Today, 20th January 2025, Donald Trump will be inaugurated as the 47th President of the United States, marking a historic comeback after a tumultuous political journey.
This inauguration, marking his second, non-consecutive term, comes at a time of domestic divisions and global uncertainties, with Trump poised to implement sweeping changes to both U.S. policies and its role on the world stage.
Originally planned for the National Mall, the ceremony has been moved indoors to the Capitol Rotunda due to an unprecedented cold front sweeping across Washington, D.C. Performances by Carrie Underwood singing “America the Beautiful” and the Village People aim to cater to both patriotic sentiments and Trump’s loyal base. Numerous foreign world leaders including Bilawal Bhutto Zardari will be attending the ceremony. Outgoing President Joe Biden will participate in the ceremonial transfer of power, underscoring the enduring tradition of peaceful transitions despite the political tensions of recent years.
Trump’s Day One Promises
In the days leading up to his inauguration, Trump has wasted no time laying out an ambitious and polarizing agenda. At a rally in Washington, D.C., he detailed several executive orders and policy changes he plans to enact immediately upon taking office.
Immigration Overhaul & Mass Deportation
One of Trump’s first actions will target immigration. He plans to reinstate and expand policies from his first term, including strict measures against illegal immigration. Mass deportations are expected, and he has pledged to dismantle protections for undocumented immigrants brought to the U.S. as children. Additionally, Trump aims to reintroduce his controversial “Muslim Ban” , restricting travellers from several muslim countries and tightening border security with enhanced technology and manpower.
Economic Policies and Deregulations
Trump’s economic agenda includes sweeping tax reforms aimed at benefiting corporations and wealthier Americans while offering some relief to working-class taxpayers. He plans to increase tariffs on imports, particularly targeting China, which he has frequently accused of unfair trade practices.
Deregulation is another cornerstone of his plans. Trump has pledged to significantly reduce environmental regulations, expand fossil fuel production, and eliminate subsidies for renewable energy projects.
Restricting US Citizenship
One executive order Trump is considering for his first day back in the White House would seek to restrict who is eligible for US citizenship, focusing on restricting citizenship of children born outside the US.
Education and Federal Agency Reforms
Trump has taken aim at the Department of Education, vowing to eliminate it entirely. He plans to replace traditional federal education programs with what he calls an “American Online Academy,” a nationalized online education platform. Additionally, he intends to enforce merit-based pay for teachers and tax private university endowments to fund educational initiatives.
On a broader level, Trump has promised to reduce the size of the federal government by consolidating agencies and granting the president greater control over federal budgets. He has also hinted at reforms that could challenge the Federal Reserve’s independence, potentially altering the dynamics of monetary policy in the U.S.
Gaza Ceasefire and Trump’s Approach to TikTok
In the international arena, Trump is expected to address the fragile Gaza ceasefire, which was recently brokered by international mediators after months of escalating violence between Israel and Palestinian groups. Trump has consistently positioned himself as a staunch ally of Israel, and his return to office may see increased military aid and diplomatic backing for Israeli policies. While his administration is likely to frame this as reinforcing U.S. support for its closest Middle Eastern ally, critics argue it could undermine efforts to achieve long-term peace in the region and exacerbate tensions with Palestinians.
Domestically, Trump is anticipated to revisit the controversy surrounding TikTok. Recent reports indicate that Trump now plans to bring TikTok back under stricter U.S. ownership regulations. By mandating that the platform be fully acquired by a U.S.-based company, Trump aims to safeguard user data while maintaining TikTok’s presence in the American market. This decision aligns with his broader goal of asserting U.S. dominance in the tech space and reducing reliance on Chinese technology, while also catering to TikTok’s massive user base of younger voters.
Healthcare and Social Policies
Trump is expected to renew efforts to repeal the Affordable Care Act, claiming it has failed to deliver affordable healthcare to Americans. He is instead advocating for a market-driven healthcare system with fewer regulations. Socially, his administration will likely roll back protections for LGBTQ+ individuals and focus on what Trump describes as “traditional family values”, cutting back on federal funding from schools and colleges that promote “critical race theory, and other inappropriate racial, sexual or political content”.
Global Implications of Trump’s Agenda
Trump’s return to office is expected to dramatically alter the global political landscape. His “America First” doctrine, which prioritizes national interests over international cooperation, will likely strain alliances and disrupt existing trade agreements. Trump’s plan to expand tariffs on Chinese imports and restrict Chinese ownership of U.S. properties signals the continuation of his adversarial stance toward Beijing.
He has also voiced skepticism about NATO, labeling it as an outdated organization that benefits Europe more than the United States. Trump may push for reduced U.S. involvement in NATO or demand increased contributions from member states. His administration’s critical stance on climate change policies could further isolate the U.S. from global environmental agreements and initiatives.
Additionally, Trump’s overt support for authoritarian leaders, such as Russia’s Vladimir Putin, has raised concerns among allies. This approach may embolden autocratic regimes while diminishing America’s traditional role as a global advocate for democracy and human rights.
What To Expect In The Days Ahead
As Trump takes office, his administration will likely focus on delivering immediate and visible changes to solidify his support base.
Globally, his leadership style and policy decisions will test the resilience of international alliances and challenge the status quo. Whether his approach leads to stronger national security and economic growth, or greater divisions at home and abroad, remains to be seen.
Donald Trump’s inauguration marks not just the beginning of a new term but a decisive chapter in U.S. and global politics. The world will be watching closely as his administration shapes the future of the nation and its role on the international stage.
