pew’s findings.

Additionally, a Morning Consult poll revealed that approximately one-third (32%) of voters described their feelings after Trump’s victory as “exhausted.” This sentiment climbs to 38% among women—the key demographic behind recent protests against Trump—and exceeds 54% among Democrats.

This backdrop sheds light on why the enthusiasm associated with The Resistance seems to have faded today, even as Trump pledges to pursue his agenda with renewed vigor. Organizations such as Democracy Forward, Public Citizen, and Indivisible are diligently working to address the gaps that remain, but the weariness is evident. Good-government groups like the Partnership for Public Service strive to uphold norms and standards, yet it often feels like a fruitless battle given Trump’s incoming team of unconventional figures.

To be frank, this post-election phase can be described as a rather uneventful period in politics. The most significant threats of the election season have been averted; large-scale protests have not erupted, violent disputes over ballots have largely been absent, and denialism has mostly given way to factual discourse. During this transition, it’s challenging to ignite and sustain the urgency that was so prevalent eight years ago—especially when the nation has witnessed Trump’s disregard for norms, his commitment to following through on campaign threats, and his capacity to dismantle opposition with little concern for the consequences. Among the millions of Americans bracing for what lies ahead, many feel too fatigued to muster the outrage once again.

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