Donald Trump’s return to the White House promises to be anything but understated. The 47th president has vowed to unleash a flurry of executive orders within hours of his swearing-in on Monday, targeting everything from immigration and trade to climate policy and diversity initiatives. Here’s what to expect from this potentially unprecedented legislative blitz.
Immigration: deportations, border policies, and birthright citizenship
Trump’s hardline immigration stance is set to dominate his early hours back in office. Among the key initiatives:
- Mass deportations: Trump has pledged to launch “the largest deportation program in American history,” reportedly calling on military assistance to secure the southern border. This effort faces staggering logistical, legal, and financial challenges.
- End birthright citizenship: Trump has long decried the 150-year-old constitutional right granting U.S. citizenship to anyone born on American soil. Experts point out, however, that eliminating it would require constitutional amendments far beyond the scope of executive orders.
- Remain in Mexico: A revival of Trump’s controversial policy, which forces asylum seekers to stay in Mexico while awaiting U.S. immigration hearings.
- Health-related border closures: Leveraging a 1944 law, Trump may seek to close the southern border under the guise of public health emergencies.
Economy: tariffs and a potential “Bitcoin stockpile”
Trump’s economic strategy includes sweeping protectionist measures and a bold push into cryptocurrency:
- Universal tariffs: Proposals include a 10% tariff on all imports and significant surcharges on goods from Mexico, Canada, and China. These moves could drive up consumer costs and potentially trigger retaliatory actions from trading partners.
- National Bitcoin reserve: Trump has floated the idea of creating a federal Bitcoin stockpile, framing it as a “permanent national asset.”
Climate: drilling and Paris Agreement withdrawal
Trump is poised to undo much of his predecessor’s climate agenda:
- “Drill, baby, drill”: Expect executive orders reopening federal lands and offshore areas to drilling, as well as scrapping electric vehicle mandates.
- Paris Agreement exit: Trump aims to pull the U.S. out of the landmark global climate accord once again, reversing Joe Biden’s reentry in 2021.
Social issues: diversity programs, abortion, and transgender policies
Trump’s return signals a stark shift in federal policy regarding social issues:
- DEI initiatives: An executive order is expected to block federal funding for diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs in schools and institutions.
- Abortion restrictions: Trump plans to reinstate the “Mexico City policy,” banning federal funding for international groups that discuss abortion.
- Transgender rights: Among his most publicized promises is a ban on transgender women competing in women’s sports.
TikTok: a surprising pivot
In a sharp reversal, Trump plans to issue an executive order granting TikTok more time to find a U.S.-based partner. Once a vocal critic of the app, Trump now highlights its campaign reach as a key asset.
Foreign policy: Ukraine, Cuba, and Venezuela
Trump has teased swift moves on the international stage:
- Ending the Ukraine war: Though specifics remain murky, Trump insists he can broker peace within six months.
- Reinstating sanctions: Likely targets include Cuba and Venezuela, aiming to undo Biden-era policy shifts.
Pardons for January 6 rioters
Hundreds of individuals convicted for their roles in the Capitol riot are expected to receive pardons, a move Trump hinted at during his pre-inauguration rally. Critics argue this could inflame divisions and undermine accountability.
Classified documents: a peek behind the curtain
Trump has vowed to declassify records related to the assassinations of John F. Kennedy, Robert Kennedy, and Martin Luther King Jr., a move that could reignite conspiracy theories.
The challenges ahead
While Trump’s planned orders align with his America First agenda, the scope and volume are unprecedented. Many directives face legal challenges, and their implementation could strain federal resources. As the world watches, Trump’s promises to “make heads spin” could transform his presidency into one of the most polarizing in U.S. history.