Vision of Donald Trump for a Second Term: Immigration, Trade, and Increasing Presidential Authority

Donald Trump has presented a broad agenda that deviates from his policies of first term as he approaches a possible second administration. This aspirational program emphasizes improvements in federal government, a stricter immigration policy, and a reassertion of American interests on the world scene. Though lacking in operational details, Trump's ideas—which touch on civil rights, trade, and military policy—show a mix of classic conservatism with populist overtones.

Nov 8, 2024 - 08:05
Vision of Donald Trump for a Second Term: Immigration, Trade, and Increasing Presidential Authority

Donald Trump has presented a broad agenda that deviates from his policies of first term as he approaches a possible second administration. This aspirational program emphasizes improvements in federal government, a stricter immigration policy, and a reassertion of American interests on the world scene. Though lacking in operational details, Trump's ideas—which touch on civil rights, trade, and military policy—show a mix of classic conservatism with populist overtones.

 
Trump's 2016 rallying cry, "Build the wall!" has changed to become a dedication to "the largest mass deportation program in history." Though he has few specifics on how such a broad program may be implemented, he supports employing the National Guard in conjunction with local law enforcement in attempts to solve illegal immigration. Along with these policies, Trump suggests renouncing birthright citizenship, a decision that would call for constitutional changes and would create major legal challenges. Beyond only limiting illegal access, he says reintroducing the "Remain in Mexico" policy, barring visitors from some countries, and increasing ideological inspections will help to completely lower immigration.

Abortion and Government Policies
After the Supreme Court reversed Roe v. Wade, Trump has adopted a less firm position on abortion than in his past tenure. Framing the matter as one now legitimately under state jurisdiction, he has promised to reject any federal abortion ban reaching his desk. This runs counter to the continuous legal battles anti-abortion campaigners engage in, especially surrounding access to the widely used abortion drug mifepristone. Given federal direction on reproductive healthcare under review, it is uncertain whether Trump will oppose state-level limitations or act to guarantee access during a crisis.

Tax Reform: Worker Incentives and Corporate Cuts
Particularly by cutting corporation tax rates to 15% and eliminating tax increases instituted under President Joe Biden, Trump seeks to prolong the tax cuts carried out during his first administration. Measures he says would help working- and middle-class Americans include exempting tips, Social Security salaries, and overtime from income tax. Although this strategy appeals to service workers, it could unintentionally let higher earners reclassify some income as "tips," therefore casting doubt on the overall effects of the program.

Trade Policy: American Protectionism and Tariffs
Trump's attitude to international trade shows mistrust of world markets, pledging hefty tariffs on foreign goods, maybe ranging from 10% to 20%. He promises to limit Chinese investments in vital infrastructure and has committed himself to resurrect an executive order giving American-made drugs top priority. Though the possible effects on consumer pricing are yet unknown, this policy orientation marks a retreat from globalization and tries to improve economic security by "Made in America" measures.

LGBTQ Protections, DEI, and Civil Rights
Trump has shown a clear departure from present federal goals by indicating intentions to reduce diversity, equality, and inclusion (DEI) activities across federal agencies. By cutting Title IX inclusion rules adopted under the Biden administration, he hopes to limit LGBTQ protections and stop federal backing for what he refers to as "inappropriate racial, sexual, or political content" in schools. Civil rights experts who warn of possible legal issues over protections for minority and LGBTQ groups have voiced worries about this direction.

Increasing Presidential Authority and Adjusting Federal Workforce
Trump wants a federal government with a more consolidated executive authority, including ideas to simplify federal employment. Reclassifying jobs outside of civil service protections is part of his idea, which would probably be challenged by federal employee unions since it makes it simpler to dismiss government workers. Trump has also suggested increasing executive control over government expenditure, implying that the president has the authority to choose whether to totally support initiatives approved by Congress. Legal experts advise this could cause constitutional disputes on budgetary control.

Education: Aiming for "Woke" Curriculum
Trump has expressed strong resistance to what he defines as "woke" content in school, suggesting to abolish the Department of school and advocate government curriculum review. He also intends to tax endowments of private universities he says are promoting a "Marxist" philosophy. Though specifics of his alternative, the "American Academy," which offers a tuition-free, online education alternative to conventional college programs, are few.

Social Welfare and Social Security: Health
Trump has reiterated support for Medicare and Social Security, pledging to defend these programs despite his planned tax exemption on some kinds of income, which would influence their budget. Though he hasn't yet offered a thorough replacement plan, he is still a strong opponent of the Affordable Care Act (ACA) and pledges to get it repealed. Emphasizing a "freedom" approach to medical decisions, his recent affiliation with Robert F. Kennedy Jr., well-known for dubious opinions on vaccines, points to a possible change in health policy goals.

Policy of Foreign Affairs: "America First" Reviewed again
Reflecting his "America First," Trump's foreign policy blends military expansion with a reduced worldwide engagement. Trump has often attacked NATO and lauded authoritarian leaders like Viktor Orbán of Hungary and Vladimir Putin of Russia while asking for enhanced defense capability. Though he promises to swiftly address issues like the Russia-Ukraine crisis without stating how, his isolationist posture begs concerns regarding the future of U.S. obligations to allies.

In essence, a high-stakes vision with uncertain outcomes.
Trump's plan is distinguished by a dedication to express American interests, especially by means of protectionist trade policies, a rebuilt immigration system, and more presidential power. Legal fights, possible Congress opposition, and popular acceptance of his audacious agenda will all determine if this vision comes to pass. With Trump positioned for a second term, the United States finds itself at a crossroads with his ideas threatening long-standing norms in civil rights, commerce, and government.