Washington DC: As Donald Trump prepares to return to the White House, he has outlined a series of ambitious actions aimed at reshaping the nation’s path. Backed by a Republican-controlled Senate, Trump is set to tackle issues from immigration and economic reform to foreign policy and energy independence.
Trump confidently declared his commitment to “Promises made, promises kept.” Trump has put forth seven bold moves that signal his intentions, though questions remain about how he will achieve these aims.
Here are seven major actions Trump says he will prioritize as president;
Mass Deportations and Border Wall Completion
Trump has pledged unprecedented levels of deportation, promising the largest mass deportations of undocumented migrants in U.S. history. He also intends to complete the border wall with Mexico, begun in his first term. Although illegal crossings hit record highs under the Biden administration before dipping in 2024, experts note that mass deportations face significant legal and logistical hurdles that could impact economic growth.
Economic Overhaul: Taxes and Tariffs
Exit polls suggest the economy was a priority for voters. Trump has vowed to “end inflation” but faces limited powers to directly control prices. His economic plans include sweeping tax cuts, like making tips tax-free, abolishing Social Security taxes, and reducing corporate taxes. Additionally, he proposes new tariffs, especially a 10% rate on most imports, with up to 60% on Chinese goods, a move some economists caution could drive up prices for consumers.
Rolling Back Climate Regulations
Trump plans to dismantle environmental protections, similar to his first term, and exit Biden’s clean energy initiatives. He has vowed to expand fossil fuel production and criticized electric vehicles, pledging to boost U.S. oil drilling, including in areas like the Arctic. Analysts, however, are skeptical about whether this would significantly lower energy costs.
Ending the War
Trump has promised to end U.S. involvement in Ukraine’s war with Russia, claiming he could broker peace within 24 hours. While he has not detailed potential compromises, he has criticized the financial aid given to Ukraine. Trump also advocates disengagement from foreign conflicts, pressing for an end to Israel’s Gaza operation while promising no specifics on resolving regional tensions.
No Abortion Ban
Although some supporters expected otherwise, Trump has clarified he would not sign a national abortion ban, a position that contrasts with his conservative base. Since the Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade, states have taken divergent paths on reproductive rights, and Trump continues to argue for state-level decision-making, despite inconsistencies in his messaging.
Pardons for Convicts
Trump has indicated he would pardon select individuals convicted for their involvement in the January 6 Capitol riot, framing many as “political prisoners.” While he has acknowledged that some acted unlawfully, he argues that many were unjustly treated, drawing criticism over his handling of the riot’s legacy.
Action on Jack Smith
Trump has promised quick action against Special Counsel Jack Smith, who led probes into Trump’s attempts to challenge the 2020 election results and his handling of classified documents. Despite his own conviction in New York for falsifying records, Trump remains firm, calling Smith’s investigations politically driven.
Trump’s second term promises an intense policy agenda, though the path forward may be complicated by the complex legal, economic, and political landscape.
According to Steven Cheung, Trump Campaign Communications Director, President Joe Biden called Donald Trump to congratulate him on his victory and invited him to the White House to support a smooth transition. Trump welcomed the gesture and is looking forward to the meeting.
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