Washington D.C.: Trump’s Ambitious Plans for Day One of His Second Term
On what promises to be a monumental day in the annals of American politics, the incoming president is gearing up to take office once again, and he’s tossing the usual inauguration playbook right out the window. Instead of the typical ceremonial handoff filled with a few executive orders here and there, Trump is prepping a staggering plan to sign more than 100 executive orders on his very first day. That’s no small feat, considering the previous high was Joe Biden with just 17 executive orders back in 2021.
A New Era of Deportation?
Trump’s plans are ambitious indeed, starting with his promise of launching “the largest deportation program in American history.” He estimates that around 11 million undocumented migrants and asylum seekers currently reside in the U.S.—including a concerning 500,000 with criminal records. He aims to significantly surpass the Obama administration’s record by targeting not just serious criminals but long-term undocumented migrants without any criminal history. This is a significant pivot from previous practices and could lead to thousands of deportations almost instantly.
But he’s not stopping there; Trump plans to declare a national emergency at the border. He feels this could be achieved by utilizing Title 42, a public health emergency power, to restrict migrants. However, this might encounter roadblocks since only the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention can declare such emergencies. It’s a tricky game of chess that’ll require thoughtful moves.
Trade Impacts and Tariffs
On the economic front, Trump has publicly pledged to slap a hefty 25% tariff on imports from Canada and Mexico, his two largest trading partners. This is not just about trade—he’s linking these tariffs to drug trafficking concerns. However, he has opened the door for some negotiation, suggesting a reevaluation might be necessary if prices take a hit.
Reaction from Canada has been swift, with officials hinting that they’re prepared to retaliate, keeping their cards close to their chest until Trump makes his move. The last time such severe tariffs were imposed was back in **1930**, which many economists blame for worsening the Great Depression. The stakes are pretty high here!
Pardons, Energy, and Education Policies
Trump’s plans for day one also include diving into a massive review of pardons that could potentially impact thousands who are currently on the hook for various charges. He’s even said he’ll start his review within the first nine minutes of being back in the Oval Office—no pressure, right?
On the energy front, he’s looking at declaring a national energy emergency. This could expedite approvals for new drilling, pipelines, and even nuclear reactors. It’s a sharp contrast to the more environmental focus many policymakers have taken recently.
Then there’s education. Trump plans to cut federal funding for schools that teach “critical race theory” or maintain vaccine mandates, effectively weaponizing budget controls in the ongoing culture wars. He’s also promised to create a restitution fund for those who believe they’ve been harmed by federal equity policies.
Transgender Rights and Birthright Citizenship
In what many are calling the most extensive rollback of transgender rights in modern history, Trump has pledged to reinstate the military ban on transgender individuals and has plans to restrict their participation in sports. This move alone will affect a significant portion of the 1.6 million transgender Americans.
And let’s not overlook the potential changes to birthright citizenship. Trump aims to sign an executive order that could roll back the constitutional rights established under the 14th amendment. That’s a legal battle brewing waiting to happen!
Bitcoin and Clearing Out the ‘Deep State’
Trump also has his sights set on the future of cryptocurrency, with plans to create a U.S. Bitcoin strategic reserve alongside a newly appointed “cryptocurrency czar.” This step comes at a time when Bitcoin prices are hitting records, and it seems like he’s ready to embrace the digital currency with open arms.
Lastly, Trump has made broad promises to tackle the so-called deep state by revisiting a previous executive order that would simplify the dismissal of thousands of federal employees. This could alter the federal workforce structure dramatically, but it’s a move that’ll likely stir up a lot of opposition.
What Lies Ahead
As Trump gears up for his second term, the drama is palpable. Whether all of these ambitious plans will come to fruition or face legal challenges remains to be seen. But one thing is clear: he’s ready to make a splash on day one, and it’s sure to send ripples through every corner of American society.
