Trump Vows Bold Moves
As Donald Trump returns to the Oval Office, the former president has laid out a sweeping agenda that promises to reshape the nation’s policies on various issues. From immigration and the economy to the war in Ukraine and climate change, Trump has unveiled a bold vision for his second term, vowing to fulfill his campaign promises.
In his victory speech, Trump declared, “I will govern by a simple motto: Promises made, promises kept. We’re going to keep our promises.” However, the road ahead may not be without obstacles, as experts warn that some of his proposed actions could face significant legal and logistical hurdles.
1. Deport undocumented migrants and border wall
One of Trump’s top priorities is to crack down on undocumented immigration, promising the “biggest mass deportations of illegal migrants in U.S. history.” He has also pledged to complete the construction of a wall along the southern border with Mexico, a project he began during his first term.
“The number of crossings at the U.S. southern border hit record levels at the end of last year during the Biden-Harris administration, before falling in 2024,” said experts. “Deportations on the scale promised by Trump would face huge legal and logistical challenges and could slow economic growth.”
2. Economy: Tax cuts, tariffs, and “end inflation”
Economic concerns were a driving force for voters, and Trump has promised to “end inflation” and deliver sweeping tax cuts, building on his overhaul from 2017. He has also proposed new tariffs of at least 10% on most foreign goods, aiming to reduce the trade deficit.
“Some economists have warned that such moves could push up prices for consumers,” highlighting the potential unintended consequences of Trump’s economic proposals.
3. Rollback climate regulations
Trump’s environmental agenda includes rolling back regulations, particularly in the automotive industry, and increasing the production of U.S. fossil fuels. He has vowed to “drill, drill, drill” on his first day in office, a move that could undermine the Biden administration’s efforts to transition to renewable energy sources.
“He wants to open areas such as the Arctic wilderness to oil drilling, which he argues would lower energy costs – though analysts are sceptical,” suggesting that Trump’s climate policies may face significant opposition and scrutiny.
4. Foreign policy: Ending the Ukraine war, supporting Israel
On the international stage, Trump has pledged to “end the conflict in Ukraine ‘within 24 hours’ through a negotiated deal.” However, experts warn that such a move could embolden Russian President Vladimir Putin and undermine U.S. support for Ukraine.
Regarding the conflict in Gaza, Trump has positioned himself as a staunch supporter of Israel, urging the American ally to “end its operation” and pledging to “end the related violence in Lebanon.”
5. No abortion ban
Contrary to the wishes of some of his supporters, Trump has said he will not sign into law a national abortion ban, instead allowing states to decide their own laws on the issue.
6. Free some Jan 6 rioters
Additionally, he has vowed to “free” some of those convicted of offenses during the January 6th, 2021, riot at the U.S. Capitol, reiterating his belief that many of them are “wrongfully imprisoned.”
7. Fire Special Counsel Jack Smith
Perhaps one of the most significant and controversial promises from Trump is his vow to sack “within two seconds” the veteran prosecutor leading the criminal investigations against him. Special Counsel Jack Smith has indicted Trump over alleged efforts to overturn the 2020 election and his alleged mishandling of classified documents.
As Trump prepares to return to the White House, the nation awaits to see how he will navigate the complex web of challenges and opposition he is likely to face in pursuing his ambitious agenda. With the fate of the country hanging in the balance, the next four years promise to be a turbulent and transformative period in American politics.